Cost of Electricity in Queensland: A Complete Guide
Queensland, known for its beautiful beaches and sunny weather, also has a unique electricity market influenced by its geographic size and energy infrastructure. Whether you’re a homeowner, renter, or business owner, understanding the electricity cost QLD is essential for managing household expenses and finding opportunities to reduce your energy bills.
In this guide, we dive into the current cost of electricity in Queensland, compare popular providers, explore key factors that affect pricing, and help you determine the best electricity tariff for your needs.
What Is the Average Cost of Electricity in Queensland?
Generally, the average cost of electricity for residential customers in Queensland is approximately 26 to 33 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh) with a daily supply charge of around 82 to 126 cents, which can vary significantly based on several factors, including:
Your exact location (regional vs. metropolitan areas).
The energy retailer and specific plan you choose.
Your home size and your household’s energy consumption patterns.
Whether you use solar generators or access feed-in tariffs.
Cost of Electricity in Queensland (Comparison Chart)
To help you have a better understanding, here’s a comparison of electricity plans from popular providers in Queensland for your check:
Energy Retailer & Plan | Difference from Reference Price | Annual Estimated Cost (incl. GST) | Usage Rate (c/kWh) | Daily Supply Charge (c/day) |
GloBird Energy – GLOSAVE | 27% less | $1,511 | 24.754 – 29.37 | 89.628 – 92.4 |
OVO Energy – One Plan | 25% less | $1,548 | 26.037 | 96.8 |
Ampol Energy – Powering On | 25% less | $1,550 | 26.18 | 94.49 |
Sumo – SumoSWITCH | 23% less | $1,599 | 27.39 | 92.84 |
Momentum Energy – Warm Welcome | 21% less | $1,625 | 26.95 | 119.24 |
Alinta Energy – HomeSaver Essential | 21% less | $1,630 | 27.115 | 104.72 |
Powershop – Switch Saver | 21% less | $1,631 | 28.98 | 122.71 |
Kogan Energy – Free FIRST | 20.7% less | $1,639 | 26.66 | 112.92 |
As we can see, GloBird Energy’s GLOSAVE plan offers the biggest savings at 27% below the reference price, with an estimated annual cost of $1,511. OVO Energy and Ampol Energy follow closely with 25% savings and costs around $1,550.
Factors Influencing Electricity Costs in Queensland
So why is there such a difference in the electricity plan from energy retailers? Several factors play a role in determining the cost of electricity across Queensland. Let’s learn the details below to choose the most cost-effective plan and manage your household energy expenses.
Government Electricity Bill Cap
The Queensland Government introduced an electricity bill cap to protect consumers from excessive price increases. This cap limits the maximum price energy retailers can charge for electricity, providing some stability in a volatile market.
However, while this protects against extreme price spikes, it doesn’t guarantee you’re on the cheapest plan. Consumers should still compare offers regularly to find the best deals.
Tariff Types
Your chosen tariff has a significant impact on your electricity costs. Queensland offers several tariff options to suit different consumption patterns:
Flat Rate Tariffs: This is the most common tariff, charging a consistent rate per kilowatt-hour regardless of when electricity is used. It’s ideal for households that use energy steadily throughout the day and want predictable billing.
Time-of-Use Tariffs: With this option, electricity costs vary depending on when you use it. Rates are higher during peak times (typically evenings) and lower during off-peak hours (overnight and early morning). This tariff suits households that can shift major energy use to cheaper times.
Demand Tariffs: These tariffs are based on your highest period of electricity demand, typically measured over 30-minute intervals. They encourage consumers to spread out their energy use and avoid high-demand peaks. Businesses and high-usage households can benefit if they manage consumption carefully.
Controlled Load (Interruptible Supply) Tariffs: Designed for specific high-energy appliances like hot water systems and pool pumps, these tariffs offer lower rates because the supply can be interrupted during peak demand periods. They’re ideal for non-essential appliances that can operate during off-peak hours.
Market Competition and Retailer Discounts
Queensland’s deregulated energy market encourages competition among retailers. Many providers offer attractive discounts, sign-up bonuses, and flexible billing options to win over new customers.
