Compare Energy Plans & Providers

How to use our electricity comparison tool

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.

Electricity providers we compare

Canstar Blue compares plans and prices from 40 electricity providers across NSW, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia and the ACT. Providers compared are:

• 1st Energy
• ActewAGL
• AGL
• Alinta Energy
• Amaysim Energy
• Amber Electric
• Aurora Energy
• Bright Spark Power
• Click Energy
• Commander
• CovaU
• DC Power Co
• Diamond Energy
• Discover Energy
• Dodo
• Elysian Energy
• EnergyAustralia
• Energy Locals
• Enova Energy
• Future X Power
• GloBird Energy
• Kogan Energy
• Locality Planning Energy (LPE)
• Lumo Energy
• Mojo Power
• Momentum Energy
• Nectr
• Origin Energy
• OVO Energy
• People Energy
• Pooled Energy
• Powerclub
• Powerdirect
• Powershop
• QEnergy
• ReAmped Energy
• Red Energy
• Simply Energy
• Sumo
• Tango Energy

Not all providers operate in all states.

How we’re different from other comparison sites

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.

We’re energy experts

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.”

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.

What changed in NSW, QLD and SA?

• Customers paying the highest power prices (‘standing offers’) were automatically switched onto a new ‘Default Market Offer’ (DMO), the cost of which is determined by the Australian Energy Regulator (AER) and updated every year.
• Those customers moving from standing offers onto the new default price will save an average of around $200 a year, but for many the savings will be much more significant.
• The default price is designed to be consistent across all power retailers, so as a consumer, if you are simply happy paying the default price, it doesn’t really matter what retailer you are with. Though, consumers shouldn’t just settle for the default price (which we’ll come to).
• The DMO acts as a safety net for consumers who do not engage in the energy market, but it also has another, hugely significant, purpose. The DMO also acts as a ‘Reference Price’ from which all market offers (anything other than the DMO) will need to be compared to.
• All market offers will need to reference the Reference Price in marketing, clearly displaying a percentage ‘less than’ the DMO (Reference Price). This is so that consumers can see how the marketed plan compares to the DMO on price, removing the issues we previously saw when it comes to discounts not delivering the savings they seemed to.
• There is still no level playing field from which all discounted products are applied, but the retailers have to show how the cost of their plan compares to the reference price. But with their marketing, they must show the minimum cost of their plan most prominently, rather than the potential lowest price with discount conditions met. As a result, it’s likely we’ll see the end of big discounts, because the retailers will put all their value into the minimum cost they must display most prominently.
• All this means that the DMO (Reference Price) will effectively act as a price cap for energy. However, retailers are still able to charge more than the DMO, but given they will need to represent this in their marketing (i.e. x more than the reference price) it seems unlikely that many will do it, unless they have a particular value-add benefit which justifies the extra cost.
• The DMO is not designed to be a competitive energy deal, rather a safety net for those who do not engage in the energy market. Based on current market offer prices, the cheapest deals are currently $2-300 a year cheaper than DMO, so no one should just settle for paying too much.

What changed in Victoria?

• There are some similarities between the DMO and the changes in Victoria, but the biggest differences are that, in Victoria, the new default price is called the ‘Victorian Default Offer’ (VDO). And unlike the DMO, which acts as price safety net for consumers, the VDO has been designed as a “fair price” for energy. In other words, it’s a competitive offer compared to the market.
• Customers still on standing offers will be automatically switched onto the new VDO price for their specific distribution network. Average savings are around $3-450 a year, although some people could save more.
• The VDO does not act as a price cap, so retailers can still charge more. Even customers on market offers can request a switch onto the VDO if they are currently paying more, which many will be.
• The other important point about the VDO is that it acts as a point of reference from which discounted plans must apply. This way, consumers can have confidence that the plans with the biggest discounts genuinely will mean the biggest savings. Retailers must state (in dollar or percentage terms) how their discounted offer compares to the estimated annual cost of the VDO.
• Retailers are required to include information on a customer’s bill about how the customer can access the VDO. Additionally, retailers are required to inform customers of the retailer’s best offer for that customer. This could be the VDO or a better market offer.
• With a narrowing of price competition, retailers look set to put more emphasis on their sign-up incentives, such as rewards programs, temporary promotions and various other value-add incentives, such as flybuys points of Qantas points etc.

Summary

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.

Electricity Comparison NSW

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.

*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. June 2020.

Electricity Comparison Victoria

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 $1,420/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.

˜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. June 2020.

