Is EnergyAustralia Cheaper Than Origin? A No-Nonsense Breakdown of Power Prices

 If you’ve ever stared at your energy bill and wondered whether you’re paying too much, you’re in good company. With power prices rising across Australia, comparing retailers like EnergyAustralia and Origin has become more than just a casual question—it could mean real money in your back pocket.

So, is EnergyAustralia cheaper than Origin in 2025? The short answer: it depends on where you live, how much energy you use, and the plan you’re on. But let’s dig deeper than just numbers.


What’s the average price difference between EnergyAustralia and Origin in 2025?

According to recent data from Energy Made Easy and Victorian Energy Compare, the price difference between EnergyAustralia and Origin isn’t always significant—sometimes just a few cents per kilowatt-hour. But over a year, even a small gap can add up.

For example:

  • In Sydney, Origin’s basic residential plan often edges out EnergyAustralia by around 3 to 5 percent, especially on usage charges.

  • In Victoria, EnergyAustralia sometimes wins the price war thanks to better pay-on-time discounts or lower daily supply charges.

  • In South Australia and Queensland, the two tend to trade places depending on promotional offers and solar feed-in tariffs.

So, while Origin might seem cheaper on paper, the cheapest plan depends heavily on your postcode, your usage habits, and whether you’re switching or staying.


Do EnergyAustralia or Origin have better solar feed-in tariffs?

This is where the game really shifts—especially if you’ve got panels on your roof.

  • EnergyAustralia: Offers competitive feed-in rates in NSW and SA but may apply lower rates once you exceed a certain export cap.

  • Origin: Known for occasional bonus feed-in offers, particularly in Queensland and Victoria, if you also buy a solar system through them.

The catch? These rates often come with bundled conditions—like signing a 12-month contract or forgoing flexible usage rates.

Anyone who’s tried navigating solar plan fine print knows the struggle. It’s not always about who pays more per kWh—it’s about what you’re locked into in return.


Which is better for small business customers?

If you run a café, hair salon, or retail shop, your usage profile will look different from a household. Business plans usually come with demand charges, flexible billing options, and sometimes volume discounts.

  • EnergyAustralia offers more custom business plans through direct contact, often paired with multi-site discounts.

  • Origin tends to promote standardised business plans with clear pricing and digital sign-up.

But honestly, many savvy business owners don’t stick with either long-term. Instead, they work with an energy broker who can access commercial rates not listed online. Brokers often negotiate directly with the retailer or offer energy tenders across multiple providers, giving businesses access to deeper discounts.


Are the discounts and perks really worth it?

Both EnergyAustralia and Origin love to shout about their sign-up discounts, loyalty credits, and referral perks. But these often distract from the real cost—your usage and supply charges.

Here’s what to keep in mind:

  • Pay-on-time discounts can be voided after one missed bill.

  • Usage credits may only apply to the first few months.

  • Loyalty bonuses can be offset by higher base rates.

You’re better off looking at the comparison rate, which includes all charges and fees, rather than the headline discount.


What do real customers say about Origin and EnergyAustralia?

According to recent Canstar Blue reviews and ProductReview scores:

  • EnergyAustralia is praised for decent customer service and steady pricing but cops flak for occasional billing delays.

  • Origin scores slightly higher for value and has a popular mobile app, but some users report difficulty getting accurate usage breakdowns.

If you’ve ever tried switching plans over the phone or disputing an estimated bill, you know customer support can make or break your experience. In that respect, neither is flawless—but both are improving their digital platforms to keep up with newer players.


What if I want to switch energy providers?

Switching between Origin and EnergyAustralia—or leaving both—can be done online in minutes. But you’ll want to check:

  • Are you still in a contract period?

  • Will you lose a solar bonus or loyalty credit?

  • Does your current plan include a disconnection or exit fee?

Most standard residential plans in 2025 are contract-free, with no penalties. But some older plans or business contracts may include exit clauses.

If in doubt, an energy broker can do the legwork for you—especially if you're juggling a solar plan, business meter, or multiple sites.


Which one is better overall—Origin or EnergyAustralia?

There’s no one-size-fits-all winner. But if we’re playing favourites based on broad patterns:

  • Origin usually offers slightly lower rates in metro NSW and QLD, better app features, and stronger bundle deals if you also use gas.

  • EnergyAustralia is often more competitive in VIC and SA, with good solar compatibility and flexible plans for renters.

However, energy markets change fast. A plan that’s great today might be average next quarter. That’s why energy comparison tools and regular reviews matter—set a calendar reminder every 6 or 12 months.


FAQs

Is Origin Energy Australian-owned?
Yes, Origin is based in Sydney and publicly listed on the ASX.

Is EnergyAustralia still owned by the Chinese government?
EnergyAustralia is owned by CLP Group, a Hong Kong-based energy company. It operates independently in Australia but is foreign-owned.

Do either Origin or EnergyAustralia offer carbon offset options?
Both do. Origin offers its GreenPower add-ons, while EnergyAustralia has Go Neutral options for carbon offsetting.


Choosing between EnergyAustralia and Origin is a bit like comparing two utes—similar specs, but different features and pricing depending on what you're hauling. Some people prefer the reliable pricing of Origin; others go for EnergyAustralia's solar-friendly structure. And more Aussies are ditching both in favour of smaller, more agile providers—or going through an energy broker who can do the heavy lifting.

Either way, one thing’s clear: the days of “set and forget” power plans are over. And frankly, that’s probably a good thing.

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