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Switching Energy Providers
Switching Energy Providers
Written by
Rachel Gregg
Edited by
Ellie Garran
Reviewed by
Julia PaszkaCompare Electricity & Gas Plans
Save time and effort by comparing a range of energy plans with iSelect
Long story short
State rules can limit your ability to switch
ACT, NSW, SA, VIC, and SE QLD residents can generally switch providers; WA, NT, TAS, and regional QLD might have limited options or price caps in place so best to check with your current provider.
Households could save around $100 to $250 annually by switching depending where they live
The process is usually quick and hassle-free.
What to look at when comparing
Compare usage and supply charges, fees, discounts, and plan types to avoid costs that eat into your savings.
Why might I want to switch my energy provider?
54% of Aussie households want a simple, reliable electricity plan that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg.1Energy Consumer Australia – Consumer energy report card: consumer knowledge of electricity pricing and responsiveness to price signals While that might sound like panning for gold in the Yarra River, it’s easier than you think. Switching electricity providers could save you around $100 to $250 a year (depending on your postcode), and the process isn’t nearly as painful as it sounds.
Switching over to a new plan isn’t just about your wallet – it could also mean finding a plan that works better with your household habits. For example, if you work from home, you could switch over to a time-of-use tariff and use nearly all of your power during cheaper off-peak hours. Or if you’re adding solar panels to your home, switching to a feed-in tariff plan might give you a little extra payout on top of what you could be saving from all that renewable energy.
Most people put off switching because they think it’s complicated, like doing your taxes. But trust us, it’s not. A lot of people make the change when moving home (you’re already making calls, so why not add another to the list?). But you don’t have to wait until moving day to compare. Ideally, a regular check to compare what’s out there is the best way to make sure you’re getting a great deal.
Now, no one’s ever going to be happy to see an electricity bill in the mail, but switching could help make them less of an unwelcome guest. Our top tip to those jumping ship? Get to know your current plan and what other options are out there. That’s why we’re here to help you make the switch without the headache.
What is an energy provider?
Your energy provider (or energy retailer) is the one who buys power from big distributors and bundles it up in a nice little package for your home. While they aren’t the ones creating or transporting the power, they’re essentially your middleman. They’re the ones sending you those bills and the ones who take care of your plan.
Can I change my energy provider?
Changing providers isn’t limited to moving house. However, being able to change your energy provider really depends on which state you live in and their rules. In most states, energy markets are deregulated and driven by retail energy providers, which means you have the freedom to choose your retailer. But it’s not the same for all states.
Depending on where you live, you could have the choice between a standard retail plan or a market retail plan.
Standard retail plans or standing offers are the only option available in some states and a choice in others. They’re also known as the Default Market Offer (or Victorian Default Offer for Victorians), with energy prices for these plans being set once a year.
Market retail plans, on the other hand, are set by energy companies. These plans are more competitive and are based on market prices, which may also mean more frequent changes. But these plans can often be more flexible and have discounts and more appealing rates.
| VIC | Yes, you can change your energy provider |
| NSW | Yes, you can change your energy provider |
| ACT | Yes, you can change your energy provider |
| SA | Yes, you can change your energy provider |
| TAS | Yes, but there’s only a handful of energy providers to choose from |
| QLD | If you live in South East QLD, you can change your energy provider. For those in regional QLD, you can also change, provided the provider is operational in your area |
| WA | No, you generally can’t change your provider for electricity, but you can for gas |
| NT | In some parts of the NT, you can choose from a limited range of energy providers |
One exception to this rule is embedded networks. If you live in an apartment block, retirement village, or caravan park, you could find that your building is only serviced by one energy provider. If that’s the case, you might not have the option to switch. This applies no matter what state you live in (although in Victoria they’re being phased out).
Energy information for your state
How can I change energy providers?
Switching providers is easier than you might think. Just call iSelect and we’ll handle the whole thing, from seeing which plans from our range meet your lifestyle and budget to contacting your provider and setting up a smooth switch. All you need to do is share a few details and tell us which potential new plan you like the sound of. Then, you can sit back and relax while we take care of the nitty-gritty.
