Archive - Improving transparency of consumers' electricity charges

The Authority has published an updated paper setting out its decisions and reasons for the guidelines.

The Authority has published a paper setting out its decisions and reasons for the improving transparency of consumers' electricity charges project. 

The Authority considers that improving transparency of consumers’ electricity charges would promote its statutory objective of increasing competition in the retail market due to more engaged consumers. It would also improve consumers’ confidence in the market, which will improve regulatory stability and market durability.

The Authority has published draft guidelines for retailers’ and distributors’ communications about price changes with media and consumers.   

The Authority considers that adoption of these guidelines will benefit consumers by improving communication by retailers and distributors about the reasons for price changes. The Authority expects improved communication to reduce the potential for consumers’ confusion about the reasons for price changes, and to improve consumers’ confidence and level of engagement in the market. Improved consumer confidence and engagement is expected to promote retail competition and enhance the durability of the electricity market.  

Feedback on the draft guidelines was requested by 5pm on Tuesday 17 February 2015. 

The Authority held a workshop on Tuesday 10 February, to give parties an opportunity to ask questions and provide feedback about the draft guidelines. The Authority was particularly interested in obtaining feedback about the practical implications of the guidelines.