ACT politician says 'better offer' section on energy bills 'misleading'

An Australian Capital Territory (ACT) politician is calling for greater transparency from energy provider ActewAGL, accusing the company of misleading customers about their energy plans. Independent MLA Thomas Emerson stated that ActewAGL is not explicitly revealing the best deals available to customers, despite legislation requiring energy providers to disclose if customers could be on a more affordable plan.

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Every 90 days customers will receive on their bill if a better deal is available with their current retailer.

During a budget estimates hearing, ActewAGL Retail acting chief executive Megan Wilcox confirmed that customers would be informed of better deals every 90 days. However, she noted that these were not always the absolute best possible offers. An ActewAGL spokesperson later clarified that some superior deals are only accessible after a customer discusses their specific circumstances with the company.

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Customers can contact their retailer and seek to achieve a better discount than that.

Emerson expressed frustration, questioning why his ActewAGL bill would state he is on the best plan when he could secure a better discount by threatening to switch to another provider like Origin Energy. He believes the company's practice of implying customers are on the best plan while withholding better options available through negotiation is deceptive. Emerson urged ActewAGL to be more upfront, emphasizing that the ACT government has a 50% stake in the company through Icon Water, and residents should not have to

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Why does my ActewAGL bill say I'm on 'the best plan' they can offer me if I can get a better plan by threatening to jump ship to Origin?