HighUtilities1 October 2022
Origin Energy automated billing algorithm systematically overcharges 350,000 customers — $50M+ remediation
Origin Energy
What happened
The Australian Energy Regulator (AER) found that Origin Energy's automated billing system had systematically overcharged approximately 350,000 electricity customers through errors in the algorithm calculating estimated consumption during meter read gaps, the application of tariff change dates, and the handling of solar feed-in credits. The errors compounded over billing cycles. Origin self-reported to the AER after internal audit discovered the pattern.
Outcome
Origin Energy remediating $50M+ to 350,000 affected customers. AER accepted enforceable undertaking. Billing algorithm redesigned and audited.
Cite this incident
https://corporateai.com.au/incidents/origin-billing-2023Quick facts
- Date
- 1 October 2022
- Organisation
- Origin Energy
- Sector
- Utilities
- Severity
- High
- Regulatory bodies
- Australian Energy Regulator (AER)