EnergyAustralia vs AGL: Which Is Better for You?
Choosing an energy provider is a significant decision for any Australian household, directly influencing your budget and overall energy management. In a competitive market, EnergyAustralia vs AGL consistently stand out as two of the largest and most well-known names. This article will delve into the the nuances of AGL vs EnergyAustralia and help you make an informed decision that aligns with your household's priorities.
AGL vs EnergyAustralia: Service Overviews and Availability
When evaluating EnergyAustralia vs AGL, a primary concern for many consumers is understanding their rates and available plans. Both providers offer diverse options, but a closer look reveals key differences in pricing structures and incentives.
Electricity Plans and Pricing
AGL and EnergyAustralia are often closely matched on electricity prices. AGL typically offers three standard plans: Flexible Saver, Basics, and Value Saver, alongside a Solar Saver plan. EnergyAustralia also presents several options, including the Basic Home, Flexi Plan, Balance Plan, and Solar Max plans.
A direct comparison of their cheapest electricity plans shows varying results by state:
In New South Wales, AGL's electricity plans generally appear to be cheaper, with AGL's Value Saver plan potentially offering a 5% discount compared to EnergyAustralia's Flexi Plan.
For Victoria, the pricing between AGL and EnergyAustralia can be quite competitive, with sources indicating similar prices or EnergyAustralia being slightly cheaper. For instance, EnergyAustralia's Flexi Plan might offer a 20% discount versus AGL's Value Saver at 9%.
In Queensland, AGL often provides cheaper electricity compared to EnergyAustralia.
South Australia also typically sees AGL offering slightly cheaper electricity plans.
In the ACT, AGL does not offer electricity services, making EnergyAustralia the primary option between the two.
It's crucial to remember that these comparisons are based on average household rates and typical usage for specific postcodes. When assessing AGL vs EnergyAustralia rates, personalized comparison is key! To get an accurate estimate for your address and consumption patterns, it's always recommended to check with AGL or EnergyAustralia directly.
Gas Plans and Pricing
Similar to electricity, the pricing for gas plans between AGL and EnergyAustralia can differ by state. Overall, their cheapest gas plans are closely matched.
In New South Wales, AGL generally offers cheaper gas rates.
For Victoria, EnergyAustralia's gas plans tend to be more competitive.
In Queensland, EnergyAustralia does not offer gas services, leaving AGL as an option.
South Australia typically finds AGL providing cheaper gas plans.
In the ACT, AGL does not offer gas, making EnergyAustralia the available choice.
For Western Australia, AGL offers gas plans, while EnergyAustralia does not.
Again, these are general trends, and actual costs can vary based on individual usage and specific plan details.
Beyond Rates: Features, Perks, and Customer Experience with AGL or EnergyAustralia
While pricing is a significant factor, the overall value of an energy provider extends to additional features, customer service, and commitment to sustainability. Here's a look at how EnergyAustralia vs AGL compare in these crucial areas.
Extra Perks and Bundling Offers
AGL tends to have an edge in the additional perks department. They offer bundling discounts if you wish to combine mobile and internet services with your energy plan. AGL also features a rewards store providing access to retail discounts, and some electricity plans even include a Netflix (ad-tier) subscription. Furthermore, AGL runs a "Peak Energy Rewards program" where customers can earn bill credit by shifting their home energy use away from peak periods.
EnergyAustralia offers its "PowerResponse Program," which rewards customers with bill credits for reducing electricity usage during peak demand events. While valuable, EnergyAustralia is noted as having fewer additional perks compared to AGL.
Contract Terms and Flexibility
Both providers offer a variety of contract structures. Many plans come with "benefit periods," where discounts or other advantages are applied for a set duration.
Variety of Contract Structures: Both AGL and EnergyAustralia provide a diverse range of contract structures for their energy plans.
Benefit Periods:
Many plans include "benefit periods" during which specific advantages, such as discounts, movie tickets, or magazine subscriptions, are applied for a set duration.
When a benefit period concludes, the electricity contract often continues at the same price, but the specific benefit ceases.
