Competition won't affect the reliability and safety of your electricity or gas supply. This will remain the responsibility of the energy companies which own the electricity poles and wires or the gas pipe systems.
These companies should notify you at least two business days in advance of any maintenance on the system which may disrupt your supply.
If the electricity or gas company does not give you that notice, or the planned interruption is longer than the time indicated, then they must compensate you at least $20.
Safety and reliability of supply
The safety and reliability of your electricity or gas supply will continue to be regulated by the NSW Ministry of Energy and Utilities.
About half the price you pay for your electricity and gas covers the network costs. That's the poles and wires for electricity and the pipes for gas that you are paying for. These prices are regulated by the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART).
If you choose to, you can ask your retailer to separate out the network component on your bill, so you can see just how much you are paying for this service. Or you can choose to continue receiving your bills just the way you always have.
This means changing energy retailers will not change the reliability or quality of your power or gas supply.
Why don't I have access to gas?
Not all households in NSW are connected to a gas supply. This is because the costs of providing gas services by installing new pipes outweighs any economic benefits as not all customers choose to connect to gas.
What to do if you have an energy supply problem
A phone number will be printed on your electricity or gas bill to report faults or difficulties with the wires that distribute electricity or the pipes that distribute gas to your premises.
For problems with your bills, contact your retail supplier. This number will also be printed on your bill.
Want more information?
A free booklet explaining the choices available to you will be in your letterbox in early 2002. The booklet will contain information you will find useful if you decide to shop around for the best deal on your energy.
You may also call our information line on 1300 136 888.
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