Key takeaways
- Match tariff type (flat vs time-of-use) across quotes before comparing price.
- Apply conditional discounts only if you will reliably meet the conditions.
- Use estimated annual cost for your kWh — not the comparison rate alone.
Energy plans look incomparable on the surface — different discounts, benefit periods, and tariff structures. Here is how to line them up fairly so the cheapest quote is actually the cheapest for your household.
On this page
What to gather before comparing
You need your annual usage in kWh from a recent bill, your NMI, and whether you have solar export. Smart meter households should note peak vs off-peak split if considering a TOU tariff.
- Recent bill or distributor portal usage data
- NMI from your bill header
- Solar export quantity if applicable
- Current benefit period end date
Comparing like for like
Compare the same tariff structure across retailers. Include conditional discounts only if you are confident you will meet them every cycle. Check what rate the plan reverts to after the benefit period.
| Bill component | What it is | Comparison tip |
|---|---|---|
| Supply charge | Daily fee to stay connected to the network | Fixed cost — you pay this even if usage is zero |
| Usage charge | Cents per kWh (or MJ for gas) consumed | Main lever you control through efficiency and tariff choice |
| Discounts | Conditional or unconditional reductions | Pay-on-time discounts often apply to usage only, not supply |
| Solar feed-in | Credit for electricity exported to grid | Separate rate from what you pay to import — compare both |
| GST | 10% on applicable charges | Shown separately on most bills |
Electricity, gas, and bundles
Gas households should compare electricity and gas rates independently — bundles are not always cheaper than separate best-in-class plans. Confirm the quote covers your correct network and meter type.
After you sign up
Use the cooling-off period if your state provides one. Keep the plan fact sheet and verify your first invoice matches quoted rates. If there is a discrepancy, contact the retailer first, then your state energy ombudsman.
Tip
General information only — not personal financial advice. Consider your own circumstances and read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) before purchasing any policy. Moneyhero may earn referral fees from some providers when you switch through us; this does not change how results are ordered. How we compare
Frequently asked questions
Straight answers about comparing in this category — what affects prices, how switching works, and how to read product documents before you decide.
Should I compare using the comparison rate on fact sheets?
Comparison rates use a standardised reference household. Your actual usage will differ — always compare estimated annual cost using your own kWh figure.
Are unconditional discounts better than conditional ones?
Unconditional discounts apply regardless of payment behaviour. Conditional discounts (pay on time, direct debit) only apply when you meet the condition every billing period — they are less reliably valuable.
Can renters compare and switch energy plans?
In most states, yes — if the property has its own meter. Embedded networks and shared meters have different rules.
What happens when my benefit period ends?
Your plan may revert to a higher standing rate. Set a reminder to compare again before the benefit period expires.