AFTER several days of conflicting reports, Powercor has officially confirmed it will be sending out cheques to residents affected by this week’s blackout.
Powercor has measures in place to ensure its supply of electricity to customers is of a specific level and where it does not meet their standards, customers will receive payment.
Spokesperson Drew Douglas said that it was potentially the specific wording around the $100 rumours that was causing confusion.
“Powercor is aware of our obligations under the Electricity Code as regulated by Victoria’s Essential Services Commission and ask Swan Hill area customers to refer to the website for more information on potential Guaranteed Service Level (GSL) payments,” Mr Douglas said.
One of their GSL payments states “unplanned sustained interruptions of more than 20 hours ($100), more than 30 hours ($150) or more than 60 hours ($300), in a calendar year.”
Mr Douglas said that residents would receive payment according to their circumstances and that payments were aggregated on a calendar year basis.
“Customers can expect a cheque in the mail within the next 12 months,” he said.
However, the fact remains that Powercor will not be issuing any monetary compensation for loss of food or business, nor will there be discounts on electricity bills.
Mr Douglas said the reaction from those affected by the blackout had been mostly understanding.
“We are very pleased with how the community has responded [to the blackout],” he said.
