Synergy first became aware of broad over-payment issues in May, two months before the utility told the Government or public about any problems, according to Energy Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson.

Ms Sanderson has been under pressure to explain why it took so long for the public to be told nearly 174,000 customers had been overcharged around $40 million.

The Minister confirmed she was made aware of the extent of the issue in September, weeks before the public were informed.

But speaking on Wednesday, Ms Sanderson revealed Synergy began investigating a broader issue in May.

“The information that I have from Synergy is that they started the broader investigation in around May, when they were notified by Services Australia,” she said.

“I was notified by Synergy in July.”

The issue was fir

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