More than 600 locals searching for a reduced rate on their overblown energy bills have signed up for the switch since the campaign began on June 7.

The shocking average of $3973 per year paid by those who have signed up is the equivalent of nearly $1000 per bill.

In comparison, the Independent Pricing and Regulator Tribunal (IPART), revealed yesterday the average annual power bill for Origin or Essential Energy residential customers was $2399. 

The average for small businesses is $3355 per annum.

One Big Switch director Christopher Zinn said it was important to consider those signing up for the campaign were likely to be those with the largest bills and more of an impetus to save. 

However, he said the enormous difference between the averages was all the more reason for residents to search for a better deal.

“It’s clear people are paying very high bills in Griffith, particularly after the price increase we saw last year,” Mr Zinn said.

Following the 21 per cent increase it allowed in 2012/13, IPART released its proposed pricing to providers this week, recommending a 0.7 per cent drop for Essential Energy customers.

The drop equates to about $17 per household and $23 for a small business per year.

“IPART is obviously mindful of the pressures people are facing and that has translated to a modest decrease in pricing,” Mr Zinn said.

“Of course, the damage was done last year and that price increase will continue to hurt local families.

“The good news is, it looks like scary price increases are a thing of the past. Any increases that are coming through now will be put in place to help encourage competition among retailers.”

Go to www.bigelectricityswitch.com or phone 1300 131 639 to register your details for the Big Griffith Switch.