Tasmanians Cut Power Bills with Aurora Energy's Free 'Power Hours' Program
In a clever response to the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, Tasmanians are embracing a household hack that offers completely free electricity for essential tasks like washing, cooking, and charging electric vehicles. This innovative approach is made possible through Aurora Energy's Power Hours program, accessible via the aurora+ app.
How Power Hours Work
Will Barbour, Chief Customer Officer at Aurora Energy, explains that Power Hours are regular events providing free electricity to residential customers across the state. There is no cost to sign up; users simply log into the app, select a timeslot, and any electricity consumed during that period is free. Barbour notes that about 100,000 Tasmanians are already taking advantage of these savings.
"At home, we make sure we do a couple of loads of washing, use the oven, charge power tools, that sort of thing," Barbour says, highlighting the practical benefits for everyday households.
Electric Vehicle Charging Benefits
The program is particularly valuable for electric vehicle (EV) owners, as soaring fuel prices drive increased interest in EVs. Barbour points out that many customers are enquiring about EVs, prompting Aurora Energy to create Generation You, an online information hub. One section, "The Charger," focuses entirely on EV charging, covering topics from Tasmania's expanding charging network to installation tips for home units.
Barbour emphasizes that combining Power Hours with off-peak tariffs, such as Tariff 93, can lead to significant household savings. Off-peak rates are more than 50 percent cheaper than peak rates and are available 73 percent of the week, including all weekends and overnight from 9 PM.
Winter Warmers and Energy Efficiency
Recognizing that Tasmanians use more electricity in winter due to the climate, Aurora Energy is extending Power Hours with weekly Winter Warmers to help reduce bill shock. Barbour adds that the Generation You hub includes "The Smarter" category, which offers advice on using home appliances sensibly, such as timing dishwashers or optimizing heat pumps during off-peak hours.
"The information in Generation You seeks to help Tasmanians understand some of those savings and create those little habits that can make a significant difference over a year," Barbour says.
Overall, this initiative not only provides immediate financial relief but also promotes energy literacy and sustainable practices among residents.
