With summer in full swing and the mercury rising, it’s more important than ever to know where your power comes from and how to keep your electricity bills in check. Queensland’s electricity market is as varied as the state, with QLD electricity providers and prices depending on where you call home. The divide comes down to two key electricity networks—Energex and Ergon Energy. Whether you're soaking up the sun on the Gold Coast or enjoying the laid-back vibes of regional Queensland, understanding your local network can help you stay ahead of the game and potentially save you some cash regarding QLD electricity prices during the heat of summer.
Electricity Distribution Networks in Queensland
1. Energex (South-East Queensland):
This network covers densely populated areas, including Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Logan, Ipswich, Redlands, and Moreton Bay. Here, the electricity market is deregulated, which means residents can choose from over 20 Qld electricity providers. Deregulation fosters competition, leading to varied plans, prices, and promotional discounts, giving consumers significant flexibility.
2. Ergon Energy (Regional Queensland):
This network serves regions outside of South-East Queensland, including northern and western areas of the state. Unlike the Energex region, the electricity market here is regulated, and Ergon Energy Retail is the sole provider. Prices are standardised and set by the Queensland Competition Authority, ensuring consistent costs but leaving no room for competitive shopping.
How QLD electricity prices are set:
• Southeast Queensland: Since 2019, the Australian Energy Regulator has set a price cap (Default Market Offer or DMO) for households on standing offers. Only a small percentage of customers are on these standing offers, as most can choose from over 20 Qld energy retailers. The DMO helps compare market offers but doesn’t apply to most customers directly.
• Regional Queensland: QLD Electricity prices are regulated by the Queensland Competition Authority. The Queensland Government subsidises the cost of electricity in regional areas through payments to Ergon Energy Retail and Origin Energy. In 2024–25, over $604 million was allocated for these subsidies, including funds for isolated communities.
What This Means for QLD Electricity Prices
In South-East Queensland (Energex Region), electricity providers compete for customers, offering various plans with benefits such as better customer service, discounts, flexible rates, etc. The key to securing lower QLD electricity prices is comparing plans from providers like Sumo. Other regions in Queensland, where electricity is supplied through government-regulated providers, typically have less competition, resulting in more standardized prices and plans.
How to Choose an Electricity Provider in Queensland
For residents in South-East Queensland, selecting the right electricity provider is crucial to minimising costs during summer. Here’s how to navigate the options:
1. Compare Plans Online: Utilise tools to compare prices, rates, and features. Many providers offer introductory discounts or special summer rates.
2. Understand Tariffs: Check for time-of-use or flat-rate plans. Time-of-use tariffs may help you save by using electricity during off-peak hours.
3. Look for Extra Benefits: Some providers include additional perks like new customer deals, loyalty rewards, etc.
4. Consider Solar Feed-In Tariffs: If you have solar panels, choosing a provider with competitive feed-in tariffs allows you to earn credits for excess energy exported to the grid.
Stay Cool This Summer - Saving on QLD Electricity Prices
Queensland’s sun doesn’t mess around, but staying cool during the summer doesn’t have to mean sky-high electricity bills. Whether chilling on the coast or sweltering inland, these fair dinkum tips keep you comfy and your wallet intact.
Cooling Without Overloading Your AC:
• Set It, Don’t Freeze It: Keep your air conditioner at a breezy 24–26°C. This range is energy-efficient and cool enough to keep your home pleasant without overworking the system.
• Fans Are Beaut Mates: Fans are like reliable mates. They’re cheap, cheerful, and get the job done. Pop one on and feel instantly cooler without blowing your budget.
• Close Gaps: Seal windows and doors to prevent warm air from seeping indoors.
Natural Cooling:
• Block Out Sunlight: Reduce heat by using curtains, blinds, or reflective films.
• Ventilate Early or Late: Open windows in the morning or evening to let in cooler air.
• Shade Your Home: Plant trees or install awnings to shield your home from direct sunlight.
Optimise Appliance Use:
• Run Appliances Off-Peak: For households in the Energex region on time-of-use plans, operate energy-intensive appliances during cheaper, off-peak hours.
• Switch to LEDs: Replace traditional bulbs with energy-efficient LED lighting.
• Unplug Devices: Turn off electronics when not in use to avoid phantom energy drain.
Queensland summers are all about sunshine, sizzling barbies, and staying cool under the blazing sun. But with rising temperatures, managing energy use becomes key to avoiding a shock when the bills arrive. By understanding QLD electricity providers and using energy-saving strategies, you can stay comfortable without letting electricity prices burn a hole in your pocket.
Knowing how your electricity market operates is crucial whether you're in a bustling city or a regional area. Combining this knowledge with smart usage habits allows you to tailor your energy consumption and save money throughout the summer months. Planning goes a long way in helping you keep cool, save on costs, and make the most of Queensland’s sunny vibes.
Curious about your electricity options?
Leave your QLD postcode below to see how much you could save with local providers and plans tailored to your area.
Source: Understand the electricity supply system | Homes and housing | Queensland Government
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