HOUSEHOLD electricity prices across the national electricity market (NEM) have fallen to eight-year lows, driven by key government reforms, according to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC).
The ACCC’s latest report from its ongoing inquiry into the NEM confirms electricity prices had fallen substantially for both households and business customers over the past two years.
The report found the average annual cost of electricity for a residential customer in 2020–21 was $1434, down by $128 or 8 per cent across the past two financial years.
Costs for businesses have fallen even further, down 10 per cent for small businesses over the last two years, and down 12 per cent for large businesses.
The ACCC also said it expected electricity prices would continue to fall over the coming 12 months as the impact from falling wholesale costs over the last two years continue to flow through to consumers.
Treasurer Josh Frydenberg said the government has a clear expectation that these falling costs are passed onto consumers, and that the energy market delivers the best outcomes for Australian households and businesses.
“The ACCC has found electricity prices are expected to fall further over the next year, due to lower wholesale costs, reflecting lower costs for coal and gas, increased supply from solar and wind generation, and lower transmission costs,” the treasurer said.
“These findings are great news for Australian families and businesses, with lower electricity costs further supporting Australians as the economy recovers from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.”
Minister for industry, energy and emissions reduction Angus Taylor said government programs, such as the default market offer and the “big stick” legislation for energy companies, are directly helping customers to benefit from reduced electricity costs.
“Households and businesses rely on affordable, reliable power to grow and thrive,” Mr Taylor said.
Federal Member for Mallee Anne Webster said the government is focused on ensuring access to affordable, secure and reliable electricity.
“Energy costs are continuing to fall and this is welcome news for families and small businesses right across Mallee,” Dr Webster said.
“Our plan is delivering real savings for Australians, and this is yet another report, following recent reporting from the AER, the AEMC and the ABS, showing how our government’s actions are supporting sustained and substantial electricity price falls”.
