1 July 2008 Residential 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 have my electricity charges increased?

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.

 

As a result of this year’s pricing adjustment, the regulated domestic electricity rate has increased 5.38% or approximately $88 per annum ($1.70 per week) for the average residential customer consumption. 

 

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

 

How much will my bill go up?

As a result of this year’s pricing adjustment, the regulated domestic electricity rate has increased 5.38% or approximately $88 per annum ($1.70 per week) for the average residential customer consumption. 

 

These cost increases including increases in the Consumer Price Index.

 

What is the benefit to me as a customer from these price increases?

With the population of Queensland continuing to grow at a rapid rate, the distribution companies need to continually upgrade a rapidly expanding electricity network.  Cost increases for customers allows both Energex and Ergon Energy to invest in the network expansion program, giving customers a reliable and safe electricity network.

 

What are my options if I want to terminate?

If you choose to terminate your Negotiated Retail Contract prior to the end date of the agreement you can either return to a standard form contract or choose another retailer, however, if you do so you will be charged an early termination fee. The details of this fee are outlined in your Terms and Conditions booklet under condition 12.

 

You may terminate the Negotiated Retail Contract without penalty at any time up to 10 days after signing your Negotiated Retail Contract by written notice directly to us.

 

Can I choose another energy supplier if I am not satisfied with Integral Energy?

Yes, you can, however, please note that our competitors are also expected to increase their prices in line with the QCA price determination.

 

You are required to pay the applicable early termination fee which is set out in your agreement. The details of the early termination fee are set out at conditions 12 of your Terms and Conditions brochure. 

 

Do I have to pay an early termination fee?

You are required to pay the applicable early termination fee which is set out in clause 12 of your Terms and Conditions.  For more information regarding the Early Termination Fee, please Click here. 

 

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 pricing as they will appear under the heading 'New rate period' for each of your tariffs.

 

Who approved the new prices?

The price adjustment was reviewed and approved by the Queensland Competition Authority (QCA).

 

If you require more information in relation to the QCA’s decision please visit their website which can be found on www.qca.org.au

 

Are pensioner rebates changing?

Yes, the Queensland State Government has announce an increase in the State Governments rebate for pensioners and seniors to match the electricity price rise.  These rebates are around $145.00 a year.

 

Will my price go up again?

Prices are reviewed every 12 months by the QCA and implemented on 1 July.

 

When will my bill increase?

These prices take effect from 1 July 2008. 

 

How will Energex read my meter before and after 1 July?

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.

 

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.

 

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 section, 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. You can send a fax to Customer Care via 9853 5184 or email: 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 Customer Call Centre representatives on 133 753.  Our friendly Customer Service Team is available from 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday.