Tariff Design Working Group - Helping shape future network tariffs

Most people don't spend much time thinking about network tariffs.

But as the way Tasmanians use electricity continues to change, tariffs are becoming an increasingly important part of the conversation about our energy future.

That's why TasNetworks established the Tariff Design Working Group (TDWG), bringing together customers, community representatives, consumer advocates and industry participants to explore the opportunities and challenges facing Tasmania's electricity network.

The group provides a forum for people with different experiences and perspectives to learn more about network pricing, ask questions and share their views on what matters most to customers.

While network tariffs can be a complex topic, the discussions often come back to some simple questions.

What is fair?

How can network costs be shared equitably?

How do we support innovation and new technologies without leaving anyone behind?

And how do we balance affordability, reliability and customer choice?

These are not easy questions, and there are often different views around the table.

Members have discussed how emerging technologies such as rooftop solar, batteries and electric vehicles are changing the way customers interact with the network. They've also explored the experiences of customers who may not have the same opportunities to invest in these technologies and what that could mean for future tariff design.

For business customers, conversations have focused on the realities of running a business, including the challenges some face in responding to electricity price signals when their operating hours are largely fixed.

Members have also shared perspectives from regional communities, agriculture and irrigation, highlighting how changing customer needs and operating environments can influence the way electricity is used.

One of the strengths of the group is its willingness to tackle these issues from different angles.

Rather than seeking simple answers, members are encouraged to challenge assumptions, consider trade-offs and explore how decisions made today could affect customers well into the future.

The discussions have highlighted the importance of tariff structures that are fair, understandable and adaptable as customer needs continue to evolve.

Importantly, the group is not about finding solutions in isolation. Insights from the TDWG sit alongside feedback from other engagement activities, helping TasNetworks build a broader understanding of customer and stakeholder expectations.

The group's discussions are also helping shape TasNetworks' thinking as it develops network tariffs for the 2029-34 regulatory period. By testing ideas, exploring customer perspectives and identifying potential opportunities and challenges, members are helping inform the development of TasNetworks' future tariff approach

As Tasmania's energy system continues to change, the Tariff Design Working Group provides a valuable opportunity for customers and stakeholders to contribute to conversations about the future of network pricing and the role it can play in supporting a reliable, affordable and sustainable electricity network.