Compare Electricity Providers & Find the Best Rates In Australia
Looking for the cheapest electricity plans, best providers, and lowest energy rates in Australia for 2025? You’re in the right place. Electricity prices change often, and many households are paying more than they should. This guide helps you easily compare electricity providers, find the best deals, and switch to a cheaper plan — all using live pricing from trusted government sources like Australian Energy Regulator (AER) and Victoria’s Essential Services Commission (ESC). Whether you’re in NSW, VIC, QLD, SA, or beyond, you’ll get accurate, up-to-date rates and clear options to start saving today.
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has highlighted that over 80% of households are paying higher prices than necessary, urging consumers to shop around for better deals. Now is your opportunity to save.
Cheapest Electricity Providers in Australia by State
See these In-depth guide by state:
- Cheapest Plans & Best Rates in NSW
- Cheapest Plans & Best Rates in QLD
- Cheapest Plans & Best Rates in VIC
- Cheapest Plans & Best Rates in SA
To learn what “cheap” really means see our Guide to Cheapest Electricity Plans & Providers in Australia
Best Solar Feed-in Tariffs in Australia by State
| State | Provider Offering Best Tariff | Feed-in Tariff Rate (c/kWh) | Max Solar FIT (c/kWh) | Notable Conditions |
| NSW | Origin Energy | 5.0 c | 18.0 c | Only if buy solar through Origin |
| QLD | ENGIE | 5.5 | 12 | 12c first 8kWh per day |
| VIC | ENGIE | 5.5 c | 12 | 12c first 8kWh per day |
| SA | AGLiO Energy Retail Services | 0.0 c | 33.0 c | 33c peak only (6:00pm – 9:00pm) |
In-depth guide to the Best Solar Feed-in Tariffs for each state:
- Best Solar Feed-in Tariffs NSW
- Best Solar Feed-in Tariffs QLD
- Best Solar Feed-in Tariffs VIC
- Best Solar Feed-in Tariffs SA
Learn more: See our Ultimate Guide to The Best Feed in Tariffs in Australia
Average Electricity Usage & Costs by State
This breakdown gives you a quick reference for how much electricity the average household uses in each state — and what that typically costs. It helps you benchmark your own usage and spot if you’re paying more than average. Use this info to better understand your bill, compare plans more accurately, or decide whether solar, off-peak tariffs, or provider switching could save you more.
| State/Territory | Average Household Usage (kWh/year) | Typical Annual Electricity Cost ($) |
|---|---|---|
| New South Wales (NSW) | 5,237 kWh | $1,500 – $1,900 |
| Queensland (QLD) | 6,169 kWh | $1,500 – $1,800 |
| Victoria (VIC) | 5,077 kWh | $1,300 – $1,900 |
| South Australia (SA) | 6,171 kWh | $1,800 – $2,200 |
| Western Australia (WA) | 5,198 kWh | $1,500 – $2,000 |
| Tasmania (TAS) | 8,784 kWh | $1,300 – $1,800 |
| Australian Capital Territory (ACT) | 6,107 kWh | $1,200 – $1,600 |
| Northern Territory (NT) | 8,500 kWh | $1,500 – $1,900 |
Government Energy Rebates & Incentives (2025)
| State/Territory | General Household Support | Low-Income & Medical Assistance | Energy Upgrade Grants/Incentives |
|---|---|---|---|
| NSW | $300 Federal Relief | $350/year Low Income Rebate Up to $400/year Medical Energy Rebate | — |
| SA | $300 Federal Relief + $300 SA State Relief (total $600) | $241.63/year Concession Energy Discount Up to $238/year Medical Cooling/Heating Rebate | REPS Appliance Discounts (open to all households) |
| VIC | $300 Federal Relief | 17.5% off electricity usage (Annual Electricity Concession) $250 Power Saving Bonus (universal) $500 Income-Tested Electricity Rebate $17–$88/season Medical Cooling Payment | Victorian Energy Upgrades Program (discounts on efficient appliances, heating, cooling) |
| ACT | $300 Federal Relief | $750/year Utilities Concession | $2,500 Home Energy Support Grant (income-tested for solar/hot water) |
| QLD | $300 Federal Relief + $1,000 QLD Bonus (total $1,300) | $372.20/year Electricity Rebate (for seniors, concession holders) | — |
| WA | $300 Federal Relief + $400 WA Bonus (total $700) | $326.32/year Energy Assistance Payment (for concession holders) | — |
Important Notes
- Every Australian household automatically receives a $300 federal energy credit across 2025.
- Queensland adds a $1,000 bonus; Western Australia adds a $400 bonus.
- Low-income, pensioner, and medical needs customers may access additional ongoing rebates (depending on concession card status or medical documentation).
- Home energy upgrades and appliance discounts are available in VIC, ACT, and SA — grants are income-tested in some cases (e.g., ACT’s $2,500 solar grant).
- Eligibility for special programs often requires a Pensioner Concession Card, Health Care Card, Veterans Gold Card, or proof of medical necessity.
