September 7, 2021
Expressions of interest are being sought from Queensland and NSW farmers to take part in a study aiming to better understand how they consider and choose electricity tariffs.
Participating farmers will receive a $40 gift card.
The research is a collaboration between the Queensland Farmers’ Federation and the University of Queensland, with funding from Energy Consumers Australia.
QFF CEO Dr Georgina Davis said complex tariff configurations, the limited offering in rural areas, specific access requirements and multiple electricity meters often made it difficult for farmers and agribusinesses to choose the best tariff.
“In order for farmers and agribusinesses to make these important tariff decisions, the agriculture sector requires a better understanding of the challenges around energy use, while also advocating for greater flexibility in the design of tariffs,” Dr Davis said.
“This study will provide farmers with tools to better select and manage electricity tariffs that lead to reductions in electricity costs and opportunities to manage demand.
“It will also provide insights into the role of feed-in tariffs as a motivator or barrier to farmers’ adoption of energy productivity initiatives as well as solar and battery systems, allowing a more strategic design of Distributed Energy Retailer initiatives.”
The project partners are seeking farmers from across Queensland and NSW to undertake a confidential 30-minute phone or Zoom interview with researchers from the University of Queensland during September and October.
“The questions will focus on electricity tariffs, options to change them, energy consumption and generation systems. The results will be used to assist in tariff design and the production of materials to assist farmers in evaluating tariff choices,” Dr Davis said.
“We encourage interested farmers to complete the Expression of Interest form and upload a recent electricity bill by Friday, September 17, and a member of the QFF Energy Savers team will be in touch.”
- External link: Expression Of Interest Form