Electricity Comparison QLD

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.

*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. June 2020.

Electricity Comparison SA

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.

*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. June 2020.

Electricity Comparison ACT

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.

Prices based on the EvoEnergy electricity distribution network, postcode 2600, June 2020. 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:

Best-Rated Electricity Providers NSW:

• Red Energy
• Alinta Energy
• Click Energy
• Origin
• AGL
• EnergyAustralia
• Dodo

See here for further details on the ratings and our methodology.

Best-Rated Electricity Providers VIC:

• Powershop
• Tango Energy
• Dodo
• Momentum
• GloBird Energy
• Alinta Energy
• Red Energy
• EnergyAustralia
• Lumo Energy
• Click Energy
• AGL
• Sumo Power
• Simply Energy
• Origin

See here for further details on the ratings and our methodology.

Best-Rated Electricity Providers QLD:

• Alinta Energy
• Red Energy
• EnergyAustralia
• Click Energy
• AGL
• Origin

See here for further details on the ratings and our methodology.

Best-Rated Electricity Providers SA:

• Alinta Energy
• Lumo Energy
• AGL
• Origin
• EnergyAustralia
• Simply Energy

See here for further details on the ratings and our methodology.

What is an electricity plan?

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.

How do I sign up to an electricity plan?

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.

Who sets electricity prices?

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.

How are electricity prices set?

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.

When are electricity prices set?

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.

What is electricity price deregulation?

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.

What is an electricity market retail offer?

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.

What is a standard electricity retail offer?

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.

What is a variable rate electricity plan?

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.

What is a fixed rate electricity plan?

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.

What is a fixed cost electricity plan?

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.

What is a GreenPower plan?

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.

What is an electricity usage charge?

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.

What is an electricity supply charge?

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.

What is a kWh?

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.

How much electricity am I using?

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).

Source: AER

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.

What is an electricity tariff?

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:

• Single rate
• Controlled load
• Block rate
• Two rate
• Time of use

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.

What is a single rate tariff?

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.

What is a controlled load?

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.

What is a block electricity rate?

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:

• First block of 1,000kWh in a quarter – Rate: 23c/kWh
• Second block of 1,000kWh in a quarter – Rate: 22.6c/kWh
• Third block of 1,000kWh in a quarter – Rate: 24.2c/kWh

What is a two rate/off-peak tariff?

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.

What is a time of use tariff?

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.

What is a peak usage rate?

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.

What is an off-peak rate?

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.

What is a shoulder usage rate?

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.

What are electricity discounts?

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:

• Pay on time discount
• Direct Debit discount
• Bundled energy discount
• Email billing discount
• Unconditional energy discount

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.

What is a pay on time discount?

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.

What is a direct debit discount?

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.

What is a bundled energy discount?

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.

What is an email billing discount?

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.

What is an unconditional energy discount?

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.

What is a discount benefit period?

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.

What electricity concessions are available?

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:

• Senior Card
• Pensioner Concession Card
• Centrelink Health Care Card
• Department of Veterans’ Affairs Gold Card

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:

• A senior citizen
• A veteran
• A low income earner

What if I can’t pay my electricity bill?

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.

1. If the bill has not been paid, the retailer will issue a reminder notice.
2. After a time period is stipulated on the reminder notice, your retailer will then issue a disconnection warning.
3. As a final step, your retailer is required to contact you (usually by phone) to discuss payment.
4. If the energy company cannot get in touch with you or you continue to refuse payment, the property will be disconnected. Reconnection to the grid will incur a small fee.

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.

What is bill smoothing?

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.

What are smart meters?

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.

What is a NMI?

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.

What if my electricity meter can’t be read?

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.

What is an electricity distributor?

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.

What is the NEM?

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.

Australian electricity and gas providers

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.

Who is my electricity supplier?

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.

How to find your electricity supplier

1. Talk to the last person who would have taken care of the bill: If you’re still able to get in touch with the last person paying the bill, whether it be an old housemate or family member, the best thing to do is ask them to transfer the electricity account into your name. The same goes if you’ve just moved into a new house, where you might be able to get in touch with the old residents through your landlord or real estate agent.
2. Call up your electricity distribution network: Finding your distributor is as easy as visiting our region-specific distribution network guide. They will be able to tell you what electricity provider is currently registered to your address.

How do I switch electricity providers?

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:

• NMI (if known)
• Supply address
• Bank details (bank name, BSB and acct number)

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.

When should I switch electricity providers?

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.

Which electricity providers operate in NSW?

