Red tape cut to allow for NSW smart meter savings
Smart meter customers across NSW will benefit from savings and an improved connection experience with restrictions on remote connection and disconnection of meters now lifted.
The Department of Planning, Industry and Environment’s Executive Director Energy Andrew Lewis said by allowing this remote function, customers’ connection fees are expected to fall by at least 75 per cent and they’ll have much quicker access to power once they have moved into a new address.
Currently 23 percent of NSW customers have smart meters, according to the Australian Energy Market Operator, though this is rising quickly.
Mr Lewis said existing national consumer protections for vulnerable customers, such as those facing financial stress or with life support equipment, will continue to apply to ensure that no customer would be worse off.
Director of Consumer Building & Property at NSW Fair Trading Matthew Whitton said the NSW Government will support the lifting of the restriction by implementing a new safety framework for retailers and metering providers.
“Retailers and metering providers will need to submit plans to NSW Fair Trading covering safety management and customer and technical procedures before they can undertake remote connection and disconnection, because safety is a priority that cannot be compromised.
