Synergy is working with the WA Government to deliver a range of energy-specific relief packages to support customers during the fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The global crisis is having an impact across the WA community, not least the financial hardship many businesses are experiencing or expecting because of business closures, changing economic conditions and other COVID-19 related issues.
The range of support offered is based on an understanding of what customers need most at this time. Synergy is working to help small businesses in WA manage their electricity accounts and feel confidence and reassurance around the security of electricity supply.
Initiatives to help eligible small businesses in WA with energy relief
The new measures, which are all in place until at least 30 September 2020, include:
Account offset for eligible businesses
One of the new measures includes subsidised electricity bills for around 77,000 eligible Synergy customers affected directly by COVID-19 related business shutdowns. This includes local cafés, delis, restaurants, beauticians and retailers. Eligible small businesses supplied under Synergy’s L1, R1, C1, D1 or K1 tariff and consuming less than 50MWh per annum, will receive a $2,500 offset on their Synergy account.
For more information on eligibility visit the Synergy website.
Support for WA charities
The same $2,500 offset for eligible small businesses is being extended to approximately 2,800 eligible charities in WA currently on community service and charitable accommodation electricity plans.
No disconnections because of hardship from COVID-19
Synergy is making sure that no businesses experiencing COVID-19 hardship will face power disconnections due to late payments.
Flexible payment options
No interest will be charged on deferred bill payments to those small businesses who consume 50MWh or less per annum and are supplied by Synergy.
Initiatives to help support WA households
Synergy has also introduced a number of COVID-19 related initiatives for WA households to help them during this challenging time as many face the impact of changing economic conditions and job losses.
How to access energy relief from Synergy
“We understand this is a very difficult time for many of our business and residential customers,” said Colin Smith, Synergy, General Manager Customer Experience. “We invite any customer who finds themselves needing help to manage their electricity bills now, or indeed at any time, to get in touch with us as soon as possible.”
“We are here to help with flexible payment options and may be able to organise payment extension plans of up to 100 days. We’ll discuss your options with you to help you access the assistance you might need.”
Visit synergy.net.au/Covid-19 to find more details about Synergy’s energy relief measures, developed in conjunction with the WA Government.
By Synergy
