Each year, IPART monitors the performance and competitiveness of the retail electricity and gas markets in NSW for small customers.
What we found
Households on flat-rate electricity offers more than 2 years old paid, on average, $297 more than households on offers less than a year old. Small businesses on older flat-rate offers paid, on average, $700 more.
In 2024‑25, a household with a typical load profile may have paid up to $300 more on a demand tariff plan, compared to a time-of-use or flat-rate plan. A household on a demand tariff with typical load profile with solar may have paid up to $200 more.
If you are on a demand tariff plan, you can switch to a time-of-use plan, which may cost less.
NSW Virtual Power Plant customers had lower median bills than other households, including those with solar and a battery. The median quarterly bill can be 34% to 72% lower than that for customers with solar and a battery.
More households and businesses are shifting away from gas. Gas prices eased for most customers, but the wide range of prices offered by retailers meant that many customers could be better off switching plan.
Affordability remained a concern, with many eligible customers not claiming NSW Government rebates to reduce their bills.
What can you do to reduce your energy bills?
You can shop around to find a better energy deal on the Australian Government’s Energy Made Easy website.
The NSW Government offers a range of assistance and rebates to households. You can visit the NSW Government’s Savings Finder website or book an appointment with a specialist to see if you are eligible for assistance or rebates.