The way we generate and use electricity is changing!
“The state once known for not having enough power has become the first major jurisdiction in the world to be powered entirely by solar energy.” - https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-10-25/all-sa-power-from-solar-for-first-time/12810366
What does it mean for you as we transition to renewable energy? Will electricity get cheaper?
The short answer is yes, over time. There are also steps you can take right now to decrease the amount you are paying for power.
As a customer, you have rights and responsibilities determined by law to help protect you in your dealings with energy retailers and distributors.
Choosing a Provider
Energy Made Easy is a free Australian Government energy price comparison service for households and small businesses, that can be used to find and compare electricity and gas plans.
You can choose your energy retailer and contract type and can compare the range of energy offers available using the Energy Made Easy price comparison service or by calling 1300 585 165.
https://www.energymadeeasy.gov.au/
There are many energy plans available. When you're considering which one to choose, think about price, but don’t forget things like:
- how long you have to sign up for
- fees
- discounts
- other special deals (these might be called 'incentives' or 'benefits').
There are other things that may impact your energy plan, for example, did you know that when you use energy might affect how much you pay for it?
Some plans may also depend on whether you:
- have a smart meter
- want your energy to be good for the environment (these might be called GreenPower plans)
- have a solar energy system
- live in the city or a regional area.
The less energy you use, the less you pay for
Do a home energy audit to see how you are using energy in your home and try some easy energy saving tips to cut down on your energy use. Calculate your appliance running costs to see how different appliances in your home contribute to your energy bills.
Living Areas
- In summer, keep cool by closing windows, doors, curtains and blinds.
- In summer, try to use fans instead of air conditioners, and if you use your air conditioner, set it to 26°C.
- In winter, reduce draughts by closing windows, doors and curtains.
- Set central heating to 18°C.
- Put in LED lights and turn them off when not needed.
- Switch off appliances at the wall – some appliances keep using energy if you don’t do this.
Kitchen
- Make sure there is plenty of space around your fridge.
- Check that the fridge seals keep the doors firmly closed.
- Make sure the fridge isn’t too full.
- Cover pots and pans to reduce cooking time.
- Wait until the dishwasher is full, then put it on.
Bathroom & Laundry
- Use cold water for washing.
- If you prefer to use hot water, set it to 60°C.
- Wait until the washing machine is full, then put it on.
- Use a clothes line instead of the dryer.
- Put in low-flow shower heads – ask at your hardware store.
- Have shorter showers that are no more than four minutes.
Useful sites to help you understand your energy use:
- Home Energy Audit: https://www.sa.gov.au/topics/energy-and-environment/using-saving-energy/home-energy-audits/do-a-home-energy-audit
- https://www.energy.gov.au/households/energy-basics-householders
- https://connected.org.au/category/reading-bills/
Help paying energy bills
You may also be able to access either temporary or ongoing financial help with your energy bills.
https://www.sa.gov.au/topics/energy-and-environment/energy-bills/financial-assistance
If you are overwhelmed and need to discuss your options, the Affordable SA helpline can help point you in the right direction:
- Call the Affordable SA Helpline on 1800 025 539
Utilities Program Listings
There are a number of 'Utilities' programs listed on our site that may be of interest also:
https://affordablesa.com.au/programs/utilities