If you’re in Victoria and not ready to switch just yet, you can still keep an eye on your options. When your energy bill comes, every few months you’ll see a ‘Best Offer Notice’ inside. This is a handy little box that asks, ‘Could you save more money on another plan?’ While this only compares plans from your current provider (not the whole market), it’s a quick way to check whether you’re already on the best deal they offer.
What should I look for when comparing energy providers?
There’s a range of things to look at when comparing electricity and gas retailers, like your own needs, your budget, and your household’s energy use. On top of these things specific to you, there are a few extra things to look at when switching energy providers.
Usage and supply charges
All bills are generally made up of two main charges: supply and usage charges. Your energy usage charge is the cost of the power you use in cents per kilowatt hours (kWh), while the supply charge is a daily charge for keeping your home connected. Compare these with your current electricity or gas plan to weigh up the benefits of switching.
Plan types
Energy plans come with a range of tariffs, which all have their own things to consider when switching. Understanding the difference between these and what specific tariff type is at your property, like a single-rate versus a time-of-use tariff (which needs a smart meter), can help you choose a plan that makes more sense for your usage habits and could help your budget.
Fees
Some plans come with extra fees, and while they might seem minor, they can still chip away at your savings. Not all retailers have the same fees, but it’s important to check your plan for any that might be included. These could be surcharges for credit card payments, fees for paper bills, and energy disconnection/reconnection fees.
Discounts
Discounts are always a green flag when comparing your energy plan, but it’s important to understand the details around them. Some require you to pay on time or set up a direct debit to qualify. So, make sure you understand what’s needed to actually receive the discount so you’re not left disappointed. And don’t forget to check for any rebates you could be eligible for, as well.
Helpful tip
Thinking of switching? Don’t get caught out! No one wants to score a cheaper plan only to be hit with an exit fee on the final bill from your previous provider. Take a quick peek at your current plan’s conditions first, since some contracts have minimum terms or notice periods. Trust us, it’s worth double-checking before making the move; your wallet will thank you later.
Julia Paszka
General Manager – Utilities & Credit Cards
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to switch providers?
These days, switching providers is faster than bingeing your favourite show. For electricity, it should take no longer than 48 hours (two business days) to complete your energy switchover, and gas is generally switched on your next meter read. Just double-check with your new provider, as exact times can vary.
Is it easy to change providers?
Changing energy providers can be quicker than deciding what to have for dinner. Call iSelect, and we’ll help you find a plan that suits your needs from our range of plans and providers in just minutes. If you prefer to do the hard work yourself, you can browse through our range of providers and plans yourself. Either way, it’s simple!
How much does it cost me to switch providers?
Switching energy providers is usually free. You just need to watch out for any contract terms like exit fees or fees to connect or disconnect a plan. If you do have exit fees, you’ll need to pay these before you can leave your current provider.
How often can I switch energy providers?
You can switch as often as you like! There’s no limit as long as your account’s up to date and you’re not locked into a fixed-term plan. So, if you spot a better deal, there’s nothing stopping you from making the move.
Ready to power up your savings?
Why stick with the same old energy deal when you could be paying less? Switching is quicker than brewing your morning pour-over coffee, so it’s kind of a no-brainer. Lower bills mean more cash for the things you actually want to spend money on.
Start comparing online from a range of providers and plans, or call our comparison experts at 1800 664 532 to make the switch as simple as pie!
Get started on comparing energy plans today!
Save time and effort by comparing a range of energy plans with iSelect
iSelect does not compare all energy providers or plans in the market. The availability of plans may change from time to time, depending on who iSelect’s providers are and what plans they make available to iSelect. Not all plans made available from iSelect providers may be compared by iSelect either due to commercial arrangements, area or availability, so not all plans or providers compared by iSelect will be available to all customers. Some plans and special offers are available only from iSelect’s contact centre or website. Energy plans are available only for properties located in eligible areas of Victoria, New South Wales, South East Queensland, South Australia and ACT. Click here to view iSelect’s range of providers.