Get the best deal on your electricity bill

There are two simple ways to find out if you could save money on your electricity bill.

1. Check your bill and ask for a better deal

Your energy retailer must put a message on your bill at least once every 3 months to tell you whether it has a different plan that might save you money and how to contact them to find out more. The message must be on the front page of your bill next to the amount due and it must be easy to find. Here is an example of what the message might look like. Retailers can choose to present the message differently but it should still be easy to find and next to the amount due.

Example of the message you will see:

You can take action at any time by contacting your retailer to check whether they have any plans that would be cheaper than the plan you are on.

2. Compare energy companies

Visit the Australian Government’s free Energy Made Easy website to see what energy plans are available from the retailers in your area. You don’t need to give any personal details, but you can enter your energy use to get an estimate of how much you would pay under different retailers’ plans. You can use this comparison to work out which one will be best for you.

Find out how the price and promotion of electricity is regulated to keep costs down for ACT residents and businesses on the National Energy Customer Framework.

Experiencing bill shock?

Call your energy provider straight away. Your energy provider can help you access financial support. This could include hardship payments, concessions, payment extensions and flexible payment options.

If you're experiencing financial hardship, help is available. Find out what support you can get to help with the cost of living.

Know your rights

Energy is an essential service. Laws exist to protect energy consumers and ensure safeguards are in place.

Find out how the price and promotion of electricity is regulated to keep costs down for ACT residents and businesses on the National Energy Customer Framework.

Learn more about your rights as an energy consumer.

Get support to reduce energy use

Your energy retailer might be able to help you reduce energy consumption by providing discounts on:

• efficient electric space heating and cooling systems
• electric hot water heat pumps
• insulation
• other items that provide energy savings and reduce energy bills while maintaining quality of life.

Ask your energy retailer if they offer discounts or other energy savings.

ACT Government Support

• The Sustainable Home Advice service is your one stop shop to get information on how to reduce your energy bills and make your home more comfortable. You can also learn about what ACT Government supports and rebates you may be eligible for.
• Get a free in-home energy assessment from one of our energy experts. Learn the best actions you can take to make your home more comfortable and reduce your energy use and costs. Assessments are tailored for renters and homeowners.
• The Home Energy Support Program can provide up to $5,000 in rebates to homeowners with an eligible concession card. It can help with upfront costs when installing rooftop solar, energy efficient appliances and ceiling insulation.
• The Home Energy Efficiency Program can provide help with draught-proofing and window coverings. It also offers free expert advice on lowering your electricity, gas and water bills.
• The Sustainable Household Scheme can provide low-interest loans of up to $15,000. It supports the installation of energy-efficient electric appliances. It can also help pay for electric cars and EV charging.
• The ACT Government offers free workshops to help Canberran’s access detailed energy saving advice, tools and resources.
• The ACT Government has partnered with electricity retailers to develop a utilities hardship fund. Customers who need financial support can receive $100 vouchers or rebates to help pay their electricity bills. Access this service by calling your provider.
• Concession card holders can access the Electricity, Gas and Water Rebate through their energy supplier to help with energy bills. You can get up to $800 per year back on your electricity, gas, water or sewage costs.

More ways to save

Get tips on how to use less energy in summer and winter, and check out these handy DIY videos.