50,000 Victorians Received Energy Bill Assistance During COVID-19

A report by the state energy regulator has revealed that more than 50,000 Victorians received bill relief during the coronavirus pandemic.

The Essential Services Commission (ESC) 2019-20 annual Energy Market Report stated that despite large customer numbers requiring financial assistance, the industry has been generally supportive to consumers.

ESC Chairperson, Kate Symons, said applications for government utility relief grants were in demand and that disconnections were put on hold during the height of the pandemic.

“There was a 73 per cent increase in utility relief grants with more than 50,000 applications being approved. The sector stopped disconnecting customers for non-payment in mid-April…