However, these discounts often expire after a set period, so it’s important to review your plan annually and switch providers if necessary. Sticking with an outdated plan could mean you’re missing out on substantial savings.
Renewable Energy and Solar Feed-In Tariffs
Queensland's abundant sunshine makes solar energy not only a sustainable but also a cost-effective solution for households looking to lower energy bills.
To harness the full potential of solar energy, consider investing in high-efficiency solar panels and a large-capacity portable power station. For example, the EcoFlow DELTA Pro 3 Portable Power Station offers a 4,096Wh capacity and 4,000W max continuous output—ample power to run electric heaters, refrigerators, washing machines, coffee makers, and a wide range of other appliances. With seamless control via the EcoFlow app, you can easily track energy usage in real time, ensuring efficient management of your power consumption. And, the savings are impressive—up to 22% reduction in electricity costs with just one unit and 44% with another extra battery.
Moreover, you can enjoy the benefits of the Solar Feed-In Tariffs scheme by using EcoFlow solar panels and portable power stations to generate renewable solar energy and feed it back to the grid. Keep in mind that feed-in tariff rates differ among providers, so it’s worth comparing offers to maximize the return on your solar investment. Combining solar energy production with an appropriate tariff can drastically reduce your annual electricity costs.
EcoFlow DELTA Pro 3 Portable Power Station
Which Queensland Electricity Tariff is Right for Me?
Choosing the right electricity tariff in Queensland depends on when and how you use energy. Below, we break down the main tariff options to help you find the best fit for your household.
Flat Rate Tariff – Best for Predictable Usage
The Flat Rate Tariff is ideal for households that use energy consistently throughout the day. With a single fixed rate, it’s easy to understand and budget for your electricity costs.
This tariff works best for families who are home during peak periods or who don’t want to worry about when they use appliances. While not always the cheapest option, it offers predictable billing and simplicity.
Time-of-Use Tariff – Great for Households with Flexible Schedules
If your household can shift energy use to off-peak hours, a Time-of-Use Tariff may offer considerable savings. Electricity is cheaper during off-peak periods, typically overnight and early morning, and more expensive during evening peak times.
This option suits people who are away during the day or who can schedule appliances like dishwashers and washing machines to run at night. Smart appliance timers can help you take full advantage of off-peak rates.
Controlled Load Tariffs – Ideal for High-Usage Appliances
Controlled Load Tariffs provide discounted rates for specific appliances like electric hot water systems, pool pumps, and underfloor heating.
These appliances are connected to a separate circuit and operate during designated off-peak times. This is a smart choice if you want to keep energy costs low for appliances that don’t need constant power throughout the day.
Demand Tariffs – Suitable for Large Households and Businesses
Demand Tariffs calculate charges based on your highest periods of electricity usage. They reward customers who spread out their energy consumption and avoid using multiple high-energy appliances at the same time.
This tariff is most beneficial for larger households and small businesses that can manage and monitor their energy demand carefully to avoid peak charges.
Conclusion
The cost of electricity in Queensland depends on factors like your provider, tariff type, and usage habits. By understanding available tariff options and comparing plans, you can make informed decisions to lower your bills. Additionally, investing in a solar generator can further reduce your energy costs by utilizing renewable energy, offering long-term savings and greater energy independence. With the right choices, you can effectively manage and reduce your electricity expenses.
FAQs
Why is power so expensive in QLD?
Electricity prices in Queensland are influenced by high network infrastructure costs, increasing wholesale energy prices, and supply-demand fluctuations. Additionally, maintaining a power supply across vast regional areas increases distribution expenses.
Who is the cheapest electricity provider in QLD?
Currently, GloBird Energy offers one of the most affordable electricity plans in Queensland with its GLOSAVE plan. Households can save up to 27% compared to the reference price, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious consumers looking to lower their annual electricity bills significantly.
How much is the Queensland government’s cost of living rebate for electricity?
Queensland households will receive a generous $1,000 Cost of Living Rebate on their electricity bills for the 2024–25 financial year. This initiative aims to help families manage rising living expenses and reduce the financial pressure caused by increasing energy costs across the state.