Business SA has submitted to the Australian Energy Regulator (AER) in response to SA Power Networks’ 2020-25 regulatory proposal, including its updated tariff structure. SAPN’s $4 billion proposal forms approximately one third of electricity bills and Business SA has focussed on ensuring that all spending is efficient and in the best long-term interests of consumers. We are also mindful that recent grid demand forecasts have overshot due to increased solar generation, resulting in fast rising per unit network prices. We have welcomed a specific focus on improving reliability in poorly served areas, particularly on the Eyre Peninsula and in the Adelaide Hills. Furthermore, we have recognised SAPN’s increasing challenges managing distributed solar resources, and broadly supported their proposed tariff structure albeit noting small consumers’ need for cost-effective data access.
Business SA lobbies on behalf of members to ensure the voice of South Australian business is heard and that we achieve the best environment in which to do business. A significant part of that lobbying effort is through written submissions we make to all levels of government and other organisations such as utility companies, either in response to formal reviews of for example, legislation, or proactively where we wish to progress a particular issue not high enough on the government’s agenda. This might include submissions before the State Budget or where say, the government is reviewing options to reduce red-tape. We also make regular submissions to the Fair Work Commission to advocate the interests of our members with respect to Modern Awards and other industrial matters.
Business SA’s policy team relies heavily on member input into our submissions to ensure that we have the most comprehensive and current perspective from members for any position we take on your behalf. So if you are asked to complete a survey, speak with a policy team member on the phone or participate in a member forum, we appreciate your involvement as it all helps to strengthen the case of business.
Date Published: May 2019
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