One of Australia’s largest energy providers is sacking almost seven per cent of its workforce as it battles crippling power price rises that are hurting the nation’s households.

EnergyAustralia has appointed global professional services firm Alvarez & Marsal and plans on cutting about 150 roles across several parts of the business.

The company, which is owned by Hong Kong-based CLP Group, has struggled with a dwindling customer base, declining earnings and heightened competition in the sector.

EnergyAustralia’s customer base has fallen by 163,000 accounts since 2022, including about 99,000 in the 12 months ended June.

The company also plans on closing its Yallourn coal fired generator in 2028.

A spokesperson confirmed the sackings in a statement to News24.com.au.

“The energy market is changing quickly and we have brought in outside expertise to test our thinking and learn from what’s worked elsewhere,” the spokesperson said.

“We are looking at how we’re set up so we can compete well and keep delivering for our customers.

“Around 150 roles have been impacted to date across our business.”

EnergyAustralia came under fire earlier this year when the consumer watchdog revealed the company failed to uphold the government’s promise of three hours of free electricity during the day.

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission said EnergyAustralia did not offer eligible households in New South Wales, South Australia and South East Queensland access to a Solar Sharer Offer.

The government scheme was established to help households struggling with power bills, provided they could shift their electricity use to the three-hour free usage period.

EnergyAustralia failed to make the offer available to customers from July 1, instead only implementing it from August 3.

The Solar Sharer Offer provides eligible households with smart metres free electricity usage when solar generation peaks.

The three-hour period runs from 11am to 2pm in NSW and South East Queensland and from 12pm to 3pm in South Australia.

EnergyAustralia will continue offering the Solar Share Offer to consumers and report to the ACCC and the Australian Energy Regulator on its compliance with the scheme.

The retailer will also train staff to assist customers asking about the offer and will publish and maintain a notice on its website.

Read related topics:Australian businessEnergy crisis