Changing Energy Contracts
Northern Rivers Echo 14 September 2006
Changing Energy Contracts
Since the NSW Government opened up the energy sector to retail competition, my
office has been contacted recently by a number of people concerned about
contracts being offered to them by alternative energy providers.
Whilst the new rules allow us as customers to shop around and get a better deal,
it can also cause confusion about what is being offered.
The Energy and Water Ombudsman of NSW has produced a Fact Sheet for customers
considering a new contract. Amongst the advice they offer is that the consumer
should carefully read any contract they are offered before signing and check it
matches the deal the marketer described.
They advise there are two types of contracts, `Standard Form Contracts' and
`Negotiated Contracts'. Standard Form Contracts apply when you buy electricity
or gas direct from the standard retailer in your area, you automatically enter
into a Standard Form Customer Contract. This contract is regulated by the
Government and has standard rules and customer protections.
Negotiated Contracts apply if you change your retailer or accept a different
offer from your standard retailer, you will enter a Negotiated Contract.
If you would like further information please contact my office for a copy of the
Fact Sheet.
Small Business September Continues
In my last column I reported on Pollies for Small Business Day which is part of
Small Business September, a month of activities highlighting the importance of
small businesses.
The Month includes events and information about a variety of small business
interests such as improving marketing skills, discovering how to use the latest
innovations, expanding networks and growing your business.
The wide-ranging events of Small Business September 2006 are designed
specifically to assist small businesses achieve their business goals. Small
Business September helps business to develop strategies to deal with everything
from skills shortages and succession planning to exporting and the forces
affecting local and international markets.
Small Business September 2006 offers information to help strengthen small
business and assist them to prepare and grow for the future.
For more information about Small Business September please contact my office or
visit the website at www.smallbusinessmonth.nsw.gov.au.
