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Energy FAQs

Get answers now! Find quick solutions to your energy-related questions. Explore our Energy FAQs for insights and expert advice.

EnergyFAQs101

Published on 30/11/2023

By Ayushi Goel

Energy Comparison

Electricity surrounds us where ever we go. We used it on a daily basis and most of us cannot live without it but still, some electricity jargon and concepts are quite confusing.

To help you understand better “About Energy” Econnex compiled some frequently asked questions by consumers like you. 

About Electricity 

  • What is Renewable Energy?

Renewable energy is energy generated from renewable sources. It is continuously replenished, unlike coal and oil which do not regenerate. It comes from sources that are essentially inexhaustible. Sunlight, wind, rain, tides, waves, and geothermal heat are examples of renewable sources. These are sources which are the result of a continuous phenomenon.

  • How did Electricity deliver to consumers?

Generation: Electricity is generated in power plants by converting natural resources such as coal, oil, water, sun, wind, and natural gas to electricity. Heated and high-pressure water or steam activates a turbine that is attached to a generator. The turning turbine rotates a large magnet inside loops of wire. As the magnet spins inside these coils of wire, electricity is generated.

Transmission: The electricity generated from power plants transfers to transmission substations and is transmitted via transmission lines. The electricity’s voltage increases in this phase.

Distribution: From the transmission substation, it goes to the distribution station (your distributor). The voltage here decreases so the power can be ready to distribute to end consumers. Energy retailers, who are responsible for billing, buy electricity from the distributor.

Who is the Australian Energy Regulator(AER)?

  • They promote efficient investment in, operation, and use of energy services for the long-term interest of energy consumers.
  • They set the energy network prices and ensure that the consumers are not paying more than necessary.
  • They ensure the reliable delivery of electricity and gas services.
  • They monitor and enforce the compliance of market participants.

About Meter

  • What are the different meter types?

Accumulation Meters are also called single-rate or flat meters. The consumers are charged the same rate for electricity regardless of the time.

Interval Meters record electricity usage every 30 minutes. Your energy retailer can charge you different rates depending on the time of the day you consume power.

Smart Meters or digital meters are the latest in energy metering technology. It works like Interval Meter, the difference is it can be remotely read without the need for a field technician.

  •  When was my meter read?

The date your meter was read for this billing period is not included in your electricity bill. However, it tells you the first and last day of your billing period (which is usually 30 to 90 days). Check the details section, the last day of the billing period is when your meter was read.

  •  What do I do if I have a problem with my meter?

If you have a faulty meter you should contact your energy retailer for assistance as they are responsible for the meter at your property. However, you should contact your distributor if your electricity or gas stops working, during a power outage or electricity emergency.

Other FAQs

  • What is a feed-in tariff?

Feed-in-tariff is a price that you will get paid for the electricity you generated from sources such as solar power. All energy retailers are required to pay feed-in-tariff however, it depends on your state if they going to be paid you off for excess electricity exported to the grid or gross.

  • Why is my bill delayed?

There are several reasons why your bill was delayed. The common reasons are like, an issue with your energy retailer’s billing system or the information on your account is either incorrect or incomplete. E.g, when the meter reads, don’t correctly match your meter type, bill delays may occur.

  • How can I switch providers and compare rates?

You can search for all the available retailers in your area one by one and do the hassle of comparing rates. But, as we live in the modern days, we want to make it easier for consumers like you. You can switch and compare energy rates through Econnex. Just enter your postcode and details and in just one click you can compare rates and switch to the best energy plans that suit you.

Looking for better energy plans? Check Econnex.

Energy Comparison
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