Aussies struggling with power bills: Here’s how to stay ahead this summer

With energy prices climbing and cost-of-living pressures biting hard, Australians are facing unprecedented financial strain - and it's showing up in power bills.

Recent reports reveal record levels of unpaid electricity bills, with over 2.5 million households now experiencing financial stress when it comes to keeping the lights on.

The situation has been fuelled by rising wholesale electricity costs, a winding back of subsidies, and expensive upgrades to transmission infrastructure being passed down to consumers.

As the summer months and holiday season approach - traditionally a time of higher energy use - many families are bracing themselves for even more financial pressure. But there are steps you can take right now to ease the burden.

What's happening across Australia?

Power companies nationwide are sounding the alarm as more Australians fall behind on their bills. For many, it’s a perfect storm: higher tariffs, fewer rebates, and increased usage due to warmer weather and longer days at home during the holiday break.

Even households that have tried to reduce their consumption are finding their bills creeping higher due to network charges and time-of-use pricing structures.

The transition to renewable energy, while critical for the environment, has also brought growing pains - with costly transmission projects and supply challenges affecting pricing across multiple states.

Energy retailers, regulators, and advocates alike are encouraging households to get proactive before summer hits full swing.

How to save on your energy bills in 2025

Saving money on energy doesn't always mean cutting back on comfort. Here are some practical and effective ways to take control of your power bills this season:

Compare plans - don’t just stick with the default

Loyalty rarely pays in the energy market. If you haven’t compared your energy plan in the past 12 months, chances are you're paying too much. There can be hundreds of dollars’ difference between providers - even for the same usage.

Tip: Call an expert energy comparison service like Compare Energy to get help reviewing your options. A quick call can uncover cheaper rates, better discounts, or more flexible billing options.

Use appliances wisely in summer

Air conditioners are one of the biggest energy guzzlers during the warmer months. Set your thermostat to 24–25°C - every degree cooler adds around 10% to your cooling costs.

Also:

  • Run appliances like dishwashers and washing machines during off-peak times if you're on a time-of-use tariff.
  • Switch to energy-efficient LED lighting if you haven’t already.
  • Use fans where possible - they use far less energy than AC units.

Track your usage

Many retailers offer apps or online portals that show your real-time energy use. This helps identify when you're using the most power - and allows you to adjust habits accordingly.

Keep your home cool naturally

Close blinds during the day, especially on north- and west-facing windows, to keep the heat out. Cross-ventilate in the evenings and avoid using heat-generating appliances like ovens during the hottest parts of the day.

Check for government rebates

Depending on your state or territory, you may be eligible for concessions, energy bill relief payments, or appliance upgrade programs. Even small rebates can ease pressure over the summer period.

Don't wait until your next bill hits - act now

The festive season should be a time to enjoy, not stress about overdue energy bills. If you’re feeling the pinch - or simply want to ensure you're not paying more than you need to - now is the time to act.

Call Compare Energy on 1300 790 106 to speak with an energy expert who can help you compare plans and potentially save hundreds a year on your power bills. It’s quick, free, and could make a real difference heading into the warmer months.

Every dollar counts this summer - make sure your energy plan is working as hard as you are.