Energy retailers, including AGL and EnergyAustralia, are legally required to notify customers at least 20 business days, but no more than 40 business days, before a benefit period ends or changes. This notification allows customers time to explore other options.
Some retailers may automatically extend existing benefits, meaning they don't have to notify you if the same benefit is simply rolled over. However, if a new or different benefit is offered, notification is required.
Alternatively, some plans may transition to higher standing offer rates after the benefit period.
Fixed Contract Terms:
Some energy plans come with specific contract terms, typically lasting 1, 2, or 3 years. The contract concludes when this term is over.
During these fixed-term contracts, prices can change, although some energy providers may offer plans with prices that remain fixed for the duration of the term.
Exit Fees: If you choose to terminate a fixed-term contract early with either AGL or EnergyAustralia, exit fees may apply. For example, EnergyAustralia had an exit fee of $22 per account if a customer left during the benefit period as of July 2022.
Flexible Plans (No Contract Term or Benefit Period):
Both AGL and EnergyAustralia also offer electricity plans without a fixed contract term or a specific benefit period, providing greater flexibility.
In these flexible plans, prices are generally not fixed and can change at any time. If prices do change, the retailer is obligated to inform the customer.
Customers on such plans are advised to regularly compare energy plans to ensure they are consistently on the best possible deal.
Customer Service Performance
Customer service can significantly impact satisfaction, especially during issues or inquiries. According to the Australian Energy Regulator (AER) market report, AGL generally provides faster phone support.
AGL's average call wait time is approximately 34 seconds, with 80% of calls answered within 30 seconds. AGL was also recognized as a "loved brand" in Finder's 2024 Customer Satisfaction Awards for electricity.
EnergyAustralia's average call wait time is longer, around 101 seconds, with 66% of calls answered within 30 seconds.
However, when considering the total volume of complaints, EnergyAustralia receives fewer complaints relative to its customer base (2% of total customers, 17,806 complaints) compared to AGL (3% of total customers, 41,703 complaints). This suggests that while AGL may be quicker to respond, EnergyAustralia's customers might experience fewer reported service issues overall.
Renewables and Green Energy Options
For environmentally conscious consumers, the availability of green energy options is a key differentiator. Both AGL or EnergyAustralia offer pathways to support renewable energy. Both providers allow customers to add GreenPower to their electricity plans, with options typically available at 10%, 20%, or 100% of household consumption sourced from renewable energy. AGL emphasizes its strong focus on renewable energy and offers more variety in solar feed-in tariffs, as well as providing options for purchasing solar panels directly. EnergyAustralia also provides green energy plans and solar solutions, supporting customers in making sustainable choices.
However, when assessed by external environmental ratings, both companies rank relatively low. The Greenpeace Green Electricity Guide rated EnergyAustralia at 1.35/10 and AGL at 1.2/10 in 2025. This indicates that while both offer GreenPower add-ons, their broader commitments or energy generation portfolios may be perceived differently from a pure green energy perspective.
Maximizing Your Savings and Energy Independence: Advanced Energy Saving Tips
Beyond simply choosing the right energy provider, whether it's AGL or EnergyAustralia, actively managing your energy consumption is crucial for significantly reducing your bills and enhancing energy independence. Implementing effective energy saving tips can lead to substantial long-term savings and a more sustainable lifestyle for any Australian household.
1. Understand and Assess Your Energy Bill
Begin by thoroughly reviewing all components and usage patterns on your energy bill to pinpoint exactly where and how energy is consumed in your home.
Consider a home energy assessment with a Scorecard assessor, a program available across Australia, which rates your home's energy use and guides you on improvements, similar to appliance star ratings.
2. Switch Off Appliances When Not in Use and Use Saver Modes
Make it a habit to switch off appliances when not in use entirely, as many devices like TVs and consoles draw standby power.
When working from home, activate your computer's power-saver mode or eco-saver setting to reduce energy consumption by dimming the screen and putting the device to sleep during inactivity.
3. Use Appliances in the Kitchen Efficiently
Refrigerators: Position your fridge away from heat sources like ovens to prevent its compressor from overworking, and regularly check door seals to stop cold air from escaping.
