Here are some of the cheapest electricity deals from the retailers on our database that include a link to the retailer’s website for further details. These are products from referral partners†. These costs are based on the Ausgrid network in Sydney but prices may vary depending on your circumstances. We show one product per retailer, listed in order of lowest price first and then in alphabetical order. This comparison assumes general energy usage of 3900kWh/year for a residential customer on a single rate tariff. Use our comparison tool above for a specific energy comparison in your area. Our database may not cover all deals in your area. As always, check all details of any plan directly with the retailer before making a purchase decision.
At Canstar Blue, we compare electricity plans from 36 providers across Australia to help you find a better deal. Prices are updated as soon as we are made aware of changes. We also publish customer satisfaction ratings to help you compare providers on factors including customer service, billing and value for money.
Our electricity comparison site includes a unique ‘value score’ feature that lists plans based on which offer the best overall value, rather than just the cheapest prices. The value score is a rating out of 10, combining price and features data to help you make an informed decision about your next electricity provider.
Click here for more details on our pricing and value scores methodology.
Canstar Blue compares plans and prices from 36 electricity providers across NSW, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia and the ACT. Providers compared are:
Not all providers operate in all states.
Our electricity comparison site is free to use, and we’ll never ask for your phone number!
Canstar Blue exists to help you compare electricity plans on the premise of both price and overall best value. By inputting a few details about your location and electricity usage, our comparison tool will present you with estimated prices from a range of retailers available in your area to help you choose a better value plan.
To compare electricity plans, enter your postcode into our comparison tool and select your suburb from the drop-down list. If you have a recent bill handy, you can input your energy usage details for the most accurate quotes. If you don’t have a bill, you can fill out our questionnaire to see estimated quotes based on the information provided.
When comparing electricity plans on Canstar Blue, you’ll be guided to answer questions such as how many people live in your home, whether you have a gas connection or pool, and whether you have a controlled load, in order to show the plans and prices most relevant to you. At no point do you have to enter your mobile number.
You will see a list of some of the electricity plans available in your area. By clicking on two or three of them, you can use our three-way compare tool to dive deeper into the specific details of each plan. This allows you to directly compare the usage and supply rates, as well as any discounts and solar feed-in tariffs that may be available.
We are not a sales agent for energy retailers and we do not sell directly to consumers. Canstar Blue is a comparison site that enables consumers to freely compare energy offers in their area based on published pricing from energy retailers.
Our aim is to show as much of the energy market as possible to help you make an informed decision about which provider is best for you, based on price but also customer satisfaction and other features.
From Canstar Blue Editor-in-Chief, Simon Downes
“Canstar Blue gives Aussies the power to find a better deal across more than 100 different goods and services – but helping consumers find a better energy deal is one of our greatest passions. We do this by publishing detailed energy price comparison tables to show you where to find the cheapest prices in your area, as well as providing detailed guides on the energy providers competing for your business, so you can make an informed decision about which best meets your needs as a customer.
“On this page, you’ll find a comprehensive guide to the energy providers and prices currently on offer in NSW, Victoria, South Australia, Queensland, the ACT, Tasmania and Western Australia. We’ll also explain everything you need to know about comparing energy in these areas, including what options are available to you, the kinds of plans you can expect to find, as well as details on the regulated price caps in your area.
“Comparing energy providers and plans has long had a reputation as a difficult, confusing thing to do. But at Canstar Blue, we’re experts in making sense of the complicated, and there’s nothing we know more about than energy. Read on for details in your area – and please get in touch with any feedback you have because we’re always trying to make our website better.”
The pricing below is based on a selected postcode in each state and compared to the Reference Price or Victorian Default Offer (VDO). Use our comparison tool for specific pricing in your area.
1st Energy operates across Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland and Tasmania, with one or two electricity market offers in each state. It is one of several retailers that uses large conditional discounts as its main market tool and often provides the biggest headlines discounts in each state that it services. But keep in mind that the biggest discounts don’t always mean the biggest savings. When it comes to 1st Energy, discounts are conditional on paying bills in full and on time. In most cases, discounts are ongoing. All plans have variable rates. 1st Energy also has a solar specific plan in Tasmania with a seemingly generous feed-in tariff.
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
1st Saver Conditional Discounts
|
Equal To Reference Price^^ | $1,370 incl. conditional discount |
More Details |
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**^^View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated˜) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
1st Saver Conditional Discounts
|
6% MoreThan VDO› | $1,318 incl. conditional discount |
More Details |
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˜›View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
1st Saver Conditional Discounts
|
EqualTo Reference Price^^ | $1,493 incl. conditional discount |
More Details |
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**^^View important information |
Brand | Features | Benefit Period | Annual Cost** | |
---|---|---|---|---|
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|
1 Year | $2,165 | More Details |
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**^^View important information |
ActewAGL is a joint-venture between the ACT government and AGL, with the retailer dominating the ACT residential market, while also operating in parts of NSW. ActewAGL is also associated with EvoEnergy, the energy distributor for the majority of the territory, responsible for maintaining the poles, wires, meters and all other components that make it possible to deliver power to your home. ActewAGL usually has two or three market electricity offers depending on the area, usually with discounts, but the some discounts are conditional on the basis that you make direct debit payments. Please keep in mind that ActewAGL has multiple variations of its plans, based on different tariffs.
Brand | Features | Benefit Period | Annual Cost** | |
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
|
$1,543 | More Details | |
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**^^View important information |
Energy giant AGL provides two to three electricity market offers across Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia and Queensland. These include one fixed rate plans plus one variable rate product. In Victoria, AGL also has a prepaid electricity plan whereby customers are rewarded with cheaper bills based on how much they prepay on their account. Post July 1, AGL stopped offering plans with conditional discounts, instead opting for bill credits on some of its plans. AGL frequently offers online sign-up credit which varies between states and one of its big selling points is that customers can collect flybuys points by paying their bills on time. All AGL customers will also receive access to AGL Rewards.
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Essentials Saver No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
13% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,276 |
More Details |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Essentials Plus No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
12% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,290 |
More Details |
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**^^View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated˜) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
Essentials Saver No Conditional Discounts |
10% LessThan VDO› | $1,201 | More Details |
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
Essentials No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
8% LessThan VDO› | $1,227 | More Details |
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˜›View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Essentials Saver No Conditional Discounts
|
12% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,382 |
More Details |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Essentials Plus No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
8% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,437 |
More Details |
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**^^View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Essentials Saver No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
13% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,688 |
More Details |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Essentials Plus No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
12% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,708 |
More Details |
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**^^View important information |
Alinta Energy is one of Australia’s fastest growing electricity retailers – if not the fastest growing – and has an apparent focus on low prices rather than any additional incentives like some retailers. Alinta Energy typically provides one or two residential market offers across NSW, VIC, QLD and SA. In NSW, QLD and SA, Alinta is offering its No Fuss plan and in VIC a plan named Real Deal. All products have no conditional discounts and variable rates. In QLD, customers can also sign up to the No Fuss solar specific product which comes with a slightly higher solar feed-in tariff. Alinta has quickly expanded across Australia and is often one of the cheapest retailers in each state. But prices can and do change frequently, so make sure you shop around.
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts |
11% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,311 | Go To Site |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts |
8% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,350 | Go To Site |
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**^^View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated˜) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
Equal To VDO› |
$1,334 | Go To Site |
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
Equal To VDO› |
$1,334 | Go To Site |
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˜›View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts |
15% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,340 | Go To Site |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
Ongoing Benefit Period |
$1,366 | Go To Site |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
11% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,398 | Go To Site |
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**^^View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts |
9% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,766 | Go To Site |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
7% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,809 | Go To Site |
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**^^View important information |
The company may be better known as a phone plan provider, but Amaysim Energy is now also looking to win over the electricity accounts of its customers. It’s trying to do this by promoting itself as a convenient, hassle-free alternative to the big boys. This means no “confusing” conditional discounts, no lock-in contracts and no exit fees. This is in contrast to its previous attempts to attract customers through large pay on time discounts. Amaysim now offers two variable rate market contracts, one of which is a specific deal for solar customers, bringing some relatively generous feed-in tariffs. These are the Electricity As You Go plan and Solar As You Go respectively. Amaysim Energy operates in Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland and South Australia. In Victoria, it also offers a prepaid subscription style plan.
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Electricity As You Go No Conditional Discounts |
1% MoreThan Reference Price^^ | $1,475 | More Details |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Solar As You Go No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
OngoingBenefit Period | $1,475 |
More Details |
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**^^View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated˜) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
Electricity As You Go No Conditional Discounts |
8% MoreThan VDO› | $1,442 |
More Details |
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
Solar As You Go No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
OngoingBenefit Period | $1,442 |
More Details |
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˜›View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Electricity As You Go No Conditional Discounts |
2% MoreThan Reference Price^^ | $1,605 |
More Details |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Solar As You Go No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
OngoingBenefit Period | $1,605 |
More Details |
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**^^View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Electricity As You Go No Conditional Discounts |
1% More Than Reference Price^^ | $1,950 |
More Details |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Solar As You Go No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
OngoingBenefit Period | $2,023 |
More Details |
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**^^View important information |
Aurora Energy is a state-owned electricity and gas retailer in Tasmania. Until recently, it was the only residential electricity provider in Tasmania, but this changed in early 2019 when 1st Energy became its first challenger. Aurora Energy provides a range of tariff options for Tasmania households, but its one market offer does not generally include any discounts. However, customers who sign up for direct debit billing may be eligible to receive a direct debit discount of 5.5 cents per day (inc. GST). That works out to about $20 a year.
