A TECHNICAL glitch has meant massive AGL bills for unsuspecting customers across NSW, including the northern beaches.

A computer error has been blamed for more than 200,000 customers receiving astronomical bills in the mail, combining almost a year of uncharged electricity and gas use into one payment.

Some customers have been slugged with bills of at least $650, almost four times the regular $150 charge, after not receiving their accounts for nine months.

An AGL spokeswoman confirmed the huge bills were caused by an IT error related to metering while the utility company was in the process of rolling out a new ``more streamlined and efficient service''.

Collaroy Plateau resident Frank Ellis said he was furious when he received his bill for $650.

``Like most people I pay my accounts as I receive them and never go looking for more,'' he said. ``I couldn't believe it when I received the huge bill for nine months' worth of electricity and gas last week.

``I received an apology letter from AGL which said the large bill was caused by an `unexpected delay in their billing system'.

``I wonder if AGL would be happy for me to pay this bill in nine months time due to an unexpected delay in our financial position?''

The AGL spokeswoman stated: ``AGL sincerely regrets the inconvenience caused to our customers. AGL is in the process of rolling out its new customer management and billing system utilising SAP technology which aims to provide a more streamlined and efficient service for our customers in the future.''

Customers who will have trouble making the payment should phone the Customer Contact Centre on 1300556105.

Reporter : mehdi akbarsefat

َApproved by : Story Id 28

Create date : 29 Apr 2008 13:49

Id : 3254

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