Modest electricity price rise not the real energy cost crisis

Repower The Dandenongs has responded to recent concerns over the Victorian Default Offer (VDO) energy price increase, pointing out that the real pain for households lies elsewhere—rising gas prices and poor-quality housing stock, not electricity generation or renewables.

The new VDO, announced by the Essential Services Commission, will rise by just $20 per year (1.2%) for the average household, bringing the annual cost to $1,675. The modest increase is largely due to rising network infrastructure costs, not the cost of generating electricity.

“Let’s be clear—this isn’t a renewables problem,” said Daniel Wurm, Secretary of Repower The Dandenongs. “In fact, solar, batteries and supporting technologies are the key to bringing energy costs down permanently.”

The community group is encouraging the Victorian Government to continue its focus on long-term solutions, including:

• Supporting households to transition away from expensive gas appliances
• Expanding access to solar, batteries, and efficient electric heating and cooling
• Investing in retrofitting inefficient homes, particularly for renters and low-income households

Repower The Dandenongs supports calls for immediate relief for vulnerable households, but says that ongoing reliance on gas and outdated appliances will continue to drive bills higher unless more structural change is made.

“We encourage anyone struggling with electricity bills to visit our website or Facebook group”, said Daniel. “We provide free, practical advice on how to reduce energy use and costs permanently—while cutting emissions too.”