(Julian Smith/AAP PHOTOS) Credit: AAPOne of Australia's biggest energy retailers is reporting a rise in customer bad debts as the cost-of-living crisis bites following the end of federal power bill relief. Asked about customer hardship cases, chief executive Damien Nicks said the company had seen a small increase, as was expected in the year. Federal Labor's bill relief of $450 for households and $475 for small businesses ended in December. AGL provided $27 million in direct financial support for more than 20,000 customers through targeted relief for vulnerable people and state government hardship grants. AGL was looking to line up long-term contracts and getting assets built to support that demand, Mr Nicks said.