Learn More: Complete Guide to Electricity Rebates & Incentives
How to Compare Electricity Providers
Step 1: Understand Your Current Usage & Costs
Before switching, review your latest electricity bill to check:
- Average monthly usage (kWh)
- Your provider’s rates & fees
- Discounts or rebates applied
Step 2: Compare Key Plan Features
| Feature | Why It Matters |
| Usage Rates (c/kWh) | Determines your total electricity costs. |
| Daily Supply Charge | A fixed fee you pay daily, regardless of usage. |
| Green Energy Options | Some providers offer 100% renewable electricity. |
| Discounts & Promotions | Look for pay-on-time or sign-up bonuses. |
| Contract Terms | Compare fixed vs. variable rates, contract length, and exit fees. |
Step 3: Use Our Electricity Plan Comparison Tool
Enter your postcode to find the best available deals in your area.
Step 4: Switch to a Better Plan
Once you’ve found a better offer, switching is hassle-free. Most all providers will handle the transfer without service interruptions.
State-by-State Electricity Comparison: The Best Rates Near You
Electricity prices and feed in tariffs vary significantly by state, making it crucial to compare energy providers based on your location. Below, we break down the best strategies for securing a cost-effective electricity plan, factoring in pricing, government incentives, and solar benefits across different Australian states.
See more in depth here:
📍 Electricity Comparison NSW
📍 Electricity Comparison QLD
📍 Electricity Comparison VIC
📍 Electricity Comparison SA
Each guide covers:
- Cheapest electricity providers per state
- Best solar feed-in tariffs available
- Government rebates and incentives
How to Switch Electricity Providers
- Compare Your Current Plan – Check your usage, rates, and discounts.
- Find a Better Deal – Use our electricity comparison tool.
- Check for Exit Fees – Some contracts may charge an early termination fee.
- Sign Up with a New Provider – Submit your postcode for a seamless switch.
- Wait for the Switch to Complete – It typically takes 1-2 billing cycles.
How to Reduce Your Power Bill
If you’re looking to cut down on your electricity costs, try these strategies:
- Switch Electricity Providers: Review and switch plans every 12 months to avoid loyalty penalties.
- Install Solar Panels & Maximise Solar Self-Use: Run appliances during daylight hours using solar.
- Use Reverse-Cycle Air Conditioning Efficiently: Set to 24°C cooling / 18–20°C heating to minimise running costs.
- Install LED Lighting: Replace all bulbs with LEDs — uses up to 80% less power.
- Seal Gaps and Insulate: Stop drafts around doors, windows, and add ceiling insulation.
- Optimise Hot Water Systems: Lower the thermostat to 50°C or upgrade to a hot water heat pump unit.
- Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Appliances: Look for 4–6 Star rated fridges, washers, dryers, and aircons.
- Use Smart Plugs and Timers: Cut standby power use from TVs, consoles, chargers and modems.
- Shift Usage to Off-Peak Times: On time-of-use tariffs, run appliances during cheaper night rates.
- Apply for Government Rebates: Access solar, battery, efficient appliance, and upgrade incentives.
Learn More: Best Ways to Reduce Your Power Bill
Why Compare Electricity Plans?
- Lower Energy Bills: Switching providers can cut costs by securing better rates and discounts.
- Transparent Fees: Avoid hidden charges like exit fees and late payment penalties by comparing options.
- Avoid Expensive Default Plans: Many households unknowingly pay more on default market offers (DMO/VDO).
- Better Plan Features: Some providers offer no lock-in contracts, flexible pricing, and bill smoothing options.
- Solar & Green Energy Options: Maximise your savings with higher solar feed-in tariffs and renewable energy plans.
- Government Rebates & Incentives: Each state offers concessions & rebates that reduce electricity costs.
Common Mistakes When Switching Energy Providers
Switching electricity providers can deliver major savings — but only if you avoid the most common pitfalls.
Before switching, homeowners should always:
- Check for Exit Fees and Lock-Ins: Review contract terms carefully to avoid early termination penalties and unexpected benefit expiries.
- Compare Total Costs, Not Just Discounts: Focus on the estimated annual cost, not headline percentage discounts that may hide inflated rates.
- Choose the Right Tariff Type: Match your usage pattern (steady, night-heavy, or peak-demand) to the right plan (Flat Rate, Time-of-Use, or Demand Tariff).
- Watch for Hidden Charges: Review the Energy Price Fact Sheet for extra fees like paper billing or card payment surcharges.
- Maximise Solar Benefits Carefully: Solar households must balance low grid rates with competitive feed-in tariffs, depending on their energy export habits.
- Confirm Switching Timelines: Know whether you have a smart meter for faster switching, or if you’ll need to wait for a scheduled meter read.
- Review GreenPower Options: If renewable energy matters to you, compare GreenPower availability and costs across providers.
- Secure Available Rebates: Check your eligibility for federal and state energy concessions before switching, and ensure your new provider supports them.
- Choose Providers with Good Billing and Support Options: Flexibility in billing and strong customer service can make managing your account much easier.
- Recompare Annually: Energy prices and discounts change often. Set a reminder to review your plan every 12 months to stay on the best deal.
Switching is one of the simplest ways to reduce your electricity costs — but a smart, well-informed switch makes all the difference.
Learn More: Top 10 Mistakes to Avoid When Switching Electricity Providers in Australia
Find a Better Electricity Deal Today
Switching to a better electricity plan can help you save hundreds of dollars per year. By using a comparison tool and taking advantage of rebates, you can find the best deal for your home or business.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Which Australian state has the cheapest electricity?
What is the cheapest electricity provider in Australia?
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