Single dad hit with more than double usual power bill as prices stay high

Single dad Craig Souter experienced major bill shock when his power bill jumped from $600 to over $1,400, more than double his previous highest bill
Power prices have soared in recent years, driving up benchmark default market offers set by regulators that act as a reference for other prices
Wholesale costs have fallen from peaks but remain high, and rising interest rates and inflation push up network costs for poles and wires
Analysts say upcoming benchmark price decisions likely to only shift a few percent up or down compared to now
Consumers urged to shop around for deals rather than expect major decreases in prices