QUEENSLAND ENERGY COMPARISON

Queensland energy usage is on the rise due to a growing coal and LNG industry.

Electricity

There are three distributors: ENERGEX, Ergon Energy, and Essential Energy. Your location determines your distributor. Even so, there are a range of retailers you can choose from. Some of the big names include Origin, Red, Simply Energy and a whole range of others.

Energy distributors and suppliers in Queensland are required to join the Energy + Water Ombudsman Queensland Scheme (EWOQ). This means households are protected and legislation is followed.

Your location determines your distributor. Consumers are free to compare retailer prices. However, for the majority of Queensland, the government has the final say on how low these prices may go.

For South East Queensland, in 2016, the government brought in deregulation legislation. This leads to more competition in the market, which should drive prices down further.

In order to take advantage, first, check your current tariff rate. Your electricity tariff is the pricing structure that determines how much you are charged for energy.

For example this includes:

• The time of use (peak off peak)
• A controlled load with a lower rate (such as your hot water system)
• Whether you have a renewable energy feed
• Whether your supplier has certain ‘blocks’ that cost more or less

Pensioners and concession cardholders may be eligible for an Electricity Rebate. Customers with a qualifying medical condition who need heating or cooling may be eligible for a Medical Cooling and Heating Electricity Concession Scheme.

Low-income households who are dealing with a temporary financial emergency may be eligible for the Home Energy Emergency Assistance Scheme.

Want to choose a new retailer? Click here to compare.

Gas

Similar to electricity, four companies distribute gas in NSW So These are APT Allgas, Australian Gas Networks Limited, Maranoa Regional Council, and Western Downs Regional Council. They are all part of the EWOQ.

Your distributor is determined by where you live, but you can choose a range of retailers. Those who are members of the EWOQ include: AGL, Maranoa Regional Council, Origin Energy and Western Downs Regional Council.

You may be able to find a cheaper tariff by comparing your gas plan.

Low-income households who are dealing with a temporary financial emergency may be eligible for the Home Energy Emergency Assistance Scheme. Pensioners and concession card holders may be eligible for a Reticulated Natural Gas Rebate.

You can choose a gas retailer for a lower rate – click here to compare.