Origin Energy to refund 4,500 customers after ACCC investigation
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The news: Origin Energy will refund over $270,000 to more than 4,500 customers after an ACCC investigation into the energy retailer’s allegedly misleading ‘Ongoing Saver’ residential electricity plan.
The numbers: Affected customers will, on average, receive approximately $60 in remediation from Origin.
The context: The competition regulator said Origin made statements representing charges in the Ongoing Saver plan as lower than Origin’s ‘Basic’ plan over the life of the plan.
In fact, some customers on Ongoing Saver plans were charged more than they would have been on the Basic plan.
Origin does not admit that it breached the Australian Consumer Law but, in response to the ACCC’s concerns, has committed to providing refunds to customers.
The ACCC said it will not take further enforcement action.
What they said: “Electricity retailers that claim or suggest savings for consumers on their plans, including in the name of the plan, must ensure that the savings are actually delivered to customers for the life of the plan,” said ACCC commissioner Anna Brakey.
“Energy plans are complex, and the mix of usage and supply charges makes it difficult for many consumers to assess potential savings. Retailers should provide clear and accurate information about their plans to help consumers make informed decisions.”
The source: ACCC
