Full Retail Contestability
In October 2002, gas full retail contestability was implemented. This means that all Victorian gas consumers, no matter how big or small, now have a choice of their gas retailer.
Changing a retailer means you choose who sells you gas, manages your gas bills, and provides services to you. Changing retailers does not mean you change distributors. Multinet as a gas distributor, will continue to supply premises with gas within its defined geographic area and will continue to maintain the gas pipes within its network area.
- For more information about the contestable gas market and changing retailers, visit the Essential Services Commission website at http://www.esc.vic.gov.au/
Another important body involved in the process is the Victorian Energy Networks Corporation (VENCorp). VENCorp is the major State Government-owned entity in Victoria's privatised energy industry. It is funded by energy industry participants and has major operational, planning and development roles for gas and electricity. VENCorp is:
- the independent system operator for the Victorian gas transmission network;
- manager and developer of the Victorian wholesale gas market;
- system planner, providing planning services for the gas and electricity industries.
Further information about VENCorp and its role in the Victorian energy market can be found on their website at www.vencorp.com.au
Choosing your retailer
The Essential Services Commission of Victoria has developed lists of retailers for residential and small business consumers wishing to shop around as shown on their website and a tool to help you compare energy offers - Energy Comparator. Follow this link to the Energy Comparator on the ESC website http://www.esc.vic.gov.au/