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:

• AGL
• ActewAGL
• Alinta Energy
• Amaysim Energy
• Amber Electric
• Click Energy
• Commander
• CovaU
• DC Power Co
• Diamond Energy
• Discover Energy
• Dodo Power & Gas
• EnergyAustralia
• Energy Locals
• Enova Energy
• Future X Power
• Kogan Energy
• Locality Planning Energy
• Mojo Power
• Momentum Energy
• Nectr
• Origin Energy
• OVO Energy
• Pooled Energy
• Powerclub
• Powerdirect
• Powershop
• QEnergy
• ReAmped Energy
• Red Energy
• Simply Energy
• Sumo
• Tango Energy
• 1st Energy

Which electricity providers operate in Victoria?

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:

• AGL
• Alinta Energy
• Amaysim Energy
• Click Energy
• Commander
• CovaU
• DC Power Co
• Diamond Energy
• Dodo Power & Gas
• Elysian Energy
• EnergyAustralia
• Energy Locals
• GloBird Energy
• Kogan Energy
• Lumo Energy
• Momentum Energy
• Origin Energy
• People Energy
• Powerclub
• Powerdirect
• Powershop
• QEnergy
• Red Energy
• Simply Energy
• Sumo
• Tango Energy
• 1st Energy

Which electricity providers operate in South Australia?

South Australia has comparatively fewer options than other states when it comes to electricity retailers. South Australians can choose from the following options:

• AGL
• Alinta Energy
• Amaysim Energy
• Amber Electric
• Click Energy
• Commander
• Diamond Energy
• Discover Energy
• Dodo Power & Gas
• EnergyAustralia
• Energy Locals
• Kogan Energy
• Lumo Energy
• Momentum Energy
• Origin Energy
• Powerclub
• Powerdirect
• Powershop
• QEnergy
• ReAmped Energy
• Red Energy
• Simply Energy

Which electricity providers operate in Queensland?

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:

• AGL
• Alinta Energy
• Amaysim Energy
• Click Energy
• DC Power Co
• Diamond Energy
• Discover Energy
• Dodo Power & Gas
• EnergyAustralia
• Energy Locals
• Future X Power
• Kogan Energy
• Locality Planning Energy
• Mojo Power
• Origin Energy
• OVO Energy
• Powerclub
• Powerdirect
• Powershop
• QEnergy
• ReAmped Energy
• Red Energy
• Simply Energy
• 1st Energy

Which electricity providers operate in other states and territories?

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.

• Tasmania: Aurora Energy, 1st Energy, Future X Power
• Western Australia: Synergy, Horizon Power
• Northern Territory: Jacana Energy

Will switching providers cost me money?

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.

Will I lose my power supply if I switch providers?

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.

Which energy company is rated the highest?

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*.

• Compare electricity providers in NSW
• Compare electricity providers in Victoria
• Compare electricity providers in Queensland
• Compare electricity providers in South Australia

*See here for our customer satisfaction ratings methodology and other FAQs.

What if I have a complaint about my electricity company?

To issue a complaint about your electricity retailer, you can contact the energy Ombudsman for your respective state or territory.

• Energy and Water Ombudsman Victoria
• Energy and Water Ombudsman New South Wales
• Energy and Water Ombudsman Queensland
• Energy and Water Ombudsman South Australia
• Energy and Water Ombudsman Western Australia
• Energy Ombudsman Tasmania
• Australian Capital Territory Ombudsman
• Ombudsman Northern 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.

Energy Articles & Guides

Explainers

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Electricity Usage Charges

Electricity Supply Charges

Pay on Time Discounts

Direct Debit Discounts

Guaranteed Discounts

Electricity Tariffs Explained

Peak & Off-Peak Energy Times

How Are Electricity Prices Set?

Default Market Offer Explained

Energy Reference Price Explained

Victorian Default Offer Explained

Switching Energy Providers

Plans & Prices

NSW Energy Prices

VIC Energy Prices

QLD Energy Prices

SA Energy Prices

ACT Energy Prices

Latest Energy Price Changes

Energy Promotions & Deals

No Contract Energy Plans

Fixed vs Variable Energy Plans

Prepaid Energy Plans

Energy Plans for Seniors

Energy Plans for Renters

Bill Smoothing Explained

Expert Energy Picks NSW

Expert Energy Picks VIC

Expert Energy Picks SA

Expert Energy Picks QLD

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Energy Connection Charges

Energy Distributors Explained

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Green Energy in Australia

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