Brand | Features | Benefit Period | Annual Cost** | |
---|---|---|---|---|
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|
Ongoing | $2,265 | More Details |
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**^^View important information |
Click Energy typically has one main market offer in each state that it serves – Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland and South Australia – in addition to one or two specific offers for solar customers in each area. Click Energy has a habit of changing its main market offer fairly regularly, but the basics usually stay the same – mainly that it provides large conditional discounts. This changed after the introduction of the Victorian Default Offer and Reference Price, where Click now has no conditional discounts on any of its plans. Click Energy is also one of the most active electricity providers when it comes to promotional offers and other sign-up incentives, frequently offering $50 gift cards and the like. All plans have variable rates.
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
9% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,335 | Go To Site |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts |
7% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,364 | Go To Site |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
OngoingBenefit Period | $1,467 | Go To Site |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts |
EqualTo Reference Price^^ | $1,467 | Go To Site |
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**^^View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated˜) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
3% LessThan VDO› | $1,293 | Go To Site |
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
No Conditional Discounts |
1% LessThan VDO› | $1,320 | Go To Site |
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
OngoingBenefit Period | $1,333 | Go To Site |
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
No Conditional Discounts |
EqualTo VDO› | $1,334 | Go To Site |
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˜›View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts |
17% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,303 | Go To Site |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
OngoingBenefit Period | $1,570 | Go To Site |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts |
EqualTo Reference Price^^ | $1,570 | Go To Site |
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**^^View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
3% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,882 | Go To Site |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts |
1% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,921 | Go To Site |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
OngoingBenefit Period | $1,940 | Go To Site |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts |
EqualTo Reference Price^^ | $1,940 | Go To Site |
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**^^View important information |
Commander is a business and residential electricity retailer servicing NSW, SA and Victoria. It only has one market contract on offer in each jurisdiction, aptly named ‘Market Offer’. The deal doesn’t have any conditional discounts and it’s on a no-contract term, so customers should be free to come and go as they please. Commander also sells phone, internet and mobile services. This allows customers to bundle their electricity and telco services, saving them the hassle of juggling multiple utilities accounts with various providers.
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Market Offer No Conditional Discounts |
4% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,411 | More Details |
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**^^View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated˜) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
Market Offer No Conditional Discounts |
10% LessThan VDO› | $1,200 | More Details |
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
Victorian Default Offer No Conditional Discounts |
3% MoreThan VDO› | $1,373 | More Details |
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˜›View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Market Offer No Conditional Discounts |
5% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,837 | More Details |
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**^^View important information |
CovaU is one of a few residential power providers that began life solely servicing businesses, but has now gone more mainstream in retailing electricity to homes in New South Wales and Victoria. It also provides mobile phone plans, but when it comes to electricity, CovaU is like many retailers in that its main selling point appears to be large conditional discounts, which can be as large as 34% in Victoria. CovaU also offers a rewards program which could result in savings on things like eating out, cinema tickets, theme park tickets and gift cards.
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Freedom Conditional Discounts
Other Features:
|
23% MoreThan Reference Price^^ | $1,352 incl. conditional discount |
More Details |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Freedom Solar Conditional Discounts
Other Features
|
OngoingBenefit Period | $1,441 incl. conditional discount |
More Details |
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**^^View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated˜) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
Victorian Default Offer No Conditional Discounts |
EqualTo VDO› | $1,334 | More Details |
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
Smart Saver Conditional Discounts
|
49% MoreThan VDO› | $1,473 incl. conditional discount |
More Details |
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
Smart Saver Solar Conditional Discounts
Other Features:
|
1 YearBenefit Period | $1,626 incl. conditional discount |
More Details |
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˜›View important information |
DC Power Co is an electricity provider that cater its offerings towards customers with solar panels. It currently operates in NSW, VIC and QLD, with one market offer in each of these states. Something to note about DC Power Co is that it operates in partnership with carbon neutral and green-friendly electricity retailer Powershop. Although you don’t need to have solar panels to sign up to DC Power Co, this provider’s market plan provides the most value to those that do, with solar system optimisation tips also available.
Brand | Features | Price(estimated˜) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
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Market Offer No Conditional Discounts |
5% MoreThan VDO› | $1,404 | More Details |
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Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
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Market Offer No Conditional Discounts |
4% MoreThan Reference Price^^ | $1,531 | More Details |
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**^^View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
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Market Offer No Conditional Discounts |
21% MoreThan Reference Price^^ | $1,905 | More Details |
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**^^View important information |
An electricity retailer that specialises in solar power, Diamond Energy is consistently ranked as one of the greenest energy companies in Australia, thanks largely to its ownership of renewable energy generation assets. Diamond Energy services homes across New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia, with just a single residential market offer usually available. This is called, quite fittingly, the Diamond Power plan, and comes with a conditional discount of 7% for paying on time, with a further 3% off for setting up direct debit. While these discounts are consistent across all states in which it serves, it’s worth noting that base rates differ. Diamond Energy may also have available a solar-specific product that provides a generous solar feed-in tariff.
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Everyday Renewable Saver Conditional Discounts
|
5% MoreThan Reference Price^^ | $1,388 incl. conditional discount |
More Details |
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**^^View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated˜) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
Diamond Conditional Discounts
|
12% MoreThan VDO› | $1,351 incl. conditional discount |
More Details |
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˜›View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Everyday Renewable Saver Conditional Discounts
|
1% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,399 incl. conditional discount |
More Details |
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**^^View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Diamond Standard No Conditional Discounts |
1% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,914 |
More Details |
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**^^View important information |
Newcomer on the block, Discover Energy, is an electricity and solar provider for customers in New South Wales, Queensland and South Australia. The company claims to be ‘100% Australian-owned’, putting green energy at the ‘forefront of its business’. Discover Energy generally offers two or three market offers in the states it services, giving customers a guaranteed discount off usage charges, as well as competitive electricity rates.
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
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Ultimate Offer No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
15% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,249 | More Details |
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Economy No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
12% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,294 | More Details |
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Solar Boost No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
OngoingBenefit Period | $1,479 | More Details |
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**^^View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
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Ultimate Offer No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
11% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,404 | More Details |
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Economy No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
8% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,440 | More Details |
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Solar Boost No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
OngoingBenefit Period | $1,585 | More Details |
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**^^View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
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Ultimate Offer No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
10% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,741 | More Details |
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Economy No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
9% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,772 | More Details |
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**^^View important information |
Perhaps better-known as a phone and internet provider, Dodo also wants to sell you electricity and gas. Dodo Power & Gas operates across New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland and South Australia, with just a single market offer in each state. Depending on the state you’re in, you could be looking at a sizeable amount off the reference price. In the past, conditional discounts of up to 40% have been available from Dodo, namely in Victoria, but like many others, the retailer has moved on to provide no conditional discounts, just lower base rates.
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Market Offer No Conditional Discounts |
4% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,411 | More Details |
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**^^View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated˜) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
Market Offer No Conditional Discounts |
10% LessThan VDO› | $1,200 | More Details |
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˜›View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Market Offer No Conditional Discounts |
6% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,472 | More Details |
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**^^View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Market Offer No Conditional Discounts |
5% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,835 | More Details |
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**^^View important information |
One of a new breed of energy retailer, Elysian Energy provides prepaid power options for customers in Victoria. The idea is that households select one of four prepaid packs with varying amounts of power to use each month. These include either 200kWh, 400kWh, 800kWh or 1,200kWh, with Elysian shifting customers onto the most appropriate plan once their usage needs are understood. There are no discounts involved with Elysian Energy, although it does offer a refer a friend deal that sees existing customers pocket $30 in power credit when their friend signs up.
Brand | Features | Price(estimated˜) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
The Good Life No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
15% LessThan VDO› | $1,136 |
More Details |
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
The Minimalist No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
15% LessThan VDO› | $1,138 |
More Details |
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
A New Chapter No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
14% LessThan VDO› | $1,147 |
More Details |
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
The Full House No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
14% LessThan VDO› | $1,142 | More Details |
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˜›View important information |
One of Australia’s biggest electricity and gas retailers, EnergyAustralia operates across New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia and the ACT. It offers three electricity products in each state, two of which bring fixed usage and supply rates, and all with no conditional discounts. The fixed rate plans, No Frills and Total Plan Home, have benefit periods of 12 months. The biggest difference between the two is that the Total Plan includes a guaranteed/unconditional discount that applies to both usage and supply rates. EA has also recently launched a ‘Basic Home’ power deal with variable rates and no discounts, which sits around the Reference Price/VDO in its respective states.
