Victoria’s solar homeowners rorted: unfair charges from networks
Solar Citizens calls on the Australian Energy Regulator to urgently investigate media reports that Victoria power networks, Citipower and Powercor have slapped an unnecessary up to $300 charge on Victoria solar homeowners.
Solar Citizens National Director Claire O’Rourke said authorities must get to the bottom of the serious allegations of discriminatory practices and potential fees for services that were never rendered.
“These reports of unwarranted charges that Victorian power networks are charging solar households points to discrimination against hundreds of thousands of solar homes in Victoria with an outrageously unfair cost,” she said.
“Media reports suggest the power networks have been getting away with the up to $300 fee on solar homes for years. Thousands of solar families may have been hit with this charge, which could amount to millions of dollars.
“Solar households are most common in lower income suburbs - the main reason these families go solar is to help with the rising cost of power bills.
“Just last month we had an incredible turnout of Victoria solar homeowners at our Stand up for Solar launch in Melbourne.
“These homeowners pledged to support an end to unfair fees for solar owners, a national goal of at least 50% solar and renewable electricity generation by 2030 and to help all Australians who are struggling with the rising cost of electricity bills.
“Victorians clearly love solar and expect that they won’t be subjected to unfair charges.
“The Australian Energy Regulator needs to ensure that they protect solar homeowners and must urgently investigate the reports of discriminatory fees,” said Ms O’Rourke.
Claire O’Rourke is available for comment
Media Contact: Amy Gordon 0410 631 404
