Australia’s energy system is being reshaped by rooftop solar, home batteries and emerging smart technologies. But are the benefits being shared fairly or are the costs of transition to net zero emissions being moved to those least able to afford it? In the 9 March episode of the SwitchedOn Australia podcast, Gavin Dufty, the St Vincent de Paul Society’s National Director, Energy Policy and Research, examines how these changes are affecting household electricity bills, drawing on years of insight from the Society’s Tariff Tracker project.

As the Australian Energy Market Commission’s draft review sparks debate about new pricing models, Gavin highlights growing concerns that low‑income households and renters may be left behind. While some Australians can reduce their bills through solar power and battery storage, others face rising costs just to stay connected to the grid.

The discussion explores how future pricing might balance reward and responsibility in the nation’s energy transition and what that means for equity and affordability.

visit Energy Podcasts to listen to the episode.