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
13% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,272 | Go to Site |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
13% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,276 | Go to Site |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts |
EqualTo Reference Price^^ | $1,467 | Go to Site |
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**^^View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated˜) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
6% LessThan VDO› | $1,249 | Go to Site |
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
6% LessThan VDO› | $1,253 | Go to Site |
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
No Conditional Discounts |
EqualTo VDO› | $1,334 | Go to Site |
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˜›View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
11% Less Than Reference Price^^ | $1,397 | Go to Site |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
11% Less Than Reference Price^^ | $1,400 | Go to Site |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts |
1% MoreThan Reference Price^^ | $1,581 | Go to Site |
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**^^View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
6% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,821 | Go to Site |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
6% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,825 | Go to Site |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts |
EqualTo Reference Price^^ | $1,941 | Go to Site |
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**^^View important information |
One of just a few energy retailers that doesn’t get involved in conditional discounts, Energy Locals currently serves New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia and the ACT with a handful of market offers for prospective customers to consider, in addition to a membership-based deal that sees households pay a weekly fee to receive access to cheaper rates. The company claims its purpose is to make energy retail less confusing and to save Aussies from the big power company “fat cats” chasing profits. Energy Locals says it doesn’t profit from the energy usage of customers and never changes its prices for profits.
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Conditional Discounts
|
8% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,268 incl. conditional discount |
Go To Site |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
6% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,376 |
Go To Site |
![]() |
**^^View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated˜) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() |
Conditional Discounts
|
3% LessThan VDO› | $1,214 incl. conditional discount |
Go To Site |
![]() |
No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
3% LessThan VDO› | $1,294 | Go To Site |
![]() |
˜›View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Conditional Discounts
|
EqualTo Reference Price^^ | $1,482 incl. conditional discount |
Go To Site |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
EqualTo Reference Price^^ | $1,562 |
Go To Site |
![]() |
**^^View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Conditional Discounts
|
2% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,822 | Go To Site |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
5% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,849 | Go To Site |
![]() |
**^^View important information |
Enova Energy is a community-owned retailer originating from the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales. The retailer has since expanded, offering electricity services to homes and businesses right across the three distribution networks in NSW. Enova says it’s passionate about renewable energy and giving back to the community. This is encapsulated in its two products, the Community Plus and the Enova Solar Premium. The first plan gives customers a small discount, while the solar deal gives customers a larger feed-in tariff. Enova Energy also has a number of schemes that customers can opt into that support community projects and renewable infrastructure developments. Enova Energy prices below apply to the Ausgrid network only. For more information on annual cost calculations please click here.
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Community Plus Conditional Discounts
|
9% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,308 incl. conditional discount |
More Details |
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**^^View important information |
Future X Power is a new electricity retailer that started servicing customers in NSW and south-east Queensland in 2019. According to its website, you’ll be met with a “transparent and empowering energy retail experience”, which it attributes to its online sign-up feature. This provider is currently offering one market plan in the states in which it operates, which comes with a generous pay on time discount that has an ongoing benefit period. This product also has variable rates and is available on a single rate tariff.
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Flexi Saver Conditional Discounts
|
1% MoreThan Reference Price^^ | $1,265 incl. conditional discount |
More Details |
![]() |
**^^View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Flexi Saver Conditional Discounts
|
1% MoreThan Reference Price^^ | $1,359 incl. conditional discount |
More Details |
![]() |
**^^View important information |
GloBird Energy is a Victoria-based electricity and gas retailer, specialising in offering different plans for households with varying energy usage. It typically offers three electricity products, one with a large conditional discount for paying bills on time and by direct debit, and the other with no discount at all. It also offers a ‘combo’ deal for those who sign up to electricity and gas. Unlike some retailers, GloBird Energy seems purely focused on providing competitive prices rather than any other benefits or incentives. Plans come with variable rates. The retailer has revealed plans to expand to New South Wales and South Australia in the near future.
Brand | Features | Price(estimated˜) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
No Conditional Discounts |
11% LessThan VDO› | $1,186 | Go to Site |
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
Conditional Discounts
|
5% LessThan VDO› | $1,189 incl. conditional discount |
Go to Site |
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
Conditional Discounts
|
2% MoreThan VDO› | $1,346 incl. conditional discount |
Go to Site |
![]() |
˜›View important information |
LPE (Locality Planning Energy) has been operating as an embedded network electricity retailer for some time, but has only recently launched a mainstream retail service for all households on the Energex network in SE QLD, regardless of which type of home they have. It provides just a single market offer with no conditional discounts, just reasonable usage and supply rates.
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Principal Rate No Conditional Discounts |
12% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,381 |
More Details |
![]() |
**^^View important information |
Lumo Energy operates across Victoria and South Australia, offering one of the most diverse ranges of electricity products in the market. Lumo has a fairly standard plan (Lumo Value) with conditional discounts for paying bills on time. Its more tailored plans include Lumo Movers, for those making a switch and wanting to avoid connection/disconnection fees. And in an effort to offer all kinds of electricity plans, the retailer also provides a ‘basic’ product with no conditional discount, just competitive rates. On its Value and Movers plans, discounts are ongoing but usage and supply rates are variable. Lumo Energy also has a rewards program called Lumo Ameego which can bring special deals on a range of leisure activities for eligible customers.
Brand | Features | Price(estimated˜) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
Conditional Discounts
|
4% Less Than VDO› | $1,237 incl. conditional discount |
Go To Site |
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
Conditional Discounts
|
2% Less Than VDO› | $1,273 incl. conditional discount |
Go To Site |
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
No Conditional Discounts |
4% Less Than VDO› | $1,276 | Go To Site |
![]() |
˜›View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts |
5% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,835 | Go To Site |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts |
3% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,884 | Go To Site |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts |
3% MoreThan Reference Price^^ | $1,990 | Go To Site |
![]() |
**^^View important information |
Another solar-focused energy retailer, Mojo Power claims to have some of the best feed-in tariffs on the market. Its unique selling point is that customers have access to ‘wholesale’ electricity rates, only after they pay an annual membership fee. It’s also one of a few companies that really promotes the benefit of smart meters and digital energy monitoring so customers can better understand their bills and power usage habits. Mojo Power operates in New South Wales and Queensland.
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Energy Without Benefits No Conditional Discounts |
Equal To Reference Price^^ |
$1,461 |
More Details |
![]() |
**^^View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Energy Without Benefits No Conditional Discounts |
Equal To Reference Price^^ |
$1,569 |
More Details |
![]() |
**^^View important information |
An electricity retailer with a clear focus on renewable energy generation, Momentum Energy serves homes in Victoria, New South Wales and South Australia, with just one market offer for its prospective customers to consider (excluding Victoria). Owned by Hydro Tasmania, Momentum Energy claims to be a provider that cares about competitive prices rather than big discounts or any other gimmicks. Openly opposed to big discounts, Momentum Energy holds itself as an alternative to the big power retailers, speaking in “plain English” and making rates easy to compare.
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts |
12% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,291 | Go To Site |
![]() |
**^^View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated˜) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
11% LessThan VDO› | $1,189 | Go To Site |
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
No Conditional Discounts |
EqualTo VDO› | $1,332 | Go To Site |
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
No Conditional Discounts |
10% MoreThan VDO› | $1,465 | Go To Site |
![]() |
˜›View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts |
9% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,769 | Go To Site |
![]() |
**^^View important information |
Australia’s biggest energy retailer, Origin Energy operates across Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia, Queensland and the ACT, with a diverse product range to choose from. In most areas, the company’s plans consist of three variable rate options, with varying unconditional discounts. However, in some cases customers may need to pay by direct debit to get the best deal. Those who sign up online may also get additional discount. Origin also generally offers solar customers two specific products and is active in the installation of solar rooftop panels. It is also one of the most active with regards to digital energy monitoring and helping households better understand their usage.
