Review of the Authorisation and Exemption Framework
The Australian Energy Regulator has published a consultation issue paper titled Retail Authorisation and Exemption Review. Broadly, the Issues Paper considers the changing nature of the energy market, the risks posed by new products and services, and asks whether changes are needed to the Retail Authorisation and Exemption Framework. This is a major consultation that will have long-lasting ramifications for the energy market and consumers. It builds on the work of the Energy Security Board, the Australian Energy Market Commission (particularly in relation to embedded network regulation) and prior work by the AER.
When can an energy retailer change prices for Victorian small energy customers?
Clause 94 of the Energy Retail Code of Practice aims to provide small customers with certainty that tariffs payable under a market retail contract can only be increased by a retailer on a network tariff change date or otherwise as permitted by Clause 94.
Managing the compliance of contractors
In many industries, a principal will be liable for any non-compliance by their contractors. What are some of the steps you can take to manage contractors?
When should you hire a compliance manager?
If you’re wondering if it’s time to hire a compliance manager, ask yourself how often you think about regulatory compliance and whether your business is across all regulatory obligations with appropriate controls in place. If the answer to the last question is not enough or no, it may be time to take on such an employee.
The AER’s Better Bills Guideline
On 31 March 2022, the Australian energy Regulator published the Better Bills Guideline. The Guideline creates binding and enforceable obligations on energy retailers in respect of their preparation and issuance of energy bills for small customers. This article summarises some of the key obligations of the Guidelines. For detailed instructions on how to implement and comply with the Guidelines, please get in touch.
Australian Energy Regulator Releases the Results of its Latest Compliance Audits Under the National Energy Retail Law
The Australian Energy Regulator has published results of its audits into Alinta Energy, Simply Energy, ReAmped Energy and Powershop with a focus on compliance with hardship and disconnection obligations. The audit results provide important information to all energy retailers as to what is expected when it comes to compliance in these key areas.