Energy Retail Rules change to meter reading proposed

All energy consumers could soon be able to send their providers a photograph of their meter readers under proposed changes to the Energy Retail Rules.

Minister Josh Frydenberg has announced the Federal Government has put forward a rule change to the Australian Energy Market Commission (AEMC).

Under the current system, if a meter reader cannot gain access to the meter, an estimation can be made.

But the Retail Code says that providers must endeavour to carry out an actual reading, only once every 12 months.

In some cases this can mean instances of bill shock, when a reading is taken into account.

Some companies already allow their customers to submit photographs of the readings.

The Minister says this rule change would allow all consumers to be able to electronically submit the amount of their energy use.