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Max Saver – Online Special No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
17% Less Than Reference Price^^ | $1,217 |
More Details |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Max Saver No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
16% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,232 |
More Details |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Flexi No Conditional Discounts |
14% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,261 |
More Details |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Freedom No Conditional Discounts |
9% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,335 |
More Details |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Solar Boost Plus Conditional Discounts
Other Features:
|
1 YearBenefit Period | $1,444 incl. conditional discount |
More Details |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Basic No Conditional Discounts |
EqualTo Reference Price^^ | $1,467 |
More Details |
![]() |
**^^View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated˜) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
Max Saver – Online Special No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
6% LessThan VDO> | $1,253 |
More Details |
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
Max Saver No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
5% LessThan VDO> | $1,267 | More Details |
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
Flexi No Conditional Discounts |
3% LessThan VDO> | $1,294 |
More Details |
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
Solar Boost Plus Conditional Discounts
Other Features:
|
2 YearBenefit Period | $1,322 incl. conditional discount |
More Details |
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
Basic No Conditional Discounts |
Equal To VDO> | $1,334 | More Details |
![]() |
˜›View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Max Saver – Online Special No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
16% Less Than Reference Price^^ | $1,319 |
More Details |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Max Saver No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
15% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,334 |
More Details |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Flexi No Conditional Discounts |
9% LessThan Reference price^^ | $1,429 |
More Details |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Freedom No Conditional Discounts |
4% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,507 |
More Details |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Solar Boost Plus Conditional Discounts
Other Features:
|
2 YearBenefit Period | $1,558 incl. conditional discount |
More Details |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Basic No Conditional Discounts |
EqualTo Reference Price^^ | $1,570 |
More Details |
![]() |
**^^View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Max Saver – Online Special No Conditional Discounts
|
15% Less Than Reference Price^^ | $1,650 |
More Details |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Max Saver No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
14% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,669 |
More Details |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Flexi No Conditional Discounts |
12% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,708 |
More Details |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Freedom No Conditional Discounts |
10% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,747 |
More Details |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Solar Boost Plus Conditional Discounts
Other Features:
|
1 YearBenefit Period | $1,796 incl. conditional discount |
More Details |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Basic No Conditional Discounts |
EqualTo Reference Price^^ | $1,941 |
More Details |
![]() |
**^^View important information |
People Energy operates solely in Victoria. The retailer typically has a few market offers, the first of which gives customers a large discount, however it only applies to the usage charge component of the bill. The other plan has a smaller discount, but this applies to the entire bill. People Energy also offers a Victorian Default Offer that has no discounts and is currently equal to the VDO.
Brand | Features | Price(estimated˜) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
Victorian Default OFfer No Conditional Discounts |
EqualTo VDO› | $1,334 | More Details |
![]() |
˜›View important information |
Pooled Energy is not your ordinary electricity retailer. In fact, as the name suggests, this retailer specialises in swimming pools. Pooled Energy offers NSW residents a comprehensive pool care package to keep your pool crystal clear all year long with little to no effort on your part. The deal includes sensors, controllers, filters, pumps and chemical management systems. Pooled Energy also takes over your energy account in order to ‘optimise’ the rates and tariffs for pool owners. Pooled Energy only sells electricity as part of its automated care package. It does not sell electricity as an independent product and there are other fees attached to its services, like a monthly subscription and chemical top-up.
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Market Offer No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
EqualTo Reference Price^^ | $1,467 |
More Details |
![]() |
**^^View important information |
Powerclub does things a little differently when it comes to its energy plans, offering households ‘wholesale’ electricity prices instead of charging set rates. This does, however, come with a catch – customers will need to pay an annual fee to gain access to the cheaper wholesale prices. Powerclub is currently available in Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland and South Australia.
Brand | Features | Price(estimated˜) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() |
Powerbank Home Flat No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
12% LessThan VDO› | $1,177 | More Details |
![]() |
˜›View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() |
Powerbank Home Flat No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
23% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,133 | More Details |
![]() |
**^^View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() |
Powerbank Home Flat No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
23% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,207 | More Details |
![]() |
**^^View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() |
Powerbank Home Flat No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
20% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,554 | More Details |
![]() |
**^^View important information |
Backed by AGL, Powerdirect is an energy company that previously focused on business energy retail before launching more prominently into the consumer electricity market in recent times. It operates across Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland and South Australia, with just a single market offer in each state. This includes an unconditional discount on the plan, which varies between states. The discount applies to usage and supply charges and has a benefit period of 24 months. In Victoria, there are no discounts, but rates are fixed for 12 months.
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Discount Saver No Conditional Discounts |
14% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,258 | More Details |
![]() |
**^^View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated˜) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
Rate Saver No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
10% LessThan VDO› | $1,200 | More Details |
![]() |
˜›View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Discount Saver No Conditional Discounts |
12% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,377 | More Details |
![]() |
**^^View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Discount Saver No Conditional Discounts |
10% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,739 | More Details |
![]() |
**^^View important information |
Something of a unique proposition in the Australian energy market, Powershop operates an online ‘shop’ for customers to purchase special power deals in order to reduce their costs. Powerpacks can be purchased for future use, allowing customers to budget ahead of schedule. Powershop’s other big selling point is its online reporting tools which allow customers to track their energy usage in almost real time. It has a smartphone app for customers to follow their usage history and help them make better informed decisions about their energy usage. Operating in Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland and South Australia, Powershop is also one of the greenest energy companies in the country.
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Conditional Discounts
|
EqualTo Reference Price^^ | $1,247 incl. conditional discount |
Go To Site |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts |
7% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,367 | Go To Site |
![]() |
**^^View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated˜) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
Conditional Discounts
|
17% MoreThan VDO› | $1,199 incl. conditional discount |
Go To Site |
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
No Conditional Discounts |
2% LessThan VDO› | $1,314 | Go To Site |
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
No Conditional Discounts |
Equal To VDO› | $1,334 | Go To Site |
![]() |
˜›View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Conditional Discounts
|
1% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,322 incl. conditional discount |
Go To Site |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts |
11% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,404 | Go To Site |
![]() |
**^^View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Conditional Discounts
|
EqualTo Reference Price^^ | $1,648 incl. conditional discount |
Go To Site |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts |
9% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,775 | Go To Site |
![]() |
**^^View important information |
QEnergy holds itself as a business-focused electricity retailer, but also provides market contracts in Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland and South Australia. It typically offers one or two electricity plans in each state, but has a habit of turning these offers on and off from time to time. When they are publicly available, they tend not to include conditional discounts, just reasonable rates.
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Home Saver Lite Variable No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
11% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,301 | More Details |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Home Saver Variable Other Features:
No Conditional Discounts |
11% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,311 | More Details |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Home Your Way No Conditional Discounts |
EqualTo Reference Price^^ | $1,461 | More Details |
![]() |
**^^View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated˜) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
Home Your Way No Conditional Discounts |
EqualTo VDO› | $1,334 | More Details |
![]() |
˜›View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Home Saver Lite Variable No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
15% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,341 | More Details |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Home Saver Variable No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
13% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,364 | More Details |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Home Your Way No Conditional Discounts |
EqualTo Reference Price^^ | $1,569 | More Details |
![]() |
**^^View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
Home Your Way No Conditional Discounts |
EqualTo Reference Price^^ | $1,933 | More Details |
![]() |
**^^View important information |
One of the newest electricity providers in the country, ReAmped Energy operates in NSW and QLD with two market offers for customers to consider depending on where you live. Based in Brisbane, ReAmped Energy claims a 100% only business model which seems to allow it to offer some of the most competitive usage rates in both states. Its market offers come with no conditional discounts, just competitive rates. And you won’t get any other sign-up incentives from ReAmped Energy which markets itself as keeping things really simple.
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts |
19% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,188 |
Go To Site |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts |
16% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,229 |
Go To Site |
![]() |
**^^View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts |
18% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,290 | Go To Site |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts |
16% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,320 |
Go To Site |
![]() |
**^^View important information |
Owned by renewable energy generation company Snowy Hydro, Red Energy has become one of the biggest challengers to the likes of AGL, Origin and EnergyAustralia across the states that it serves. It operates in Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland and South Australia, with three electricity offers for prospective customers to consider. Red Energy’s biggest selling point is its deal with Qantas which allows customers to earn frequent flyer points by paying their bills on time. The number of points on offer varies between plans. Red Energy has a good reputation for keeping things fairly simple, with modest conditional discounts attached to some plans for paying on time. Discounts apply to both usage and supply charges with an ongoing benefit period. All plans have variable rates.
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts |
9% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,332 |
Go To Site |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
9% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,332 |
Go To Site |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
9% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,332 | Go To Site |
![]() |
**^^View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated˜) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
Conditional Discounts
|
11% MoreThan VDO› | $1,334 incl. conditional discount |
Go To Site |
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
Conditional Discounts
Other Features:
|
11% MoreThan VDO› | $1,334 incl. conditional discount |
Go To Site |
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
No Conditional Discounts |
3% MoreThan VDO› | $1,374 |
Go To Site |
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
11% MoreThan VDO› | $1,478 | Go To Site |
![]() |
˜›View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts |
9% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,421 |
Go To Site |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
9% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,421 |
Go To Site |
![]() |
**^^View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts |
4% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,864 |
Go To Site |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
4% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,864 |
Go To Site |
![]() |
**^^View important information |
Simply Energy is an electricity retailer known for providing various sign-up incentives and special deals targeted at certain customer segments. Its wide range of products includes a deal for members of automotive clubs like the NRMA and RACQ which brings bonus bill credits on the anniversary of the supply date, as well as a plan for cinema lovers which includes movie tickets during the duration of their contract. Simply Energy has also previously offered specific deals in partnership with professional sports clubs, including vouchers for club megastores.
