Who is the best energy company to go with?

 When you’re staring at rising power bills, flooded with confusing options, and being harassed by door-to-door salespeople promising the “cheapest rate” — one question rings louder than the rest: who is actually the best energy company to go with in Australia?

Here’s the truth: the “best” energy provider isn’t a one-size-fits-all label. It hinges on your postcode, usage patterns, and whether you value rock-bottom prices, customer service, green energy—or just simplicity. But don’t stress. We’ve broken it all down.

So, Who Is the Best Energy Provider Right Now?

Short answer: There isn’t a universal winner.

Different providers dominate in different states and scenarios. But based on a blend of price, customer satisfaction, innovation, and trustworthiness, here are some standouts:

Energy ProviderBest ForKey Strengths
Red EnergyCustomer service loversOwned by Snowy Hydro, Aussie-based support, high satisfaction
ReAmped EnergyPrice-sensitive usersNo-frills, online-only, consistently cheap rates
AGLRewards + BundlesBig player with broadband & solar packages
PowershopGreen energy + activism-friendly100% carbon neutral, strong ethical stance
EnergyAustraliaFlexible plans + big name trustMultiple options, decent rates, long-time market presence
OVO EnergyTech-forward energy usersUK import, app-first experience, green plans

Each one brings something different to the table. That’s where a bit of behavioural strategy helps…

What Should You Really Consider When Choosing?

Too many Australians default to “the big guys” (AGL, Origin, EnergyAustralia) without checking if they’re actually competitive.

Here’s how to make a smarter move—based on how we actually make decisions, not how we should.

1. Loss Aversion: Don't Let Discounts Fool You

A $75 sign-up bonus sounds great—until you realise you’re paying $20/month more than you could be elsewhere. That’s $240/year... just to feel like you got a deal.

Instead, focus on:

  • Usage rates (c/kWh) and daily supply charges

  • Whether discounts are conditional (e.g. pay on time)

  • Lock-in contracts or exit fees

2. Framing Effect: Understand How “Value” is Packaged

Some companies frame their plans with words like “max saver” or “flexi-freedom” — but the real value is in the fine print. Always use a comparison tool (more on that below) and switch your frame from what sounds good to what works for you.

3. Commitment Bias: Just Because You’ve Been with Origin for 8 Years…

...doesn’t mean you should keep paying more. The market changes fast. Being “loyal” to your energy provider is like being loyal to a petrol station that charges 40c more per litre.

What’s the Cheapest Energy Provider in Each State?

Pricing is hyper-local. But based on 2025 comparison data and reviews, here are some regional winners:

State/TerritoryTop Cheap Providers (as of 2025)
NSWReAmped Energy, OVO, AGL (selected plans)
VICPowershop, Momentum Energy, Tango
QLDReAmped, AGL, Energy Locals
SALumo Energy, EnergyAustralia
WASynergy (only real choice unless on solar)
TASAurora Energy (state-owned monopoly)

Prices can vary significantly by suburb. In some parts of Brisbane, you could pay 25% less just by switching to an online-only provider.

What About Green Energy – Who’s the Most Ethical?

If you're choosing with your values in mind (Cialdini’s “Liking” and “Unity” principles in action), then Powershop is a standout.

Backed by Meridian Energy (NZ), it’s fully carbon neutral and actively supports climate activism. Others like Diamond Energy and Momentum also have excellent renewable credentials.

Look for:

  • GreenPower options (accredited)

  • Carbon-neutral certification

  • Ownership (some “green” brands are owned by fossil-heavy giants)

What If I Just Want the Easiest Experience?

Some people want the cheapest. Others want the greenest. But most Aussies just want to set and forget.

Here’s what to prioritise:

  • Great app or online account access

  • Fast customer service response

  • Clear bills and no nasty surprises

In this category, Red Energy wins points for its Aussie-based service team and consistently high reviews. OVO Energy also shines for tech-friendly customers who want app-based control.

Real World Example: Mark From Geelong

Mark runs a small mechanics shop in Geelong. For years, he was paying nearly $1,300 more per year than he needed to — just because his provider’s “business” plan locked him into peak-hour tariffs he didn’t understand.

After using a free business energy bill comparison , he switched to a plan tailored for his business hours. No exit fees, no call centre games.

Now, he pays less and has clearer oversight of his energy use. And he reckons the whole thing took 12 minutes.

That’s the power of defaulting to smarter behaviour—not default providers.

How Do You Actually Compare the Best Energy Deals?

Use Government-Backed Tools

These sites are unbiased, government-run, and show all available plans (not just those from companies paying to be featured).

Look for Stealth Charges

  • Connection/disconnection fees

  • Meter read or exit fees

  • Solar feed-in rates (if applicable)

Most of these don’t show up on your first bill, but they add up. Always read the Energy Fact Sheet linked in any plan.

Are Smaller Energy Companies Safe?

A fair concern. Smaller retailers can feel risky—but many are backed by large infrastructure players or operate on lean, digital-first models.

Examples:

  • ReAmped: Privately owned, low overheads

  • OVO: Big UK backing, expanding steadily

  • Momentum: Owned by Hydro Tasmania

As long as they're licensed under the Australian Energy Regulator (AER), your supply won’t be interrupted even if the company exits the market.

Final Thoughts: The Best Energy Company Is the One That Works for You

Some chase the cheapest. Others chase green. But most of us just want control, predictability, and no nasty surprises.

So yes — you could stick with your current provider out of habit. Or you could make one switch that saves hundreds per year.

And if you're a business owner or operator, a free business energy bill comparison might be the easiest win you’ll get this quarter.

FAQ

What’s the cheapest electricity provider in Australia?

There’s no single answer. ReAmped and OVO often lead on price, but it depends on your usage and location. Use government comparison tools to check.

Are smaller energy companies trustworthy?

Yes, if they’re AER-accredited. Even if they shut down, your supply continues with a backup provider. Focus on value, not just brand recognition.

How often should I switch energy providers?

Every 12–18 months is ideal. Prices and plans shift frequently, and loyalty rarely pays.

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