Energy price rule changes to limit unfair bill hikes

New rules will help time-poor consumers get the best electricity plan and avoid bill shock. (Jono Searle/AAP PHOTOS)

Energy retailers will be barred from raising bills more than once a year and will be forced to remove unfair fees for vulnerable customers under new rules announced by the market rule-maker.

The move will help reduce the complexity and opacity of the poorly understood electricity system, and prevent customers from being ripped off, Energy Minister Chris Bowen said.