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
16% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,231 | Go To Site |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts |
13% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,281 | Go To Site |
![]() |
**^^View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated˜) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
No Conditional Discounts |
12% LessThan VDO› | $1,173 | Go To Site |
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
Equal To VDO› |
$1,333 | Go To Site |
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
Equal To VDO› |
$1,333 | Go To Site |
![]() |
˜›View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
17% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,310 | Go To Site |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
8% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,440 | Go To Site |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
6% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,470 | Go To Site |
![]() |
**^^View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
15% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,650 | Go To Site |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
12% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,700 | Go To Site |
![]() |
**^^View important information |
Sumo is one of a handful of electricity retailers which also offers phone and internet (NBN) services. It operates in both Victoria and NSW. In these states it generally offers three plans, where customers can choose from plans offering a pay on time discount, bill credits or fixed rates. These have previously included some short-term special deals. Signing up for telco services earns you extra bill credits with Sumo.
Brand | Features | Price(estimated˜) | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
Conditional Discounts
|
Equal To VDO› |
$1,251 incl. conditional discount |
Go To Site |
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
2% Less Than VDO› |
$1,308 | Go To Site |
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
1% Less Than VDO› |
$1,323 |
Go To Site |
![]() |
˜›View important information |
Brand | Features | Price(estimated**) | ||
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![]() Basic Plan Information |
Conditional Discounts
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Equal To Reference Price^^ |
$1,246 incl. conditional discount |
Go To Site |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
10% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,321 | Go To Site |
![]() Basic Plan Information |
No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
9% LessThan Reference Price^^ | $1,328 | Go To Site |
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**^^View important information |
Servicing households in Victoria only, Tango Energy is best known for being the retail arm of green energy company and renewable energy asset Pacific Hydro. Victorians can expect two market offers available for sign up, which are the Home Select and Tango Blue. The first comes with a generous amount of the VDO and fixed rates for a 12 month benefit period. Tango Blue also has fixed rates for the same duration, but also comes with 100% GreenPower.
Brand | Features | Price(estimated˜) | ||
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![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
Home Select No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
9% LessThan VDO› | $1,220 | More Details |
![]() Energy Fact Sheet |
Tango Blue No Conditional Discounts Other Features:
|
9% MoreThan VDO› | $1,449 | More Details |
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˜›View important information |
In July 2019, the energy industry began a significant period of change, which saw lots of Australian households moved onto cheaper deals, while making it easier for everyone to compare plans and find the best value. Here is a high-level guide to the changes and what you need to be aware of.
The regulatory changes from this July are certainly a positive for those energy consumers who have paid too much, for too long. The concern, however, is that competition will suffer and those who’ve previously shopped around for the best deals may end up paying more in the future.
Consumers should also be mindful that settling for the default price in their area will still mean they are paying more than they need to, albeit the gap between the cheapest and most expensive plans will narrow considerably. This means consumers should consider what other value-add benefits they can get from their retailer. Energy is one of the biggest grudge purchases you can make, so getting a little extra for your money in return makes perfect sense.
Here are the electricity plans on our database for NSW. These costs are based on the Ausgrid network in Sydney but prices will vary depending on your circumstances. We show one product per retailer and plans are listed in order of lowest price first. See here for further information on the Reference Price, which in this comparison assumes general energy usage of 3900kWh/year, meaning that the Reference Price is $1,467/year for a residential customer on a single rate tariff. Use our comparison tool for a specific comparison. Our database may not cover all deals in your area, and please check retailer websites for up to date information.
Electricity Provider | Electricity Plan | Difference from Reference Price^ | Conditional Discounts | Price Estimate* |
---|---|---|---|---|
ReAmped Energy | ReAmped Handshake | 19% Less Than Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,188 |
Powerclub | Powerbank Home Flat | 18% Less Than Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,197 |
Origin Energy | Max Saver – Online Special | 17% Less Than Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,217 |
Kogan Energy | Market Offer | 17% Less Than Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,222 |
Simply Energy | Simply NRMA | 16% Less Than Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,231 |
Sumo | Sumo Select | Equal To Reference Price | 15% Less Than Reference Price for Paying on time |
$1,246incl. conditional discount |
Powershop | Shopper Market Offer | Equal To Reference Price | 15% Less Than Reference Price for Pre-Payment | $1,247incl. conditional discount |
Discover Energy | Ultimate Offer | 15% Less Than Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,249 |
Powerdirect | Discount Saver | 14% Less Than Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,258 |
Future X Power | Flexi Saver | 1% More Than Reference Price | Reduces to 14% Less Than Reference Price for Paying on Time | $1,265incl. conditional discount |
Energy Locals | Online Saver | 8% Less Than Reference Price | $84/year bonus credit for paying bills on time | $1,268incl. conditional discount |
EnergyAustralia | No Frills | 13% Less Than Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,272 |
AGL | Essentials Saver | 13% Less Than Reference Price | No conditional discounts |
$1,276 |
Momentum Energy | SmilePower Flexi | 12% Less Than Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,291 |
QEnergy | Home Saver Lite Variable | 11% Less Than Reference Price | No conditional discounts |
$1,301 |
Enova Energy | Community Plus | 9% Less Than Reference Price | Reduces to 11% Less Than Reference Price for Paying on Time | $1,308incl. conditional discount |
Alinta Energy | No Fuss | 11% Less Than Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,311 |
Red Energy | Living Energy Saver | 9% Less Than Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,332 |
Click Energy | Click Banksia Plus | 9% Less Than Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,335 |
CovaU | Freedom | 23% More Than Reference Price | Reduces to 8% Less Than Reference Price for Paying on Time | $1,352incl. conditional discount |
1st Energy | 1st Saver | Equal to Reference Price | 7% Less Than Reference Price for Paying on Time | $1,370incl. conditional discount |
Diamond Energy | Everyday Renewable Saver | 5% More Than Reference Price | Reduces to 5% Less Than Reference Price for Paying on Time by Direct Debit | $1,388incl. conditional discount |
Commander | Market Offer | 4% Less Than Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,411 |
Dodo Power & Gas | Market Offer | 4% Less Than Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,411 |
Mojo Power | Energy Without Benefits | Equal To Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,461 |
Amaysim Energy | Default Market Offer | Equal To Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,467 |
Pooled Energy | Market Offer | Equal To Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,467 |
DC Power Co | Market Offer | 4% More Than Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,531 |
Basic Plan Information Documents |
*Price assumes general energy usage of 3900kWh/year for a residential customer on a single rate tariff. Estimated price includes any conditions discounts that may be available. Pricing based on Ausgrid network in Sydney, but prices differ between distribution areas. Dec 2019.
Here are the electricity plans on our database for Victoria. These costs are based on the Citipower network in Melbourne but prices will vary depending on your circumstances. We show one product per retailers and plans are listed in order of lowest price first. See here for further information on the VDO, which in this comparison assumes general energy usage of 4000kWh/year, meaning that the VDO is $1,334/year for a residential customer on a single rate tariff. Use our comparison tool for a specific comparison. Our database may not cover all deals in your area, and please check retailer websites for up to date information.
Electricity Provider | Electricity Plan | Difference from VDO› | Conditional Discounts | Price Estimate˜ |
---|---|---|---|---|
Elysian Energy | The Good Life | 15% Less Than VDO | No conditional discounts | $1,136 |
Kogan Energy | Market Offer | 13% Less Than VDO | No conditional discounts | $1,163 |
Simply Energy | Simply Summer | 12% Less Than VDO | No conditional discounts | $1,173 |
Powerclub | Powerbank Home Flat | 12% Less Than VDO | No conditional discounts | $1,177 |
GloBird Energy | EasySave | 11% Less Than VDO | No conditional discounts | $1,186 |
Momentum Energy | Self Serve | 11% Less Than VDO | No conditional discounts | $1,189 |
Powershop | Shopper Market Offer | 17% More Than VDO | Reduces to 10% Less Than VDO for Pre-Payment | $1,199incl. conditional discount |
Commander | Market Offer | 10% Less Than VDO | No conditional discounts | $1,200 |
Dodo Power & Gas | Market Offer | 10% Less Than VDO | No conditional discounts | $1,200 |
Powerdirect | Rate Saver | 10% Less Than VDO | No conditional discounts | $1,200 |
AGL | Essentials Saver | 10% Less Than VDO | No conditional discounts | $1,201 |
Energy Locals | Online Saver | 3% Less Than VDO | $84/year credit for paying on time | $1,214incl. conditional discount |
Tango Energy | Home Select | 9% Less Than VDO | No conditional discounts | $1,220 |
Lumo Energy | Lumo Value | 4% Less Than VDO | Reduces to 7% Less Than VDO for Paying on Time | $1,237incl. conditional discount |
EnergyAustralia | No Frills | 6% Less Than VDO | No conditional discounts | $1,249 |
Sumo | Sumo Select | Equal To VDO | 6% Less Than VDO for Paying on Time | $1,251incl. conditional discount |
Origin Energy | Max Saver Online Special | 6% Less Than VDO | No conditional discounts | $1,253 |
Click Energy | Banksia Plus | 3% Less Than VDO | No conditional discounts | $1,293 |
1st Energy | 1st Saver | 6% More Than VDO | 1% Less Than VDO for Paying on Time | $1,318incl. conditional discount |
Alinta Energy | Real Deal | Equal to VDO | No conditional discounts | $1,334 |
Amaysim Energy | Victorian Default Offer | Equal to VDO | No conditional discounts | $1,334 |
CovaU | Victorian Default Offer | Equal to VDO | No conditional discounts | $1,334 |
People Energy | Victorian Default Offer | Equal to VDO | No conditional discounts | $1,334 |
QEnergy | Home Your Way | Equal to VDO | No conditional discounts | $1,334 |
Red Energy | Living Energy Saver | 11% More Than VDO | Equal to VDO for Paying on Time | $1,334incl. conditional discount |
Diamond Energy | Diamond | 12% More Than VDO | Reduces to 1% More Than VDO for Paying on Time by Direct Debit | $1,351incl. conditional discount |
DC Power Co | Market Offer | 5% More Than VDO | No conditional discounts | $1,404 |
Energy Fact Sheets |
˜Price assumes general energy usage of 4000kWh/year for a residential customer on a single rate tariff. Estimated price includes any conditions discounts that may be available. Pricing based on Citipower network in Melbourne, but prices differ between distribution areas. Dec 2019.
