Bulk-buy deal: Power for the people

By Michelle Herbison
OCEAN Grove and Barwon Heads are set for the region’s best bulk-buy power deal yet, according to a spokesperson.
Powergroup Purchasing’s Chris Kechagias said Power Direct had offered the towns’ bulk-buy group a rate five per cent cheaper than Portarlington’s deal.
Mr Kechagias said the towns’ community associations were preparing to finalise the deal after receiving only two tender offers.
“This offer is very competitive. We’re hoping to better the last group deal, which was offered in Portarlington with AGL, but negotiations are still being finalised.”
The Independent reported in March that Ocean Grove and Barwon Heads would try a group-buy project after noting the success of Portarlington. The concept allows power companies to offer groups rates cheaper than available to individuals.
“The whole program is about getting a really good deal and giving everyone that opportunity to benchmark it if they like it,” Mr Kechagias said.
About 560 residents had expressed interest in the Ocean Grove-Barwon Heads deal so far, he said.
More than 500 residents expressed interest at Portarlington.
“The potential was reached at Portarlington but Ocean Grove and Barwon Heads is a much bigger community,” Mr Kechagias said.
Ocean Grove Community Association’s Michael Harbour expected to finalise a deal soon.
“We need to look at any conditions they put on it, not just the cost savings before we go through it and say its fine.”