Horizon Power feels the force of consumer fury

17th Apr 2012

We reported earlier this month how Horizon Power had decided to introduce location-based solar power pricing, which was billed as a fairer way for Western Australians to pay for their electricity.

Just a matter of days after the announcement, disgruntled customers have aired their views on the changes…and they're not happy.

This is particularly the case for Broome residents, who were told that they would not be receiving as much money back for their solar electricity than they had expected.

Horizon Power had hoped to make its scheme fairer by offering more money to those who provide energy back to the grid in remote locations, as power is typically more expensive to supply.

For those in built-up areas, however, this will mean being paid less for exporting electricity back to the grid – and this is where the bone of contention lies.

The electricity supplier had hoped to introduce these changes in a civilised manner by inviting residents of towns throughout Western Australia to forums, where they were told of how they would be affected.

However, some people in Broome feel hard done by, including resident Gary Waldron, who vented his frustrations to the ABC.

"I think they've shot themselves in the foot and plus they've shown that the contracts they've written or the promises they've made are worthless because they've just gone out in our case six months later and changed their minds."

As you would probably expect, Horizon was quick to defend its decision, saying that the amendments would not have much of an impact on customers.

The changes aren't due to come into force until July 1, which is when we will get the first real indication of how true this statement is.

In the meantime, we're just going to have to keep making our voices heard.

Posted by Mike Peacock

 

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