Customers now have the freedom to choose their electricity or gas provider in the most parts of Australia. Energy comparison across the market can help businesses and families get a better energy deal. However, deciding on an energy supplier is not always easy, especially considering the range of electricity and gas offers available. This is where energy comparison websites can help. These websites make it easy to compare a range of savings and plans available for your home or business.
These tools most often require information related to your current bill; including postcode and your average energy use. Once this data is entered into the webtool, the information provided can be used to identify different energy plans available in your locality. Energy consumers in New South Wales, South Australia, Queensland or Victoria, can visit websites run by their state government:
| State | Website Address |
|---|---|
| NSW | www.myenergyoffers.nsw.gov.au |
| VIC | www.yourchoice.vic.gov.au |
| QLD | www.qca.org.au/electricity-retail/comparator |
| SA | www.escosa.sa.gov.au/consumer-information.aspx |
It is important to remember that many government based comparison sites do a comparison based on limited information. This helps to give a ‘ball-park’ idea of savings only. A full evaluation takes into account the tariff code for your house – there are many tariff codes within each postcode and each can have a different pricing structure.
Government websites aside, there are many commercial comparison websites available today that may help you to find a better deal. These generally ask for more information relating to your bill, but, provide a more accurate assessment. When using a commercial energy comparison website you need to take note of the following points before making your decision:
- Not all comparison services compare all available offers in the market. As a result, you may not be provided with the best possible option;
- Different energy comparison websites might not quote the same price for the same plan. This is usually a result of them arranging a special offer with the energy supplier;
- Many energy contracts include termination fees – be sure to clarify what these might be when you are provided with your quote.
Not only do energy comparison websites help consumers find a better deal, they can be a source of information regarding:
- Types of energy contracts that are available in the market;
- Ways to reduce power consumption in your home ;
- Changes in power prices;
- What you need to do if you decide to change your energy supplier or energy contract;
- What are the requirements, if you are moving your home or office;
- How to register a complaint;
- What you need to do if your complaint has not been resolved by your supplier;
While the pros and cons can be daunting, most energy comparison sites are created to help consumers. Take your time and always ask questions!
