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Queensland's Energy Ombudsman, Barry Adams, is concerned too many people are being left in the dark because they can't afford to pay their energy bills.
"If 22,000 Queenslanders are being disconnected because they can't pay an electricity bill, that's 22,000 too many," Mr Adams said.
"With the current global financial crisis and job losses, there will be many more people finding it harder to pay their bills every day.
"However help is available from energy suppliers and government for people who are suffering financially."
Mr Adams said if people can't afford to pay a bill or are facing disconnection, they should always contact their energy supplier immediately and discuss the options available to them.
"Under full retail competition, energy suppliers must have processes in place to assist customers experiencing payment difficulties," he said.
"These processes will help you to pay off your debt, and avoid disconnection, through affordable payment plans.
"Suppliers can also provide information on accessing financial counselling services, advice on concessions and rebates that may be available, and if applicable, advice on arranging energy audits to help reduce consumption."
Other assistance programs which are available include Centrelink's Centrepay automatic payments to accounts, and the Queensland Government's Home Energy Emergency Assistance Scheme and electricity and gas rebates for eligible pensioners.
For more information about these programs, contact your energy supplier.
Mr Adams said a Payment assistance and rebates fact sheet was also available on the Energy Ombudsman Queensland's website, www.eoq.com.au, or by phoning 1800 662 837.
"If you have contacted your supplier to discuss payment options but are unhappy with the outcome, contact EOQ straight away on free call 1800 662 837 or email complaints@eoq.com.au.
"We provide a free, fair and independent service to resolve disputes with your energy supplier."
Media contact:
Natasha Geritz on 3006 2676 or media@eoq.com.au
Issued 1 May 2009
