Choosing the right retail plan

Network tariffs are charged to energy retailers, not customers

We charge network tariffs to electricity retailers, who then bundle these costs into the retail pricing plans offered to customers.

This means that the price you pay for electricity is determined by the retail plan you choose from your energy retailer.

The following information will help you consider what retail pricing plan is the right one for you.

Start by understanding when and how much electricity you use

Choosing the right retail pricing plan starts with knowing your energy consumption patterns.

Compared to a flat-rate plan, time-of-use pricing offers lower prices during off-peak periods - midday, overnight, and weekends - and higher prices during peak demand periods, typically weekday afternoons and evenings.

• Peak rates are typically charged in the late afternoon and evening on weekdays
• Off-Peak rates are charged at all other times, with the lowest prices typically in the middle of the day and overnight.

By understanding when and how much electricity you use really helps you save by selecting a retail plan that best fits your lifestyle.

Flat vs time of use pricing

Retailers offer a range of electricity plans to suit different households and usage patterns. Review your latest electricity bill to understand your energy consumption and find a plan that best fits your needs.

Flat rate

Flat rate plans charge a consistent rate for electricity usage, regardless of the time of day.

It is typically best for households that:

• use electricity primarily on weekday afternoons and evenings
• cannot shift energy use to off-peak times
• prefer predictable pricing as there are not time-of-use variations.

If adjusting your energy usage isn’t practical, a flat-rate plan ensures steady costs throughout the day, making it a reliable choice for households with consistent energy needs.

Time-of-use

Time-of-use rates change throughout the day, offering lower prices during off-peak periods and higher prices during peak demand times when compared to a flat rate:

Lower off-peak rates apply overnight, during the middle of the day and on weekends when demand for electricity is lower and solar energy is abundant. 
Higher peak rates apply on the afternoon and evenings of weekdays when electricity demand is at its highest.

Time-of-use pricing is ideal for households and businesses that can shift high-energy activities—such as running air conditioners, hot water systems, pool pumps, clothes dryers, and dishwashers—away from peak periods to take advantage of lower rates.

Smart meters & time-of-use 

To access time-of-use pricing, you must have a smart meter. If you don’t already have one, contact your retailer to check availability and upgrade options.

Smart meters enable both time-of-use and flat-rate pricing plans, so you can choose the option that suits you best. Learn more about smart meters and how they can help you manage your electricity costs here.

Controlled load

Controlled load applies only to specific appliances that are connected to a separately metered circuit. Power to these circuits is externally regulated, meaning the appliance can only operate during designated off-peak periods, typically when demand for electricity is lower.

Controlled load helps you save if you are happy agree to have certain appliances—such as storage hot water systems, underfloor heating, and pool pumps - separately metered and controlled so they are switched off during peak periods to secure you a lower electricity price.

Taking control of your energy costs

Understanding your electricity usage and available pricing options empowers you to make smarter choices, reduce costs, and get the best value from your energy provider. Review your plan and compare options by:

• checking your current energy plan to ensure it's still the best fit for your household
• shopping around and compare retail pricing plans to find a competitive deal
• visiting the Australian Energy Regulator’s Energy Made Easy website to compare plans at least once a year.