Electricity and gas plans in the ACT

Quick facts about ACT energy plans

• Customers in the ACT are able to choose from several electricity and gas retailers.
• The government regulates the maximum price retailers are able to charge customers for electricity in the ACT.
• Canberra aims to produce 90% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2020.

Search for and compare energy providers in the ACT

Sort by:

Name	Product	Green features	Billing	Green rating	Details	More details
Energy Locals		GreenPower Solar	Monthly billing	Green Electricity Guide rating	Green Electricity Guide rating Green options GreenPower Solar Billing Monthly billing Go to site More info	Go to site More info		loading Fetching your data...
Energy Australia		GreenPower Solar	Monthly billing Credit card fees	Green Electricity Guide rating	Green Electricity Guide rating Green options GreenPower Solar Billing Monthly billing Credit card fees More info	More info		loading Fetching your data...
ActewAGL		GreenPower Solar	Monthly billing Credit card fees	Green Electricity Guide rating	Green Electricity Guide rating Green options GreenPower Solar Billing Monthly billing Credit card fees More info	More info		loading Fetching your data...
Origin		GreenPower Solar	Monthly billing Credit card fees	Green Electricity Guide rating	Green Electricity Guide rating Green options GreenPower Solar Billing Monthly billing Credit card fees More info	More info		loading Fetching your data...
Powerclub		Solar	Monthly billing	N/A	Green options Solar Billing Monthly billing More info	More info		loading Fetching your data...

Load More

Compare up to 4 providers

Clear selection

Compare

How does the energy market work in the ACT?

Electricity prices in Canberra are fully regulated, which means the government determines energy prices. As a result, there aren't as many energy retailers as there are in other parts of the country. However, customers can still choose from several electricity and gas retailers.

Most of the energy produced in the ACT comes from solar sources and the government plans to have 90% of the ACT's electricity coming from renewable sources by 2020. The ACT has several solar farms and residents can get solar feed-in tariffs from all of the main retailers operating in the territory. However, not all retailers offer installation so make sure to check if you need to arrange solar installation before signing up.

Energy rebates and concessions in the ACT

There are two concessions available to Australians living in the Australian Capital Territory: the utilities concession and the energy concession. To be eligible for either concession, you must have an eligible concession or pension card.

Check if you're eligible for any ACT concessions and learn how to apply

How to compare energy plans in the ACT

Energy prices in the ACT are regulated by the government. However, some providers may still offer cheaper plans than others. In addition to price, there are several other factors you should consider when choosing an energy plan.

• Solar installation. While most providers in the ACT offer solar feed-in tariffs, not all providers offer solar panel installation. If you're looking to install a new solar system, it might be cheaper to sign up with a retailer who offers comprehensive solar services including installation.
• Discounts. Many providers offer discounts. These discounts can include bill reductions for paying your bills on time and bundling discounts if you sign up for electricity and gas with the same provider.
• Flexible payment options. Check to see how your provider lets you pay your bills. It might be possible to pay your bills in advance or in flexible instalments.
• Monitoring. Some providers let you monitor your energy bills and usage using a smartphone app.
• Fees. Some providers charge a fee for finishing a contract early or signing up for a new plan.
• Contract terms. Make sure to check your contract terms carefully. Some providers automatically roll over your contract when it expires, which can be convenient but may come with higher costs.

How can I switch providers in the ACT?

Because the ACT's energy market is deregulated, it's easy for consumers to switch providers. All you need to do is choose a new provider and sign up for an energy plan. Your new retailer will typically take care of notifying your former retailer that you are switching.

How to switch energy providers

Frequently asked questions about energy in the ACT

• How can I make a complaint about my energy retailer?

  If you have a problem with your current energy provider that you are unable to resolve, contact the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal.

• What happens if I move out of the ACT?

  If you're moving out of the ACT, you might have to switch providers depending on where you move. Some states, such as New South Wales or Victoria, offer plenty of options for gas and electricity providers. While other states such as Tasmania or Western Australia are regulated and have limited options. In many remote areas, you won't have any choice in your energy retailer.

• What is GreenPower?

  GreenPower is a government scheme that allows consumers to purchase renewable energy through their provider as a way of supporting renewable energy. Providers offering GreenPower are accredited by the Australian government. You can find more information in our guide to GreenPower.

Thomas Stelzer

Tom Stelzer is a writer for Finder specialising in personal finance, including personal loans and car loans, as well as small business and business loans. He has previously worked as a freelance writer covering entertainment, culture and football. He has a Master of Media Arts and Production and Bachelor of Communications in Journalism from the University of Technology Sydney.