After years of neglecting the energy sector, the Iemma Government expects NSW taxpayers to shoulder the burden with electricity prices set to rise by an average of 8.5% next month, Shadow Minister for Energy Mike Baird said today.

“This is the double whammy. We’ve had water charges hiked up to fund the Iemma Government’s white elephant desal plant and now families are being slugged with escalating electricity bills,” Mr Baird said.

Regulated electricity prices for EnergyAustralia and Integral Energy customers will rise by an average of 8.5% as of July 1, while Country Energy customers will face an average 4.8% increase, following approval by IPART today.

“There is no coincidence that Morris Iemma has released this massive hike in electricity prices late on a Friday afternoon.

“At the end of a tough week he’s attempting to hide more bad news for families who are barely making ends meet.

“The Premier should be fronting the media to explain why electricity prices are going up and what he’s doing about it.

“There’s no doubt there is worldwide pressure on energy, however prudent management of the State’s energy sector could have avoided such a substantial rise.

“Each year since 2005 the Iemma Government has seized around $1 billion in dividends and taxes from NSW generators and retailers.

“Despite all forecasts showing energy demands outstripping supply, not one generator has been built in NSW in 15 years.

“The Iemma Government’s rush to sell the State’s electricity assets is directly linked to their failure to prepare for the energy crisis we have today.

“It is appalling that they are forcing NSW taxpayers to come to the rescue,” Mr Baird said.

MEDIA: Lisa Harrington - 0406 726 880

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