Power saving bonus uptake in the Yarra Ranges revealed

Yarra Ranges residents have been applying for the Power Saving Bonus. Picture: ON FILE.

Over one million people signed up for the State Government’s $250 Power Saving Bonus initiative, with close to 30,000 people in the Yarra Ranges inquiring about the program.

The latest round of the program has seen 40 per cent of applicants find a better energy deal – with thousands of Victorians choosing to switch and save by changing their energy deal through the Victorian Energy Compare website.

More than 17,000 households have already received the $250 Power Saving Bonus through a community outreach partner, with 73 per cent of these applicants receiving additional energy affordability advice.

“The best way to lower energy bills is to look for a better offer – that’s why we’re encouraging Victorians to take advantage of another round of the Power Saving Bonus to make sure they are on the best deal ahead of winter,” Premier Daniel Andrews said.

Across the local electorates, 9389 households have requested access to the bonus in Evelyn, 8903 in Eildon and 8049 in Monbulk.

In the Dandenong Ranges, Emerald residents have been the most keen to gain savings, with 666 households applying, followed by 417 in Monbulk and 254 in Gembrook.

Tailing just behind are Olinda residents with 203 applying, closely followed by 186 in Kallista and 151 in Ferny Creek.

131 households in Avonsleigh applied for the bonus, with 101 households in Silvan and 100 households in Sassafras also looking for a power bill cut.

The Patch, Macclesfield, Clematis, Sherbrooke and Tremont did not reach the hundred mark, with 99, 89, 39, 32 applications respectively.

Applications for the payment can be made through the Victorian Energy Compare website, where customers can quickly and easily find the best energy offers in their areas.

Local organisations, like CIS Yarra Ranges, are also offering access to the service for those unable to apply online.

To access the $250 Power Saving Bonus, visit compare.energy.vic.gov.au or call 1800 000 832. To speak to an Energy Assistance Program advocate, call 1800 161 215.