When did you last check your energy bill?
Saving money by ensuring you're on the best deal for your home or business is always beneficial. Fortunately, there are a few simple steps you can take to find out if you are getting the best rate.
The Australian Government provides an independent comparison website where you can enter your specific electricity meter or gas connection point to compare offers: Energy Made Easy. This tool is especially useful if you have a Smart meter, as it can access your actual time-of-use energy usage and suggest the best tariff plan and provider. The easiest way, whether you have a Smart meter or not, is to input your location and your National Meter Identification Number (NMI).
The website also offers resources that explain the various sections of electricity and gas bills, including examples.
Regardless of the energy type, it's important to be familiar with both your daily supply charge and your usage charge per unit of energy. The usage charge might seem lower, but that may not be the case when the daily supply charge is added.
If you're considering a change, call your energy retailer and ask if you're on the best plan. Research from Energy Consumers Australia (ECA) indicates that many people and small businesses can save a significant amount of money just by asking their current company for a better plan. ECA provides a step-by-step guide for calling your provider, along with contact details for energy companies: Powercall Guide.
You can also request a written copy or fact sheet outlining the potential costs, so you can make an informed decision. Additionally, if you tell the retailer you want to think about it, they might offer to call you back a few days later, increasing your chances of securing a better deal.
Energy Information Service for Landholders
Queensland members can take action to get a better rate by accessing the free Energy Information Service for Landholders: EISL.
For those in NSW, there are several options to consider, especially since July 1st marked the start of the new five-yearly tariff charged by network providers. The NSW Government periodically offers assistance with energy upgrades for businesses, such as heating and cooling systems, pumps, motors, lighting, and more. There is a similar program for homes, and the website can refer you to verified suppliers who will also remove old equipment:
