Energy access for vulnerable South Australians through SA Power Networks’ Partnership with ConnectEd
Fatima lives in a Housing SA Property with her three children and had been dependent for years on portable, costly heaters to keep warm after several years of chemotherapy impacted her sensitivity to cold, driving up her power bill.
Owning good quality and efficient household appliances is something many of us take for granted. Imagine having to constantly choose between heating your home or putting food on the table. This is a reality for one in five Australian households living below the poverty line. For those struggling on low incomes, the prospect of an appliance upgrade or energy efficiency improvements is often an unaffordable dream.
The introduction of a trial, funded in 2022 by SA Power Networks in close collaboration with utility literacy program ConnectEd, is helping shift the energy equity needle in South Australia. With an initial investment of $50,000, ConnectEd worked with its state-wide network of energy advisors and financial counsellors to improve energy efficiency and affordability for vulnerable and low-income households. Within six months, the trial has seen grants approved for over 70 households and individuals to purchase new energy efficient appliances and pay down their energy debt.
Fatima’s Financial Counsellor at ConnectEd partner, UnitingCare Wesley Bowden, knew that the grant, air conditioner and support from energy specialists in the ConnectEd program would help her save on the cost of her power bill in the long run. The ConnectEd team engaged a Retailer Energy Productivity Scheme (REPS) supplier to install a new 3.5kW air conditioner which was positioned above Fatima’s front door to make sure it worked as efficiently as possible. The staff went the extra mile and draught sealed the front door and the kitchen back door to prevent air escaping and costing Fatima more on her bills.
The program aims to reduce and stabilise energy bills, while positively impacting household finances and mental stress for most of the clients who have been funded.
“SA Power Networks was happy to support this trial and partner with ConnectEd to support customers in need to improve their energy efficiency and reduce their energy debt” said Alex Lewis, SA Power Reset Engagement Manager.
Following on from its initial success, the trial for the program has been extended for an additional six months. Click here to learn more about the program.
