The State Liberals have cautiously welcomed today’s news that households may see a reduction in their electricity bills by an average of $200 in 2015-16.

“The question is why has it taken so long to see a reduction in electricity network charges,” said Shadow Minister for Mineral Resources and Energy Dan van Holst Pellekaan.

The Australian Energy Regulator (AER) announced its preliminary decision to reduce the amount SA Power Networks can charge today.

Unfortunately, after this reduction South Australian’s will still have the highest electricity and gas bills in the nation, indicating further reductions are required to put South Australia on a level playing field with the rest of country .

“Finally some good news in respect of cost living pressures for South Australian households and small businesses,” said Dan van Holst Pellekaan.

“It is good to see some relief for households and small businesses with an estimated $200 and $380 respectively off their annual bills for 2015-16.

“However caution is required as this is only a preliminary decision and whilst it will determine prices for 2015-16, the final decision regarding price rises for the following 4 years won’t be made until October.

“I urge the AER to hold the line on its final determination and electricity retailers must pass on these reductions to customers

“One important reason for the reduction in power prices is improved efficiency.

“Given South Australians will still have the highest electricity bills in the nation after a 10 per cent reduction much more needs to be done to reduce cost of living pressures on the family budget.

“It’s time for the Weatherill Government to tackle state taxes that have increased by 106 per cent, property charges that have increased by 120 percent and water bills that have increased by 236 per cent.”