There is that option with Time of Use (ToU) tariffs being offered for customers with Solar PV in QLD.
The existence of these tariffs is evident when the Energy Made Easy web resource is used with a SE QLD post code.
We’re in SE QLD where Energex is the distributor. When changing retailers earlier this year we had the option of ToU or Demand tariffs. AGL, Origin and several other retailers approached.
ToU and Demand tariffs are only available to those with a smart meter. Unfortunately these are ‘dumb’ or ‘stupid’ meters IMO. They have the technical potential to export data in real time to the customer - however this capability is not provided with the meters. Worse that customers with smart meters pay an additional daily cost for the meter.
There is a current discussion in the following
Unless one can see real time usage managing consumption for those with a ToU tariff plan leaves one exposed to bill shock. If on a Demand tariff, one does not know until the damage has been done. A one off peak sets the Demand charge for each billing month.
The transition is necessary. Whether it is being done in a way that is fair and equitable is open to question. There is no ‘worse off test provision’ when comparing individual consumer outcomes. The AER and for QLD Ergon connected consumers QCA determinations accept comparisons based on an ‘average’ consumer (at several agreed consumption points).
P.S.
We have one supply on a Demand tariff, first bill to hand. I’m still digesting it.
