MORE than one million Victorian households have accessed the fourth round of the Power Saving Bonus, but less than half of Hamilton residents have.

In Hamilton there has been 1459 applications for the Power Saving Bonus out of 5028 properties, whilst in Lowan 9053 out of 29,616 households have applied.

The latest round of the program has seen 40 per cent of Victorians find a better energy deal – with thousands choosing to switch and save by changing their energy deal through the Victorian Energy Compare website.

The Victorian Energy Compare website is an independent comparison website, making it easy for Victorians to find a cheaper offer and keeping big energy retailers in check.

In addition to Victorians comparing their energy online, more than 17,000 Victorian households have received the $250 Power Saving Bonus through a community outreach partner, with 73 per cent of these applicants receiving additional energy affordability advice.

“The best way to lower energy bills is to look for a better offer – that’s why we’re encouraging Victorians to take advantage of another round of the Power Saving Bonus to make sure they are on the best deal ahead of winter,” premier, Daniel Andrews said.

Applications for the payment can be made through the Victorian Energy Compare website, where customers can quickly and easily find the best energy offers in their areas.

The Energy Assistance Program – a free service providing energy consumers experiencing hardship with one-on-one assistance – has helped over 500 applicants to navigate the energy market, apply for eligible grants and concessions, find and switch to better offers and address billing errors.

For those without internet access, over-the-phone and in-person support is available through Community Outreach Partners, including Brotherhood of St Laurence, Ethnic Community Council Victoria, Good Shepherd, State Trustees and hundreds of Neighbourhood Houses across Victoria.

Victorians can also save on their household energy bills through the $1.3 billion Solar Homes Program. Households that accessed both solar panel and hot water rebates saved up to $1500 on their annual energy bill.

“We’re helping Victorians take more control over their energy bills and helping to bring down the cost of power, with our record investment in renewables and bringing back state owned government energy through the SEC,” minister for energy and resources, Lily D’Ambrosio said.

To access the $250 Power Saving Bonus, visit compare.energy.vic.gov.au