Energy pop up stall highlights opportunities for savings

25 November 2024

More than 70 people visited Council’s Climate Change and Sustainability team at their recent World Energy Day pop up stall, receiving help to better understand their bills and save money.

The combined cost-of-living crisis and the impacts of electricity from coal and gas on climate change were hot topics of conversation as Tweed community members passed by the stall. 

Visitors also reported paying varying energy charges from major energy retailers. Daily access charges ranged from $1.39 through to $2.06 per day, and peak electricity rates ranged from $0.29 to $0.47.

Council's Program Leader Climate Change and Sustainability Debbie Firestone said the uptake on energy rebates was promising.

“We were helping people access the Australian Government’s Energy Made Easy website to compare their current provider with others," said Ms Firestone.

"Council’s research into the issue of energy poverty in the Tweed has found that approximately 1,000 households in the Tweed may be paying more than 10% of their household income on electricity, putting considerable strain on household budgets to meet their needs while keeping homes safe to heat, cool and keep the lights on.

“I was reassured that people eligible for NSW and Australian Government energy rebates are registered and receiving relief on their bills.

“We also found that nearly $1.9 million worth of NSW Government energy rebates went unclaimed in 2022 - 2023. Council is keen to see those eligible for energy rebates making the most of them.”

An Energy Access and Poverty plan will be presented to Council, encouraging Council to play a greater role in reducing energy poverty in the Tweed as part of Council’s response to climate change and by promoting affordable, sustainable energy sources for all.

Find more energy saving tips at tweed.nsw.gov.au/saving-energy