How can I manage my winter power bill?

An Anglicare financial counsellor can provide you with support if you are worried about how to afford your winter power bill.

Anglicare encourages people to speak to a professional financial counsellor. Just call the National Debt Helpline, 1800 007 007.

A financial counsellor will look at your power bill history as part of your household budget. They can also support you to negotiate an affordable payment plan with your retailer if you are at risk of disconnection because you haven’t paid your bill. This advice is free and confidential.

Find out more about our financial counselling service here.

Here are some simple tips to stay warm this winter and avoid bill shock:

• Set your heat pump to between 18-20 degrees. You use 10% more power for every degree increase. Close the doors to rooms that are not in use.
• Roll up some old towels and turn them into door snakes to block draughts. This simple trick really does make a difference!
• Invest in some heavy, lined curtains to prevent heat loss from your windows.
• Use an electric throw blanket on your couch  –  it’s much cheaper than running a costly fan heater.
• Make sure your retailer knows that you have a Centrelink concession card. You could save more than $100 on your bill.

You can find more hints and tips here on Aurora’s website.

Other resources you might find useful:

Aurora Energy’s YES program – for Aurora customers who are in financial hardship.

Aurora’s Home Energy Audit Toolkit (HEAT) – available from local councils. The kit audits your appliances and identifies areas where you can reduce your consumption.

TasNetworks has joined with the Australian Energy Foundation to provide a free advisory service on how to save power and lower your bills.  You can book a consultation online or call 1300 23 68 55.

Energy Made Easy – an Australian Government website that compares energy retailers’ fees and charges.

The No Interest Loans Scheme – providing Tasmanians on low incomes with an interest-free loan to upgrade their washing machine or fridge to a newer, more energy-efficient model.