Dishwashers: Only run your dishwasher when it's completely full and select the economy cycle. Regular cleaning of the filter also improves efficiency.
Cooking: Use microwaves or pots with lids instead of ovens for cooking and heating, as they consume less energy.
4. Optimize Heating and Cooling Systems
Heating and cooling typically account for the largest portion of energy use in Australian homes.
Set your thermostat efficiently: aim for 18-20°C in winter and 26°C or higher in summer.
In winter, use thicker bedding to stay warm without heavy reliance on overnight heating.
5. Seal Gaps and Insulate Your Home
Seal gaps and insulate your home around doors and windows using seals to prevent draughts and minimize heat loss or gain.
Ensure curtains or blinds fully cover your windows to add an extra layer of insulation.
6. Avoid the Energy Peak Time
A strategic approach to saving is to avoid the energy peak time. Energy contracts, including those from providers like AGL or EnergyAustralia, often charge higher rates during peak hours (typically 3 pm to 9 pm on weekdays) when demand is highest.
Conversely, off-peak times (usually overnight, 10 pm to 7 am) offer cheaper electricity rates.
Leverage smart plugs and home automation tools to schedule devices during off-peak hours, making peak-time savings automatic. Shifting just half of energy-hungry tasks can lead to savings of up to 20% on your monthly power bill. For precise scheduling, check your specific AGL Peak and Off-Peak Times on your bill or through your online account.
7. Compare and Switch to a Better Energy Plan
Tools like the Victorian Energy Compare tool offer a free and independent way to compare offers from multiple retailers.
Regularly reviewing your plan ensures you’re always on the most cost-effective option for your usage, considering factors like EnergyAustralia vs AGL rates.
8. Use a Portable Power Station for Reliable Backup Power
For ultimate energy independence and further savings, consider investing in a portable power station. A portable power station can replace grid dependence during high-tariff periods, especially for heating costs, ensuring uninterrupted warmth and power.
The EcoFlow DELTA Pro 3 Portable Power Station is an excellent example of a plug and play solution, designed for your household backup. It boasts a 4 kWh base capacity (expandable to 12 kWh) and a powerful 4,000 W continuous AC output, capable of handling high-wattage appliances like space heaters, providing long-lasting power. Its fast charging (80% in 50 minutes), quiet operation (as low as 30 dB), and IP65-rated battery pack make it a durable and safe to use solution, especially for Australian conditions.
EcoFlow DELTA Pro 3 Portable Power Station
Conclusion
The decision between AGL or EnergyAustralia ultimately hinges on your specific energy needs, budget, and priorities. Both are major providers offering comprehensive services across Australia, yet each has distinct strengths. AGL often presents cheaper rates and better solar FiTs. EnergyAustralia offers reliability and straightforward plans. Evaluate your usage, compare AGL vs EnergyAustralia rates for your postcode, and consider what matters most: green energy, cost savings, or customer support. Also bear in mind to build home battery backup system in case of emergency energy use.Your choice will manage your budget and contribute to a sustainable energy future.
FAQs
Which provider has better customer service?
AGL generally offers faster customer service, with an average call wait time of about 34 seconds and 80% of calls answered within 30 seconds. While EnergyAustralia's average wait time is longer at 101 seconds, they report a lower percentage of customer complaints relative to their total customer base (2% vs AGL's 3%).
Do off-peak times vary between EnergyAustralia and AGL?
Yes, AGL Peak and Off-Peak Times can vary significantly by state, local energy distributor, meter type, and specific tariff plan. Generally, AGL defines peak as 3 pm-9 pm on weekdays and off-peak as 10 pm-7 am daily. EnergyAustralia also operates with peak and off-peak rates, so customers should check their personal plan details or recent bills for their exact schedule.
Is AGL cheaper than Origin?
The cost difference between AGL and Origin Energy depends on state and plan. In NSW, QLD, and VIC, prices are often similar, while in SA, Origin tends to be cheaper. Recent adjustments saw AGL rise up to 13.5% in NSW, compared to Origin’s 8.3% increase for small businesses. It’s best to compare current plans directly or use comparison tools to find the most cost-effective option for your situation.