See how AGL, Origin and Alinta are supporting businesses
As the energy crisis continues to impact businesses across the country, what are individual energy providers doing to support businesses who are struggling to keep up?
Energy bill increases are due to officially increase as of July 1, so you may not have experienced an increase in energy costs just yet. If the rate hikes do start to impact your ability to manage your energy bills, here’s how some of the major energy providers are supporting Australian businesses:
AGL
Having been in business for 180 years, AGL powers businesses from construction sites, to offices, shops, science labs, breweries, restaurants and zoos. If you’re struggling with increasing energy bills, AGL has a financial hardship program that invites customers to speak directly to their specially trained consultants, who will work with customers to set up a personal payment plan that considers your financial situation and what you can afford to pay. If your business falls under a residential energy category, such as aged care, retirement facilities or churches, you may also be eligible for AGL’s customer hardship policy known as Staying Connected.
Price hike takes effect: August 1
Origin Energy
Similar to AGL, Origin Energy has a financial hardship policy known as the Power On Program available to residential customers, which supports payment plans. If your business requires help setting up a payment plan, Origin can shape one to match your needs, which covers both your existing debt and future energy usage. Origin can also offer estimates of how much your future energy will cost, and advice on how to keep costs down with business energy tips.
Price hike takes effect: July 1
Alinta Energy
Alinta also offers a financial hardship policy for residential customers, however they clearly state that “if you are a small business customer, we will be unable to provide you with access to our hardship program.” That said, Alinta encourages business customers to contact them if you’re having any trouble managing your energy bills, or if you’d like to discuss your impending increased bills.
Price hike takes effect: August 1
Other retailers, including EnergyAustralia, offer similar hardship programs and assistance, although some smaller energy companies are urging customers to actually switch to a bigger retailer that is in a position to better absorb wholesale price increases, and therefore won’t pass on as big price hikes.
Massive price increases took effect as of July 1 with retailers like ReAmped (100%), LPE (100%), Discover Energy (285%) and GloBird (147%). If you’re currently with one of these energy companies, you should take action immediately to find a better deal.
The energy market is currently very volatile and it can be difficult for businesses to navigate. At Make it Cheaper, we can help; we work with a number of high-profile, established energy providers, including the biggest brands in the market. We regularly review the energy market, to help businesses take control of their energy bills and achieve potential savings.
Contact us at Make It Cheaper for an obligation-free review to see if we can help your business get a better deal with your energy. Call us today on 1300 957 721.
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