COTA SA welcomes the opportunity to contribute to the consultation on the Retailer Energy Productivity Scheme (REPS) 2026–2030 issue paper.

REPS is an important mechanism for delivering energy productivity improvements that reduce energy costs and greenhouse gas emissions, particularly for low-income households. We are pleased to provide feedback on matters that can enhance REPS in its next five-year period, ensuring that older South Australians benefit from increased energy efficiency and cost savings.

Endorsement of REPS Objectives

COTA SA supports the overall objective of REPS to improve energy productivity for households and businesses, with a focus on low-income households. We strongly advocate for measures that reduce energy costs, mitigate climate change impacts, and enhance the resilience of vulnerable households, particularly older South Australians on fixed or low incomes.

Set Higher Targets and Increase Subtargets for Priority Groups

COTA SA recommends increasing both the overall REPS2 targets and the subtargets for priority group households to ensure that more low-income and vulnerable households benefit from the scheme. Many older South Australians fall within this priority group, including those receiving the SA Energy Bill Concession, renters, and those participating in hardship programs.

More efficient appliances and improved energy productivity can reduce electricity costs, which is critical in the context of increasing heatwaves and extreme weather events exacerbated by climate change. Setting higher subtargets will deliver stronger outcomes for priority group households and reduce cost-of-living pressures.