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Coalition Govt Welcomes $17 Million Win For Consumers On Smart Meters The Victorian Coalition Government has welcomed a decision this week from the Australian Energy Regulator (AER) to reject a proposed increase in SP AusNet’s smart meter charges for 2009-2011. By Russell Northe - 9th May 2011 - Back to News Nationals Member for Morwell Russell Northe said SP AusNet had proposed an increase of around $13 million over and above its existing 2009-2011 budget.
"The AER has not approved this increase, and further decided to disallow more than $4 million of the previously approved budget," said Mr Northe.
"This is a win for customers in areas serviced by SP AusNet, including the Latrobe Valley and Gippsland regions.
"The Coalition Government is pleased to note that the regulatory mechanisms have in this case worked to protect Victorian families from further increases in prices."
Mr Northe said the Coalition Government has commissioned a full and independent cost benefit analysis of the smart meter program, as recommended by the Auditor-General.
More information on the final decision can be found by accessing the AER website: http://www.aer.gov.au
Media: Russell Northe 0408 22 55 23 / Julia Auciello 5133 9088
Source: www.gippsland.com Published by: news@gippsland.com
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