Essential Energy has its Origin in NSW

Published: April 04, 2011 - 11:30 AM

Country Energy carved up into Essential and Origin Energy

As part of the NSW Government's energy sector reforms, the Country Energy business has been carved up. The retail business has transferred to one of the industry's big players, Origin Energy. And the distribution business, or poles and wires, will now be operated under a new name, Essential Energy. The changes applied from 1 March 2011.

Country Energy prided itself on being a regional supplier, its branding stating "We live here too". With the transfer of its retailing operations to Origin Energy, many country customers may feel abandoned by the retailer. Origin Energy is a public company, with operations across the Pacific, New Zealand and Australia. An international operation that presents a wholly different flavour to a regional-based supplier focussed on the bush.

Alison Walter of Shoparound.com.au said that the transfer of Country Energy's retailing arm to Origin Energy may not lead to a cheaper electricity price for customers. "Regional NSW customers of Country Energy, who are now through no choice of their own customers of Origin Energy, should consider whether they are getting the best electricity or gas deal. By 5 minutes research, they can compare electricity prices and check whether Origin Energy is the best provider in their area."

To compare electricity prices in NSW, or compare electricity prices in Victoria or to find a cheap electricity deal in Queensland visit shoparound.com.au.

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