Here are the electricity plans on our database for SE QLD. These costs are based on Energex network in Brisbane but prices will vary depending on your circumstances. We show one product per retailer and plans are listed in order of lowest price first. See here for further information on the Reference Price, which in this comparison assumes general energy usage of 4600kWh/year, meaning that the Reference Price is $1,570/year for a residential customer on a single rate tariff. Use our comparison tool for a specific comparison. Our database may not cover all deals in your area, and please check retailer websites for up to date information.
Electricity Provider | Electricity Plan | Difference from Reference Price^ | Conditional Discounts | Price Estimate* |
---|---|---|---|---|
ReAmped Energy | ReAmped Handshake | 18% Less Than Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,290 |
Click Energy | Hibiscus | 17% Less Than Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,303 |
Powerclub | Powerbank Home Flat | 17% Less Than Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,308 |
Simply Energy | Simply RACQ | 17% Less Than Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,310 |
Origin Energy | Max Saver – Online Special | 16% Less Than Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,319 |
Powershop | Shopper Market Offer | 1% Less Than Reference Price | Reduces to 16% Less Than Reference Price for Pre-Payment | $1,322incl. conditional discount |
Kogan Energy | Market Offer | 15% Less Than Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,339 |
Alinta Energy | No Fuss | 15% Less Than Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,340 |
QEnergy | Home Saver Lite Variable | 15% Less Than Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,341 |
Future X Power | Flexi Saver | 1% More Than Reference Price | Reduces to 13% Less Than Reference Price for Paying on Time | $1,359incl. conditional discount |
Powerdirect | Discount Saver | 12% Less Than Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,377 |
LPE | Principal Rate | 12% Less Than Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,381 |
AGL | Essentials Saver | 12% Less Than Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,382 |
EnergyAustralia | Total Plan Home | 11% Less Than Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,397 |
Diamond Energy | Everyday Renewable Saver | 1% Less Than Reference Price | Reduces to 11% Less Than Reference Price for Paying on Time by Direct Debit | $1,399incl. conditional discount |
Discover Energy | Ultimate Offer | 11% Less Than Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,404 |
Red Energy | Living Energy Saver | 9% Less Than Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,421 |
Dodo Power & Gas | Market Offer | 6% Less Than Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,472 |
Energy Locals | Online Saver | Equal To Reference Price | $84/year credit for paying on time | $1,482incl. conditional discount |
1st Energy | 1st Saver | Equal To Reference Price | 5% Less Than Reference Price for Paying on Time | $1,493incl. conditional discount |
Mojo Power | Energy Without Benefits | Equal To Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,569 |
Amaysim Energy | Default Market Offer | Equal To Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,570 |
DC Power Co | Market Offer | 21% More Than Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,905 |
Basic Plan Information Documents |
*Price assumes general energy usage of 4600kWh/year for a residential customer on a single rate tariff. Estimated price includes any conditions discounts that may be available. Pricing based on Energex network in Brisbane, but prices differ between distribution areas. Dec 2019.
Here are the electricity plans on our database for South Australia. These costs are based on SA Power network in Adelaide but prices will vary depending on your circumstances. We show one product per retailer and plans are listed in order of lowest price first. See here for further information on the Reference Price, which in this comparison assumes general energy usage of 4000kWh/year, meaning that the Reference Price is $1,941/year for a residential customer on a single rate tariff. Use our comparison tool for a specific comparison. Our database may not cover all deals in your area, and please check retailer websites for up to date information.
Electricity Provider | Electricity Plan | Difference from Reference Price^ | Conditional Discounts | Price Estimate* |
---|---|---|---|---|
Powerclub | Powerbank Home Flat | 15% Less Than Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,642 |
Powershop | Shopper Market Offer | Equal To Reference Price | 15% Less Than Reference Price for Pre-Payment | $1,648incl. conditional discount |
Origin Energy | Max Saver – Online Special | 15% Less Than Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,650 |
Simply Energy | Simply RAA | 15% Less Than Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,650 |
Kogan Energy | Market Offer | 14% Less Than Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,661 |
AGL | Essentials Saver | 13% Less Than Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,688 |
Powerdirect | Discount Saver | 10% Less Than Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,739 |
Discover Energy | Ultimate Offer | 10% Less Than Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,741 |
Alinta Energy | No Fuss | 9% Less Than Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,766 |
Momentum Energy | SmilePower Flexi | 9% Less Than Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,769 |
EnergyAustralia | No Frills | 6% Less Than Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,821 |
Energy Locals | Online Saver | 2% Less Than Reference Price | $84/year credit for paying on time | $1,822incl. conditional discount |
Dodo Power & Gas | Market Offer | 5% Less Than Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,835 |
Lumo Energy | Basic | 5% Less Than Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,835 |
Commander | Market Offer | 5% Less Than Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,837 |
Red Energy | Living Energy Saver | 4% Less Than Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,864 |
Click Energy | Banksia Plus | 3% Less Than Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,882 |
Diamond Energy | Diamond Standard | 1% Less Than Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,914 |
QEnergy | Home Your Way | Equal To Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,933 |
Amaysim Energy | Default Market Offer | Equal To Reference Price | No conditional discounts | $1,940 |
Basic Plan Information Documents |
*Price assumes general energy usage of 4000kWh/year for a residential customer on a single rate tariff. Estimated price includes any conditions discounts that may be available. Pricing based on SA Power network in Adelaide, but prices differ between distribution areas. Dec 2019.
These costs are based on annual energy usage of 5499kWh/year and a selected postcode in Canberra, but these prices will vary depending on your own circumstances. Use our energy comparison tool above for a quote where you live. Our database may not cover all deals available in your area, and please check retailer websites for up to date information.
Electricity Provider | Electricity Plan | Discount | Annual Cost | Important |
---|---|---|---|---|
Origin Energy | Max Saver – Online Special | 15% | $1,475 | Basic Plan Information |
Powerclub | Powerbank Home Flat | 0% | $1,517 | Basic Plan Information |
EnergyAustralia | Total Plan Home | 9% | $1,540 | Basic Plan Information |
ActewAGL | Home 20% Offer | 20% | $1,543 | Basic Plan Information |
Energy Locals | Online Saver | $84/year credit for paying on time | $1,588 | Basic Plan Information |
Red Energy | Living Energy Saver | 0% | $1,691 | Basic Plan Information |
Prices based on the EvoEnergy electricity distribution network, postcode 2600, Dec 2019. One product per retailer shown.
In addition to comparing many electricity plans based on price and the best value, Canstar Blue also publishes customer satisfaction ratings for electricity companies in New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland and South Australia. Our annual reviews are based on the feedback of bill-paying customers, with the latest ratings as follows:
See here for further details on the ratings and our methodology.
See here for further details on the ratings and our methodology.
See here for further details on the ratings and our methodology.
See here for further details on the ratings and our methodology.
An electricity plan is a contract between you and your electricity retailer that stipulates the prices, discounts and conditions of the supply of electricity to your home or business. Most electricity retailers offer customers a handful of deals made up of both standard and market offer contracts, which vary from state to state. You will find open contracts (with no contract term) and contracts for one or two years.
Most electricity retailers let customers sign up online. Simply visit your preferred provider’s website and carefully consider what it has to offer – be sure to read the Electricity Price Fact Sheet to find out exactly what you’ll be paying. Once you have found yourself a good deal, just follow the website’s instructions to sign up. Customer review and comparison websites such as Canstar Blue can also help in the decision-making process. If you’re changing your plan, but not the retailer, then there is nothing else you need to do. If you’re switching companies or signing up for power for the first time, you may need to provide your NMI (If known), plus address and bank details. After that, pick a connection date and a meter technician will come out to seamlessly complete the connection.
Electricity prices are set by either your energy retailer or your state government depending on if you live in an area with price regulations or not. In most cases, the energy companies are free to set their own prices, but in many rural areas prices are still regulated, meaning they are set by the local government. Households in Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide and Melbourne will have their prices set by the energy retailers, but in Western Australia and rural Queensland, for example, prices remain regulated.
