What is the Average Electricity Bill?
Has your latest electricity bill got you wondering if it’s normal to be coughing up that much for your power? Having an idea of the average electricity bill in Australia can help determine whether you should be shopping around for a better deal from your electricity supplier.
Average Quarterly Electricity Bill
According to a survey by Finder, where you live can factor into how much you can expect your bill to come in at.
Below is a breakdown of the average quarterly electricity bill according to state:
- Queensland - $347/quarter
- New South Whales - $386/quarter
- South Australia - $405/quarter
- Victoria - $338/quarter
Comparing your quarterly charge to the average electricity bill in your state can provide a useful starting point to determine whether you’re paying to much. However, it’s important to remember that these averages take into account both differing electricity rates and varying electricity usage behaviours.
Electricity Rates
Comparing electricity rates alone can reveal which states are paying more for their electricity – regardless of how much they use.
Electricity rates are the amount you are charged in cents (c) per kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity you use. Retailers will purchase electricity from the National Energy Market and resell it on to their consumers, ie. you. Supply and demand will usually determine how expensive these charges are. However, prices are also regulated by government and industry authorities.
Once again, on average, the price your retailer will charge you differs from state to state. This is mostly due to differing regulations, laws and power distribution factors within each state.
According to Finder, the following are the average electricity prices charged in each state from AGL, Origin, EnergyAustralia, Red Energy, Click Energy and Alinta Energy:
- Queensland – 21.68 c/kWh
- New South Whales – 24.68 c/kWh
- South Australia – 35.25 c/kWh
- Victoria – 22.91 c/kWh
How Does Your Bill Stack Up?
Take a close look at your latest electricity bill. If your usage rates are comparable to your state’s average but your total bill still comes in substantially higher than average, it could be time to take a look at your electricity usage behaviour. Our helpful guide to avoiding electricity bill shock is full of tips to keep your electricity costs down.
On the other hand, if your usage rate appears vastly more expensive then the state average, it could be time to shop around for a better deal. With retailers constantly competing for the best wholesale price on electricity, you could secure a great deal on price simply by comparing suppliers. Usage rates are the most important detail to consider, but it’s worth keeping an eye out for promotional deals or hidden fees and terms.
At Compare and Connect, we are readily available to walk you through the comparison process to find the perfect electricity plan for you. We can even take care of the switching process. Cheaper electricity is just a few clicks away, start comparing online now.