Australian Energy Savings Report
2025
Exclusive analysis of 47,000+ Australian electricity bills reveals shocking savings patterns. Discover which states save the most and why 73% of households are still overpaying.
Executive Summary
Our comprehensive analysis of Australian electricity bills in 2025 reveals that despite increased competition and consumer awareness, nearly three-quarters of Australian households are still overpaying for electricity. The data shows clear regional patterns, with surprising results about which states offer the best savings opportunities.
Key Findings
1. Standing Offers Still Dominate
Despite years of warnings, 42% of households are still on expensive standing offers. These customers pay an average of $487 more per year than those on market contracts.
2. Sydney vs Melbourne: The Surprising Truth
While Sydney has higher absolute electricity rates, Melbourne households actually have larger savings opportunities due to less price competition and more households on unsuitable plans.
Average savings: $342/year
Average savings: $398/year
3. Queensland Leads in Smart Choices
Queensland households are making the smartest electricity choices, with only 29% overpaying compared to the national average of 73%. This correlates with higher solar panel adoption and better understanding of time-of-use rates.
4. Time-of-Use Confusion Costs Millions
67% of households on time-of-use rates would save money by switching to single-rate plans, but most don't know this. The average household loses $156/year on unsuitable tariff structures.
State by State Breakdown
New South Wales
NSW shows strong competition in urban areas, but regional households often lack choice. Compare NSW electricity bills
Victoria
Victoria has the highest percentage of overpaying households, largely due to complex tariff structures. Compare VIC electricity bills
Queensland
Queensland leads in smart electricity choices, with high solar adoption driving awareness. Compare QLD electricity bills
South Australia
SA has the highest electricity rates but also the biggest savings opportunities for those willing to switch.
Provider Performance Analysis
Based on actual customer bills, here's how the major providers stack up:
Best Value Providers
- Red Energy - Consistently competitive rates across all states
- Alinta Energy - Strong performance in SA and WA
- Simply Energy - Good value for budget-conscious customers
Most Expensive Providers
- Standing Offers - Any provider's standing offer is typically most expensive
- Legacy Plans - Old plans from major retailers often lack competitive rates
- Door-to-Door Sales - Plans sold door-to-door often have poor value
Key Insight: Provider matters less than plan type. A good market offer from any provider typically beats a standing offer from any other provider.
Our Recommendations for 2025
Check Your Bill Type
If you're on a standing offer or haven't switched in 2+ years, you're likely overpaying. Upload your bill to see exactly how much you could save.
Review Time-of-Use Suitability
67% of households on time-of-use rates would save money on single-rate plans. Check if your usage pattern matches your tariff structure.
Annual Review
Set a yearly reminder to compare your electricity plan. Market rates change, and new competitive offers appear regularly.
Consider Solar + Battery
Queensland's success shows that energy storage and solar generation create better awareness of electricity costs and usage patterns.
Methodology
This report analyzes 47,382 Australian electricity bills uploaded to Bill Zap between July 2024 and January 2025. Personal information was removed, and only anonymous usage data, rates, and geographic information were used.
Find Out Where You Stand
Don't be part of the 73% who are overpaying. Upload your electricity bill now and see exactly how your rates compare to the market and your neighbors.