Electricity usage rates are largely controlled by the market forces of supply and demand. Retailers purchase electricity at a wholesale rate from the National Electricity Market before on selling it to customers. The wholesale prices will change every five minutes depending on the demand for electricity. Supply charges, meanwhile are determined by network distributors to fund network infrastructure maintenance and improvements. As well as market forces, prices are also set by retailers. In addition to usage and supply costs, your bill will also be made up of charges for your retailer’s service, as well as government GST.
Energy retailers typically submit their applications for rate changes to the Australian Energy Regulator every 12 months. In South Australia, New South Wales and Queensland, prices are usually reviewed in July, but in Victoria prices will change in January. However, it should be noted that electricity costs can change during the year if your provider amends its rates or discounts.
A deregulated market means that energy retailers are free to set their own rates and offers under a relaxed regulatory environment. Previously, prices were set by state governments. Deregulation has opened the door to new electricity providers and increased competition, although the merits of price deregulation are still hotly contested. Victoria, Queensland, New South Wales and South Australia all have price deregulation, but in some rural parts of these states, plus in Tasmania and Western Australia, the price of electricity is still set by the local government.
Electricity market retail contracts are energy plans designed by specific energy retailers. These are almost always cheaper than the alternative standard retail contracts that are also offered, and are likely to include discounts, incentives and bonuses for customers. The main downside to market offers is that your retailer can change the prices you’re charged at any time, unless it is a fixed rate plan. The majority of these offers come with variables rates. Not all households in Australia will have access to market retail offers.
Standard retail electricity contracts are plans with the terms and prices set by a state government. Retailers in deregulated electricity markets must provide a standard retail contract by law as a default option for customers who have yet to switch to a market offer contract. Standard retailer contracts have fixed prices for six month intervals, however the rates are generally higher than those of market retail offers and there are no discounts available. As such, standard offers are more expensive and are not intended as a viable alternative to market contracts.
A variable rate electricity plan means the amount you are charged for power usage or supply can change at your energy retailer’s discretion. The majority of retail market contracts have variable rates, which are typically reviewed every 12 months. Variable rate electricity plans are usually available on one or two-year contracts, but some providers do offer open contracts. Exit fees will often apply if you cancel the agreement. Variable rate plans generally provide the best value, but you must be sure to regularly review your options as charges and discounts change.
A fixed rate electricity plan means the amount that you are charged for energy usage and supply will not be changed during the term of your agreement. While prices on variable rate plans will change every year, fixed rate plans provide some certainty over the rates you will pay for electricity. However, your electricity bills will still fluctuate depending on your usage habits. Fixed rate plans are only available on one or two-year contracts, meaning that you will be protected from any rate increases over that period. Only a handful of energy providers offer fixed rate plans, including AGL, Origin, EnergyAustralia and Tango Energy.
A fixed cost electricity plan means you know exactly what you will be paying for power every billing period, regardless of your energy usage. Fixed cost plans are currently only offered by Origin Energy, although more retailers are likely to follow suit in future. Fixed cost plans provide the most certainty over your electricity costs, with the amount you are charged based on your previous usage history. The fixed amount is what you will pay each billing period, but this will be reviewed every 12 months.
Many retailers offer business and residential customers the option to have some or all of their energy usage reimbursed to the electricity grid from renewable energy sources. GreenPower plans are usually offered with 25%, 50%, 75% or 100% renewable generation. GreenPower plans involve paying a few cents extra per kWh, potentially making it rather expensive.
Electricity usage charges are what you pay for each kWh of electricity your household consumes – the more electricity you use, the more you will pay. Usage charges generally cost around 20c/kWh to 40c/kWh, but prices vary significantly between states and depending on your provider. Usage charges will typically be the most costly element of your electricity bill, so it’s very important to understand what rate you are paying and whether you could find a lower rate with a different supplier.
An electricity supply charge is a cost incurred for remaining connected to an energy network. Supply charges vary considerably from state to state, generally ranging in costs from 80c to $1.50 each day. Even if you don’t use any power, you will still need to pay the supply charge. Despite supply costs being a charge imposed by energy distributors, the rates will vary from retailer to retailer. As supply charges can heavily contribute to your bill, it’s important you check the energy price factsheet.
A kilowatt hour (or kWh, as it is more commonly expressed) is a unit of measurement used for measuring electricity usage for billing purposes. Simply put, a kilowatt (kW) is a measurement of how much electricity an appliance demands in order to operate, while a kWh is the number of kilowatts that your household consumes over a period of time.
The average Australian household uses 17.3kWh of electricity per day, according to research published by the Australian Energy Regulator. Energy requirements will vary depending on the season, the number of people in a household, and the types of appliances used. Bearing in mind that the AER’s research excludes households with swimming pools, its publication claims that we use the least amount of electricity in summer, while the winter months see us considerably increase the level of energy used, as the table below shows.
The following table shows average daily electricity usage (kWh).
Household size | 1 person | 2 people | 3 people | 4 people | 5 people |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Summer | 9.2 | 11.6 | 14 | 16.4 | 18.8 |
Autumn | 9.1 | 11.9 | 14.6 | 17.4 | 20.2 |
Winter | 12.4 | 14.8 | 17.1 | 19.5 | 21.8 |
Spring | 11.9 | 14.3 | 16.8 | 19.3 | 21.7 |
These results are based on average households, so consider that if you have more than five people living with you, your energy usage will reflect this.
Electricity tariffs refer to the pricing structure of your electricity usage charges. Depending on your tariff, you may be charged different rates depending on when, or how, you use electricity. Electricity tariffs can vary between energy retailers, but the most common electricity tariffs are:
The tariff available to you depends on your meter type. Old meters will usually be on single rate tariffs, while newer meters can take a number of usage measurements for multi-tariff rates.
A single rate tariff means you are charged the same rate for all of your electricity usage regardless of the time of day, what you are powering, or how much energy your household has consumed. Single rate tariffs will typically result in the highest bills. This type of tariff has fallen out of fashion in recent years as more modern electricity meters, such as smart meters, have given more homes and businesses access to time of use tariffs or other tariffs that could help reduce costs.
Certain high energy usage appliances such as hot water systems, pool pumps and refrigerators may be connected on a dedicated circuit and metered separately from the rest of your electricity. Electricity retailers can charge a considerably lower usage rate for the dedicated appliance, potentially helping to reduce your energy bill. A controlled load is not exclusive and can be combined with a time of use, two-rate, block or single rate tariff.
A block electricity rate means a different rate is charged for each ‘block’ of electricity usage. A block may be a certain amount of kilowatt hours (kWh) per day, or per billing period. To illustrate this, take the artificial example below:
This means that two separate usage rates are charged for ‘peak’ and ‘off-peak’ periods. As electricity is considerably cheaper during off-peak hours – because of decreased demand – it is a good option for those who use most of their electricity during the day.
A time of use tariff means you are charged three separate electricity usage rates for either ‘peak’, ‘off-peak’ or ‘shoulder’ periods. This is a common tariff structure for households with smart meters installed.
A ‘peak rate’ is charged during periods where there is a high demand for electricity usage. Peak usage rates are generally applied from 3pm to 9pm and are considerably higher than those charged in off-peak or shoulder periods.
An ‘off-peak rate’ is charged during periods of reduced energy usage. Off-peak electricity rates generally apply from 11pm through to 7am and are much cheaper than shoulder or peak period rates.
A ‘shoulder rate’ is a rate charged between peak and off-peak periods when there is a mild demand for electricity. Shoulder rates usually apply from 9pm to 11pm and 7am to 3pm. Shoulder rates are more expensive than off-peak periods and cheaper than peak periods.
Discounts are a percentage deduction made from your electricity costs at the end of each billing period. Energy discounts are only available on market retail contracts, and the amount you are discounted – if at all – will vary across different plans and electricity companies. Discounts you might commonly encounter include:
The discount amount, which can vary from as low as 2% up to 40% or more, will usually be taken off your electricity usage costs. However, some providers have discounts off your entire bill instead. Be aware that not all high-discount plans work out the cheapest overall options as some of the contracts with the highest discounts will also include the highest usage or supply charges, which can negate the overall savings. Failing to meet the conditions of your discount could also mean you are charged a fee. Also keep in mind that energy discounts have benefit periods and can expire.
A pay on time discount means you will receive a set percentage off your electricity costs at the end of the billing period – provided that you settle your bill on or before the due date. Pay on time discounts are the most common form of energy discount, but the amount you receive off your bill can vary considerably. This will depend on your energy retailer and the plan you are on. Pay on time discounts can be off your entire bill or just usage charges.
By having your electricity bill automatically debited from your selected bank account – rather than making manual payments every time – you could be eligible for a direct debit discount. It’s a simple and effective way to save money for those who are comfortable with direct debiting. A direct debit discount could be off your entire bill or just usage charges.
If your home or business uses natural gas provided through the same retailer as your electricity, you may be eligible for a ‘bundled’ discount. This discount, also known as a double up discount, can vary considerably across retailers from 2% to 15%. The discount could be off your whole bill or just usage charges. Like with other discounts, there will likely be a benefit period which could expire after one or two years.
