1 July 2007 Small and Medium (SME) Business price changes

 

On 1 July 2008 the cost of electricity will increase for most Queensland households and businesses.

 

These pricing changes are in accordance with the Queensland Competition Authority (QCA) decisions and will directly help to ensure the continued efficiency, safety and reliability of the State’s electricity network.

 

Why does Integral Energy have to increase its prices?

Integral Energy has adjusted retail prices in accordance with the determinations of the Queensland Competition Authority (QCA). This adjustment occurs across the electricity supply industry in QLD from 1 July 2008.

 

The QCA is an independent Statutory Authority that is responsible for calculating a Benchmark Retail Cost Index which is used to escalate regulated electricity prices annually in QLD.

 

These cost increases in the regulated prices includes increases in:

•          the cost of wholesale electricity

•          network and transmission charges to fund improvements in network reliability

•          the costs of operating in the competitive retail energy market

 

 

Who approved the new prices?

The price adjustment was reviewed and approved by the Queensland Competition Authority (QCA). You can find out more about QCA by visiting www.qca.org.au.

 

When will my bill increase?

These prices take effect from 1 July 2008. As Energex may not read your meter on 1 July 2008, your first bill after 1 July 2008 will display the increase in regulated rates.

Meters are read throughout the year according to a tightly-planned schedule. Unfortunately, it is not practical or feasible for Energex to read hundreds of thousands of meters on 30 June. For this reason and in accordance with the Electricity Act 1994, we pro-rate your consumption for the purpose of calculating your account where a rate change has occurred. For example, if your account was for a 90 day period ending 31 July 2008, you would be billed for 59 days (3May08 to 30Jun08) at the old rate and for 31 days (1Jul08 to 31Jul08) at the new rate.

 

How will it appear on my bill?

If your billing cycle means that your bill incorporates usage before and after 1 July, then on your next bill you will be able to see the new charges relating to post 1 July 2008 pricing as they will appear under the heading ‘New rate period’ for each of your tariffs.

 

Will my price go up again?

It is possible your prices may increase again in the future in line with the QCA regulated pricing reviews.

 

What if I don’t like these changes to your prices – who can I write to?

If you would like to make a formal complaint, please write to our Customer Care team, detailing what aspects of the changes you are concerned with and we’ll respond to you either in writing or one of our staff will contact you to discuss the matter further. Please address your letter to Customer Care, Integral Energy, PO Box 6366, Blacktown,NSW 2148. You can send a fax to Customer Care via (02) 9853 5184 or e-mail: integral@integral.com.au

 

What help is available if I am having difficulty in paying my account?

Integral Energy provides a range of flexible payment options to our customers. You can discuss these options with our friendly Customer Service Team on 1300 137 327.

 

Do I have to do anything if I am on direct debit?

No, your new amount will automatically be debited from your bank account as per your nominated date.

 

Who do I speak with if I have any further questions?

Please call our friendly Customer Service Team on 1300 137 327.