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Everything You Need to Know Before Comparing Energy Plans in Brisbane

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Everything You Need to Know Before Comparing Energy Plans in Brisbane

Comparing energy plans in Brisbane can be daunting with so many options. This guide covers everything you need to know and helps you to make an informed decision, before you compare various energy plans available in Brisbane.

The Energy Market in Brisbane

Brisbane is a part of South East Queensland where the energy market is deregulated. This means you can choose from many electricity providers in Brisbane who set their own prices. The competition between providers means better deals and services for consumers.

In regional Queensland the energy prices are regulated by the Queensland Competition Authority so there are fewer options and less competitive pricing​.

Types of Energy Plans

When comparing energy plans, you’ll mainly find two types of plans: fixed-rate plans and variable-rate plans.

Fixed Rate Plans:

  • Price Stability: These plans lock in a specific price per kilowatt-hour (kWh) for the term of your contract. Your rates won’t change so you have stability and predictability.
  • Protection Against Market Changes: Fixed rate plans are good when market prices rise however your rates stay the same.

Variable Rate Plans:

  • Market-Dependent Pricing: With these plans the price per kWh can go up or down depending on market conditions. You can save if market prices drop​.
  • Flexibility: Variable rate plans often have more flexible terms, sometimes no lock-in contract so you can switch providers if a better deal comes along.

What to Consider

Choosing the right energy plan involves considering the following:

Energy Usage and Needs:

  • Assess Your Usage: Look at your household’s energy usage patterns. How much energy do you use daily, weekly, monthly and seasonally​.
  • Compare Past Bills: Check your previous energy bills to get an idea of your average usage. This will help you choose a plan that suits your needs.

Rates and Tariffs:

  • Compare Rates: Look at the different rates and tariffs offered by various providers. Look at the supply charge (daily fixed cost) and the usage charge (per kWh).
  • Tariff Types: Understand the different types of tariffs, time-of-use tariffs which charge different rates at different times of the day and controlled load tariffs which apply to specific appliances like electric hot water systems.

Discounts and Incentives:

  • Check Discounts: Look for any discounts or incentives, sign-up bonuses, pay-on-time discounts or renewable energy credits. Some plans offer discounts for direct debit or paperless billing​.
  • Read Terms & Conditions: Be aware of the conditions attached to these discounts. Some may only be for a limited time or require specific payment methods​.

Contract Terms and Exit Fees:

  • Contract Length: Check the contract length and terms. Some plans have no lock-in contracts, others have longer terms with price guarantees.
  • Exit Fees: What are the exit fees if you terminate the contract early? These can be big, so make sure you know the costs if you switch mid-contract.

Billing and Payment Options:

  • Billing Frequency: How often will you be billed? Monthly billing is good for budgeting, quarterly billing is better if you prefer fewer transactions​.
  • Payment Methods: What payment options are available? Some providers offer discounts for direct debit, others for online payment portals or mobile apps​.

Comparison Tools 

Energy Made Easy:

  • Government Service: The Australian government’s Energy Made Easy website is a free, independent service that lets you compare energy plans in Brisbane based on your suburb or postcode. This tool considers your energy usage and preferences to suggest the best options available in your area.
  • Simple Steps: Enter your suburb or postcode, tell us about your household or business energy usage and then compare.


Commercial Comparison Sites:

  • Comparison Platforms: These sites compare energy providers and plans offered by them. They have detailed reviews, ratings and customer feedback so you can see what’s in a plan.
  • Expert Advice: Many commercial sites also have expert advice and insights into the market so you can make better decisions​

Choosing the Right Plan

Choosing the right plan is more than just comparing prices. Here are some tips to help you decide:

Be Flexible:

  • Contract Terms: Choose plans that offer flexibility in contract length and exit fees. No lock-in contracts can be good if you think your living situation or energy usage will change.
  • Customer Service: Consider the customer service offered by the provider. Good customer service can be gold when dealing with billing issues or service outages.​


Renewable Options:

  • Green Energy Plans: If being green is important to you, look for plans that include renewable energy or green energy options. Some providers offer 100% renewable energy plans as standard which can help reduce your carbon footprint​ .
  • Solar Feed-In Tariffs: If you have solar panels, check the feed-in tariffs offered by each provider. These can vary greatly and impact the value you get from your solar investment.


Read the Fine Print:

  • Contract Terms: Read the fine print of any plan. Look out for hidden fees such as disconnection fees, late payment fees or fees for extra services.
  • Promotional Rates: Be aware of promotional rates that may increase after an introductory period. Know what the standard rates will be when the promotion ends​.


Get Rebates and Concessions:

  • Government Assistance: Check if you’re eligible for any government rebates or concessions such as the Queensland electricity rebate for seniors, pensioners or low income households. These can save you a lot of money​.
  • Utility Discounts: Some energy providers offer extra discounts for customers on government benefits or with medical conditions that require higher energy usage​.

Switch Now

Switching can save you big and give you better service. Here’s how:

Compare Plans:

      • Research: Use comparison tools to find the best plan for you. Consider price, contract terms and customer service ratings​.
      • Gather Info: Collect your current usage, rates and any existing contract terms. This will help you compare accurately.


Contact the New Provider:

      • Start the Switch: Once you’ve found a plan, contact the new provider to start the switch. They’ll handle the transition including notifying your current provider.
      • Provide Details: Be ready to give them your National Meter Identifier (NMI) and your current energy usage details.


Cooling Off Period:

      • Review the Plan: Most plans have a cooling off period (10 days) where you can cancel without penalty if you change your mind.
      • Use the Time Wisely: During this period review all the terms and conditions again to make sure the plan meets your expectations.


Final Meter Reading:

    • Accurate Billing: Make sure a final meter reading is taken to close your current account and start your new one. This is crucial to avoid billing disputes and only being charged for what you used​ .

End of the Blog

Compare energy plans in Brisbane is about understanding your usage, comparing different types of energy plans and using the right comparison tools to get the best deals. Consider rates, discounts, contract terms and renewable options and make an informed decision that suits your energy needs and budget. Switching can save you big so make sure to review your plan every year to get the best deal.