Discounts are offered by the energy retailers for anything that makes their lives a little easier, or just saves them money. This is the case with email billing discounts. If you receive your bills by email instead of post, energy providers will often give you a modest discount as reward. This will also mean receiving all other communications via email instead of post.
It’s all in the name. An unconditional energy discount refers to discounts that are applied to your power bill that aren’t dependent on you fulfilling any conditions. Regardless of your chosen payment method, how you receive your energy bill or whether or not you’re early on your bill payment, you can expect an unconditional energy discount to apply to the amount you have due. This discount can apply to the whole bill or just usage charges.
A discount benefit period is the length of time that your energy discount will apply. In most cases, benefit periods last for 12 months, although some electricity retailers offer discounts over two years, or even ongoing. Once the benefit period ends, you will likely have to start paying the full, non-discounted rate for power, which could be considerably more. It’s best to treat big-discount electricity plans as introductory offers and review your options at the end of the benefit period.
Each state and territory provides a number of government-mandated concessions designed to assist households experiencing hardship that affects electricity requirements or their ability to pay their bills. Depending on the type of government concession or rebate, customers may be required to hold one of the following:
The names and availability of assistance schemes will vary across states, but they generally include:
Emergency relief assistance: Customers who are at risk of being disconnected due to a legitimate inability to pay their utility bill may be eligible to receive a one-off payment. This can only be applied every 12 or 24 months depending on your state.
Medical Energy rebate: Customers who require energy-consuming medical equipment or must regularly use heating or cooling appliances for medical purposes may receive an annual rebate of around $200. Some states such as Victoria instead supply a reasonable discount on your energy bill.
Other rebates, concessions and discounts: Depending on your state, several other assistance programs may be available to you if you are:
If you are unable to pay your electricity bill on time, your retailer is required by federal law to follow certain steps. You will not be automatically disconnected, however you may lose any discounts you might have been eligible for.
Disconnecting a property for late payment is a drastic action which retailers do their best to avoid. If you think you may struggle to pay your bill on time, contact your energy retailer to discuss a possible extension, or payment scheme.
Bill smoothing is a payment scheme with which customers can pay fixed monthly, fortnightly or weekly installments towards their expected electricity bill. Your retailer will forecast your annual electricity requirements, given your history, to see how much you should be paying. Incorrect estimates will be settled in later bills. Bill smoothing is a great option for those who like a predictable budget. The idea behind paying the same amount each billing cycle is that you won’t be taken by surprise in peak energy usage seasons.
Smart meters are electricity meters that provide energy usage information every half hour, allowing households and businesses to more closely monitor usage through apps and web portals, as well as benefit from flexible pricing tariffs. Smart meters are installed in most Victorian homes and are becoming increasingly common in New South Wales, South Australia and Tasmania. Some energy providers, such as Powershop, have built their business models around the use of smart meters. It is recommended that customers monitor their electricity usage through their smart meter to become better informed about their usage habits, which could result in reduced costs.
The National Meter Identifier (or ‘NMI’ as it’s displayed on your bill) is a unique 10 digit number used to identify your electricity meter. It allows your electricity retailer and network distributor to identify your meter for purposes of connection, metering and billing.
If a meter reader is unable to access your electricity meter (e.g. due to an aggressive dog), then the distributor will estimate your energy usage based on previous records and your retailer will charge you accordingly. If this is the case, an ‘E’ will be displayed next to your usage figure on your bill. If it is later learned that this was an incorrect estimate, you will be charged more or less accordingly in your next bill. This is not a problem for households with smart meters, as electricity usage data is automatically transferred to the network distributor. You may also be able to submit your own meter reading.
An electricity distributor owns and maintains all of the infrastructure within a certain area that is associated with delivering power to homes and businesses, including poles, wires and meters. Your local distributor is responsible for recording your energy usage and passes the details to your electricity retailer for billing. While you have no choice over who your distributor is, they have a big impact on your overall energy costs because they set supply charges. Usage costs could also vary depending on location.
The NEM is an acronym for the National Electricity Market. It is a large electricity distribution network made up of the several smaller energy networks that span most of Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania. The electricity generators produce the electricity for the NEM before electricity retailers purchase it at a wholesale rate to resell to customers.
Some energy providers offer electricity and gas together (commonly referred to as dual fuel plans), which can certainly be convenient if you pay for both power sources and would rather deal with just one retailer. Be aware though, that some providers only sell electricity. The table below shows which retailers sell both electricity and gas – and in which states. Note that we only show states where the retailers sells both electricity and gas. They may sells electricity only in other areas.
Electricity and Gas Retailer | States | Dual fuel? |
---|---|---|
AGL | Victoria, NSW, South Australia, Queensland | |
Origin | Victoria, NSW, South Australia, Queensland, ACT | |
EnergyAustralia | Victoria, NSW, South Australia, Queensland, ACT | |
Red Energy | Victoria, NSW, South Australia, Queensland | |
Alinta Energy | Victoria, NSW, South Australia | |
Dodo Power & Gas | Victoria, NSW, South Australia | |
Click Energy | Victoria, NSW, South Australia | |
Simply Energy | Victoria, NSW, South Australia | |
Amaysim Energy | Victoria, NSW, South Australia | |
Lumo Energy | Victoria, South Australia | |
Momentum Energy | Victoria | |
GloBird Energy | Victoria | |
Sumo Power | Victoria | |
Powershop | Victoria | |
CovaU | Victoria, NSW | |
ActewAGL | NSW, ACT | |
Aurora Energy | Tasmania |
There are a few scenarios in life which could leave you scratching your head trying to figure out who your energy provider is. Whether you’ve moved into a new place and have stayed with the previous occupant’s energy provider, or the energy bill responsibility has just been passed down to you and you’re unsure of where to even start, don’t fret- there are a couple of things you can do to check.
Most energy companies let you switch online in a process that often takes just a matter of minutes. Before you do this however, make sure you’re not locked into a minimum term contract with your existing provider, because if you are, then a cancellation or exit fee may need to be paid. If you are in an open term contract, it is not necessary to inform your current provider that you are leaving – your new energy company will handle that for you. To switch to a new electricity company, you will usually have to provide the following information:
Once this is done, your local distributor will take a meter reading for your final bill with your old provider and to start a fresh billing cycle.
If you find a more favourable plan from another electricity provider, then there is never a bad time to switch, provided you are not locked into a contract and would need to pay an exit fee. Generally, it’s worth reviewing your options every time your retailer changes its pricing as you may end up paying more if you stay put. You should also compare other plans when the benefit period of your current discount expires, because once again you could see your costs increase. Electricity prices tend to be reviewed in January and July, so make a note in your diary to review your options.
New South Wales households have more than 25 different residential electricity retailers to choose from, including the established energy giants and several new providers you may not have heard of. The following providers all operate in NSW:
Victoria is a highly-competitive market for electricity retailers, meaning there are plenty of companies vying for your business with competitive deals. Victorians can choose from the following electricity providers:
South Australia has comparatively fewer options than other states when it comes to electricity retailers. South Australians can choose from the following options:
Since the lifting of price regulations in 2016, several new electricity providers have entered the Queensland market. Households in the south east of the state now have the following options:
The majority of households in the ACT are supplied by ActewAGL, although Origin, EnergyAustralia, Red Energy, Energy Locals and Powerclub also now compete for customers. Meanwhile, residents in Western Australia, Tasmania and the Northern Territory have either very limited or no choice as to who they can purchase electricity through.
There are no costs for switching providers, nor do electricity retailers charge a sign-up fee. That said, if you are on a minimum-term contract, there may be exit fees for switching. Fortunately these fees are not terribly expensive, usually costing $20 to $80. For those moving house, there may be a reconnection fee of around $20-$50 if the new property has been disconnected from the energy network.
Switching energy providers at the same property should in no way affect your supply of electricity. This is because the distributor is simply changing which retailer it informs about your electricity usage – there is no need for any changes to your home’s electrical infrastructure.
With all the attention-grabbing advertisements claiming competitive prices and quality service, deciding which energy provider is best suited to you is a real challenge. Not only do you need to consider the usage and supply charges of prospective retailers, but you’ll also need to factor in any discounts and other bonus incentives they offer. You should also consider the merits of their customer service. That’s why Canstar Blue produces an annual review and rating of customer satisfaction with leading energy providers in each state to help you pick one that’s right for you. You can see how fellow Aussies rated their electricity provider using our customer satisfaction ratings*.
*See here for our customer satisfaction ratings methodology and other FAQs.
To issue a complaint about your electricity retailer, you can contact the energy Ombudsman for your respective state or territory.
Before submitting a complaint to the ombudsman, try resolving the issue with your electricity retailer first. You and your energy company will usually be able to reach a solution without a need to take it further.
How Are Electricity Prices Set?
Default Market Offer Explained
Energy Reference Price Explained
Victorian Default Offer Explained
Fixed vs Variable Energy Plans
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