Australian energy cost and transition advocacy

In Australia, consumer and advocacy groups are pushing for energy reforms to address rising costs and transition away from fossil fuels.

Initially, a coalition of consumer, small business, and social sector groups urged the Australian Energy Regulator (AER) to reduce the Rate of Return Instrument. Advocates argued that the current mechanism, which determines costs for network infrastructure like poles and wires, results in approximately one billion dollars of consumer funds being lost to energy networks. Brendan French of Energy Consumers Australia stated the AER must “prioritize consumers over the profits of energy networks” as the regulator reviews the instrument.

Following these efforts, more than 30 organisations launched the ‘Electrify Australia’ campaign to advocate for the widespread electrification of homes and businesses. The campaign suggests that transitioning from gas, petrol, and diesel to electric alternatives could save households approximately $5,000 annually. The initiative calls for targeted support for renters, low-income households, and First Nations communities, while also urging the government to cap fuel subsidies for mining companies and reinvest those funds into electrification efforts.

The campaign has expanded its focus to include specific policy reforms for farmers and apartment dwellers. Proposed changes include legalizing plug-in solar and battery systems for renters and updating regulations to allow farmers to share renewable power across different parts of a property. While the New South Wales government has allocated $4.7 million to assist households with energy literacy, advocates warn that inconsistent federal messaging and a lack of clear guidance continue to hinder widespread adoption.