The Tasmanian Economic Regulator’s interview on ABC radio this morning did nothing to quell Tasmanians’ concerns that they are being ripped off on power prices by Premier Jeremy Rockliff’s broken promises.
Energy Minister Guy Barnett left the Independent Regulator to explain his energy policy this morning. It is not the Regulator’s job to make or explain power price policy, it is the Government’s.
If Minister Barnett implemented a price cap like he said he would, the regulator’s determination would not have any effect.
Tasmanians are hurting badly trying to cope with the soaring cost of living. At the same time, Hydro and TasNetworks are expected to hand over higher than expected dividends – it is effectively a tax on Tasmanian power users.
Labor has a simple belief: Tasmanians should pay Tasmanian prices for Tasmanian power.
Tasmanians have invested in the Hydro for 100 years. We own the dams, the wires, and a retailer. Tasmanians should be the ones who benefit.
That’s why a Labor government will cap power prices at 2.5 per cent within the first 100 days, saving households hundreds of dollars and small businesses thousands.
Dean Winter MP
Shadow Minister for Energy and Renewables
