How to save on power without sitting in the dark


We all want lower electricity bills, but that doesn’t mean you need to live in the dark, unplug every appliance, or sweat it out through summer.

Good news: there are smart, simple ways to cut down your electricity costs, without sacrificing comfort or lifestyle. Here's how to take control of your power bill, one step at a time.

Compare and switch energy plans

If you do one thing, do this.

Many households are still on "standing offers" or default plans, which are almost always more expensive than what’s available on the market.

Market offers often include better rates, discounts, and flexible features.

Even a small saving - say, 10% off - could mean $200–$400 off your annual bill.

Tip:

Compare regularly - plans change, and loyalty rarely gets rewarded in this market.

Want help? Call Compare Energy on 1300 790 106 and get a free comparison tailored to your home and usage.

Use off-peak electricity (if you can)

Depending on your plan and meter type, your electricity may be cheaper at certain times of day - usually overnight or on weekends.

This is called a time-of-use tariff, and it rewards you for shifting energy-hungry tasks like:

  • Laundry and dishwashing
  • Charging devices or EVs
  • Heating water or running the pool filter

Tip:

Check your bill to see if you’re on a time-of-use tariff. If you are, move what you can to off-peak hours.

Make the most of solar power

If you have solar panels - great! But are you actually getting the most from them?

To maximise your solar savings:

  • Use appliances during daylight hours (when the sun is generating your power).
  • Avoid sending too much power back to the grid (feed-in tariffs are lower than what you pay for grid power).
  • Consider a home battery if your usage peaks in the evenings - this stores your solar energy to use later.

No solar yet? Look into government rebates or community solar programs - they can reduce upfront costs.

Make small home efficiency upgrades

Not every change needs to be expensive. There are lots of low-cost or no-cost ways to improve energy efficiency.

Here are some proven ones:

ActionApprox. saving
Switch to LED lights
Up to $200/year
Seal gaps in doors/windows
10 - 20% heating/cooling loss saved
Set thermostat to 24°C (summer)/19°C (winter)
$50 - $150/year
Use ceiling fans instead of aircon
80 - 90% less energy
Use cold water for washing
$50 - $100/year

Even just being conscious of standby power (i.e., switching things off at the wall) can save you $100 - $150 a year.

Monitor your usage in real time

Out of sight, out of mind - and that’s how many of us treat electricity. But if you can see your usage in real time, you’re more likely to make changes.

Options include:

  • Smart meters (available in many areas - check with your retailer)
  • Energy monitoring apps and plugs
  • In-home displays that show you current usage and costs

Some retailers now offer apps that show daily or even hourly usage. It’s eye-opening - and motivating.

Be smart about heating and cooling

Heating and cooling are often the biggest power drains in the home - but they’re also where you can save the most.

Simple adjustments include:

  • Set aircon to 24°C in summer, heating to 19–20°C in winter - every degree higher/lower can increase your energy use by up to 10%
  • Close doors to unused rooms
  • Use curtains and blinds to block heat or retain warmth
  • Service your air conditioner - dirty filters = more energy use
  • If you’re still using portable heaters or bar heaters, it might be time to switch to a reverse-cycle air conditioner - much more efficient over time.

Know what you’re paying for

Understanding your bill is half the battle. If you’re not sure what’s driving up your costs:

  • Look at your daily usage and supply charges
  • See if there’s a time-of-use pattern
  • Check for any recent price increases from your retailer

If your rate has crept up or your usage seems normal, but the bill keeps rising - it might be time to switch providers.

Ready to take the first step?

Start with the easiest win - your energy plan.

Call Compare Energy on 1300 790 106

 ✔ Quick, free comparison

 ✔ See if you’re paying too much

 ✔ Switch with no hassle

Why overpay when you don’t have to?