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Category: Electricity Energy and Utilities / States and Territories / Government and Politics

SA Power Networks doesn't need more cash, SA Treasurer says

Monday, 1 Aug 2016 14:16:25 | Lauren Waldhuter

SA Power Networks is seeking more money to fund upgrades. (ABC News: Damien Larkins)

The South Australian Government will go to the Australian Competition Tribunal to argue against SA Power Networks' (SAPN) attempt to charge more for electricity distribution.

In October last year the Australian Energy Regulator (AER) handed down its final decision, ruling SAPN could collect $3.8 billion over the next five years, rejecting the company's request to collect $4.5 billion.

In its final decision the tribunal said: "We expect average annual electricity bills for residential customers that fell by $203 in 2015-16 will rise $45 in 2016-17."

The power distributor is appealing the decision at the tribunal with the hearing to resume in Melbourne this week.

Treasurer and Energy Minister Tom Koutsantonis said the Government would send a representative to make a submission to the tribunal against the power distributor's case.

"We have received leave to appear on behalf of South Australian consumers and I have instructed my executive director Mr Vince Duffy to appear on my behalf," he said.

"What we want is that the Australian Energy Regulator's decision be implemented in full.

"We think the AER has got it right, we think the AER has given enough money to SAPN to run its business."

SAPN is arguing it needs extra revenue to invest in network upgrades including bushfire risk mitigation and putting more power lines underground.

In June social welfare, business and agriculture groups appeared at a preliminary hearing in Adelaide to voice their concerns against SAPN's proposal.

AustraliaPlus


 

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