There’s no dearth of reliable energy providers in Australia. However, when it comes to finding the best customer-rated energy providers that align with your needs and budget, the search could get overwhelming.
That’s where we step in – taking the hassle out of the process – with an accurate and data-backed comparison of Australia’s best electricity providers.
Dive into our detailed energy provider deals comparison to get the best value and make a smart switch!
A Comparison of Australia’s Leading Electricity Providers
The electricity market of Australia is dominated by a mix of major providers and reliable retailers. The “BIG 3” – AGL, EnergyAustralia, and Origin Energy – lead the National Electricity Market, supplying millions across NSW, SA, VIC, QLD, and the ACT.
As noted in Canstar Blue’s analysis and from electricity provider reviews, these companies hold strong industry influence and market share.
Here’s a detailed energy provider deals comparison –
1. Origin Energy
Key Features –
- Provides gas and electricity plans across VIC, QLD, NSW, ACT, and SA, with gas in WA too.
- Flexible market provides no lock-in contracts and some options for 25%-100% renewable energy sourcing.
- The Origin app and solar feed-in tariffs for usage tracking and bill payments.
Reasons for Popularity:
- The largest energy retailer in Australia, serving over 4.7 million consumers, making it a reliable household name.
- Razor-sharp focus on carbon emission reduction and renewable energy (aiming to reduce emissions by 2032).
- Competitive pricing and lucrative incentives like bill credits attract cost-conscious customers.
Perfect For:
- Households looking for flexible plans with solar integration and renewable energy options.
- Consumers who value a well-established provider with a premium digital platform.
2. AGL Energy
Key Features
- Supplies gas and electricity in VIC, QLD, NSW, and SA, and gas only in WA.
- Plans include around 20%-100% renewable energy options and solar feed-in tariffs.
- 24/7 customer care service and an app for energy monitoring; Flybuys rewards integration.
Reasons for Popularity
- One of the oldest companies in Australia, with around 22.3% retail market share.
- Diverse energy portfolio (gas, coal, renewables) ensures reliability as well as broad appeal.
- Consistent customer service ratings and innovation in energy solutions enhance its reputation.
Perfect For
- Long-term consumers who value reliability and comprehensive service.
- Suitable for consumers who value rewards and green energy solutions when maintaining service stability.
3. EnergyAustralia
Key Features
- Serves over 1.7 million consumers in QLD, ACT, NSW, VIC, and SA with gas and electricity.
- Solar-specific options, carbon-neutral plans, and energy management tools.
- Virgin Velocity Points rewards and an impressive 66% call response rate within 30 seconds.
Reasons for Popularity
- Part of the "big three," renowned for competitive market plans and widespread availability.
- Strong focus on sustainability through investments in several renewable energy (e.g., wind power).
- Fast customer service responses appeal to those seeking prompt support.
Perfect For
- Eco-conscious customers looking for carbon-neutral or solar-friendly plans.
- Frequent flyers who want to benefit from Velocity Points rewards.
4. Sumo Power
Key Features
- Australian-owned provider offering gas and electricity in VIC and NSW, and electricity only in QLD.
- Provides 7 small business plans and 3 residential, with optional bundling of Internet services.
- Highly rated for consumer service ratings on platforms like Trustpilot.
Reasons for Popularity
- Strong reputation for unparalleled customer support and transparent pricing.
- Appeals to those who prefer bundling utilities for extra convenience and savings.
- Local ownership resonates with customers who favor Australia-owned companies.
Perfect For
- Small businesses or households looking for personalized service and bundled utilities.
- Customers in NSW, QLD and VIC prioritizing simplicity and support.
5. Nectr
Key Features
- Supplies electricity in VIC, SE QLD, ACT, and NSW, providing solar, battery, and bundled plans.
- Certified carbon-neutral, with zero upfront costs for solar and battery installations.
- Ranked among Australia’s top 10 greenest retailers by the Green Electricity Guide.
Reasons for Popularity
- Award-winning for consumer satisfaction in NSW and QLD (2022 finalist).
- Cost-effective renewable energy bundles appeal to environmentally conscious customers.
- Low complaint rate (under 1% in 2022) boosts trust in service quality.
Perfect For
- Eco-friendly households looking to transition to battery or solar storage.
- Budget-conscious customers seeking sustainable energy solutions without high upfront costs.
6. Red Energy
Key Features
- Owned by Snowy Hydro, providing gas and electricity in QLD, NSW, VIC, and SA.
- Flexible off-peak plans with zero lock-in contracts or exit fees and competitive rates.
- High sign-up incentives such as bill credits and discounts.
Reasons for Popularity
- Backed by Snowy Hydro, a leading renewable energy generator, boosting credibility.
- Attractive perks and flexible plans appeal to cost-conscious switchers.
- Maintains an impressive market presence alongside the “big three” competitors.
Perfect For
- Ideal for consumers seeking no-commitment contracts and off-peak savings.
- Appeals to those attracted to reliable service and promotional offers.
7. Powershop
Key Features
- Operates in NSW, VIC, QLD, and SA, offering gas and electricity plans.
- Offers solar feed-in tariffs, carbon-neutral options, and a user-friendly app for usage monitoring.
- Focuses on transparency and a commitment to renewable energy sourcing.
Reasons for Popularity
- Innovative, app-based energy management appeals to tech-savvy users.
- Unhindered dedication to ensuring sustainability attracts environmentally conscious consumers.
- Flexible payment options, including prepayments for discounts, boost affordability.
Perfect For
- Tech-oriented customers who need control over energy usage and costs.
- Eco-conscious households with solar systems looking for flexible, green plans.
A Surefire Way to Slash Your Electricity Bills
One of the best ways to slash your electricity bill is by switching to a more cost-effective plan. Rely on electricity provider reviewsto make the right choice. Apart from this, stick to these tips to ace the deal –
- Make a switch to LEDs and more energy-efficient appliances to reduce lighting costs by up to 75% and minimize overall power use.
- Make sure that you unplug all your unused devices to save up to $100 annually on standby or "vampire" power.
- Consider setting thermostats to ideal ranges and using fans or layers to slash energy costs by up to 10%.
- Run appliances during off-peak hours to bring down your electricity bills.
- Control the usage of hot water by taking shorter showers. Use cold water to wash your clothes and insulate systems to save energy.
- Use curtains, seal drafts, and insulate roofs or walls to boost energy efficiency and temperature control.
- Clean your appliance coils and filters daily to maintain optimal energy efficiency.
The Final Takeaway
Why pay more than necessary? Explore the energy provider deals comparison to pick the best customer-rated energy providersnow! Use reliable comparison tools or count on the Comparable to simplify the process—they will handle the hassle for you.
