Get exclusive money-saving offers and guides
Straight to your inbox
By signing up, you agree to the Finder
Privacy & Cookies Policy
and
Terms of Use, Disclaimer & Privacy Policy.
Compare Energy
Brand Vs Brand
Energy Brands
Guides And Help
We’re reader-supported and may be paid when you visit links to partner sites. We don’t compare all products in the market, but we’re working on it!
Who's offering cheap rates in SE Queensland?
So long as you live in South East Queensland, you have full choice over what energy plan you purchase. Ergon Energy is the only option for the rest of Queensland, however.
At Finder, we've put together all the tools and tips you need to compare energy plans and find something good among the many options available.
Quick facts about Queensland energy
- Queensland's energy market is deregulated for customers in South East Queensland.
- If you live in South East Queensland, you can choose from a wide range of electricity retailers.
- If you live in regional Queensland, you don't have a choice in retailers as Ergon Energy is the only option outside of South East Queensland.
- There are only a few gas providers operating in the state.
Apply for an energy plan from Australia's most popular brands
🧪How we determined popular brands
The most popular brands were based on market share using figures from the Australian Energy Regulator (AER's) Annual retail markets report 2019-20 (Table 2.1). Keep in mind that the most popular brand may not always be the best for you, and you're encouraged to compare for yourself to find one that works for you.
Compare energy retailers in QLD
The following comparison is a general guide of what brands are available in Queensland. Always check on the provider's website if your postcode is covered.
Best energy retailers in Queensland
Although there is no 'best' retailer, to give you a general guide, we looked at complaints to the 15 largest electricity retailers that are available in Queensland (by customers) and ranked them by the smallest proportion of complaints to a retailer's total customers in Australia.
| Retailer | Number of customers | Number of complaints | Complaints as a proportion of customers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diamond Energy | 9,661 | 23 | 0% |
| Powershop | 52,871 | 169 | 1% |
| Locality Planning Energy | 26,253 | 118 | 0% |
| Ergon Energy | 627,523 | 3844 | 1% |
| amaysim Energy | 95,212 | 1,203 | 1% |
| Origin Energy | 1,831,948 | 26,598 | 1% |
| Dodo | 47,839 | 782 | 2% |
| EnergyAustralia | 1,044,384 | 17,806 | 2% |
| 1st Energy | 16,096 | 395 | 2% |
| AGL | 1,390,017 | 41,703 | 3% |
| Alinta Energy | 352,679 | 13,782 | 4% |
| Momentum Energy | 28,473 | 1,368 | 4% |
| Powerdirect | 47,932 | 2,352 | 3% |
| Red Energy | 306,228 | 15,404 | 3% |
| Simply Energy | 133,318 | 9,627 | 7% |
Source: AER, Annual retail markets report 2019-20 (Table 2.1 & 5.2)
What's in this guide?
Electricity and gas providers in QLD
| Link to provider review | ⚡ Electricity | ♨️ Gas | ☀️ Solar |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Energy | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ |
| AGL | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Alinta | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ |
| amaysim | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Click Energy | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ |
| DC Power Co | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Diamond Energy | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Discover Energy | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Dodo | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Energy Locals | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ |
| EnergyAustralia | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ |
| LPE | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Mojo Power | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Momentum Energy | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Origin Energy | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Powerclub | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Powerdirect | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Powershop | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Qenergy | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
| ReAmped | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Red Energy | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Simply Energy | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ |
Business owners can also sign up for electricity with Next Business Energy.
| Provider | ⚡ Electricity customers in Australia | ♨️ Gas customers in Australia | Average call wait times | Percentage of annual complaints |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Energy | 0.20% | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| AGL | 21.20% | 37.00% | 34 sec | 2.7% |
| Alinta | 5.40% | 2.50% | 37 sec | 3.6% |
| amaysim | 1.40% | 1.10% | 32 sec | 1.2% |
| Click Energy | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| DC Power Co | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Diamond Energy | 0.10% | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Discover Energy | 0% | 0% | N/A | N/A |
| Dodo | 0.70% | 0.60% | N/A | N/A |
| Energy Locals | 0.30% | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| EnergyAustralia | 15.90% | 19.10% | 101 sec | 1.6% |
| LPE | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Mojo Power | 0.10% | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Momentum Energy | 0.40% | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Origin Energy | 27.90% | 27.30% | 145 sec | 1.3% |
| Powerclub | 0% | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Powerdirect | 0.70% | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Powershop | 0.80% | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Qenergy | 0.10% | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| ReAmped | 0.10% | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Red Energy | 4.70% | 3.30% | 123 sec | 2.9% |
| Simply Energy | 2.00% | 2.50% | 35 sec | 7% |
Is electricity expensive in QLD?
1Our research found that the average quarterly electricity bill in Australia is around $351. QLD came in cheaper at $331 per quarter.
| State | Average quarterly bill | Annual bill |
|---|---|---|
| New South Wales | $357 | $1,428 |
| Victoria | $348 | $1,392 |
| Queensland | $331 | $1,324 |
| South Australia | $422 | $1,688 |
1.Average bills per state are based on Finder's Customer Sentiment Tracker. Finder's Consumer Sentiment Tracker takes responses from 16,000 Australians to get an average figure. The last number was last checked in March 2021. We will continue to update this data.
Is gas expensive in QLD?
1Our research found that the average quarterly gas bill in Australia is around $213. QLD came in cheaper at $183 per quarter.
| State | Average quarterly bill | Annual bill |
|---|---|---|
| New South Wales | $195 | $780 |
| Victoria | $243 | $972 |
| Queensland | $183 | $732 |
| South Australia | $207 | $828 |
1.Average bills per state are based on Finder's Customer Sentiment Tracker. Finder's Consumer Sentiment Tracker takes responses from 16,000 Australians to get an average figure. The last number was last checked in March 2021. We will continue to update this data.
Is price everything?
Scrambling for the lowest-priced plan can come with a trade-off. Here are a few features to consider outside of the cheapest advertised price:
- Advertised prices can rise. The price of a plan now is not the price of a plan in the future. Your usage rates might go up, discounts eventually run out, and you could be left on a pricey standing offer if you move or your current plan expires.
- Complaints. Finder's customer service rating (listed next to providers in our table) and the number of complaints lodged against a provider (from the AER's 2019-2020 report) can help you decide if a retailer is helpful and responsive.
- How green? Usually, greener energy will cost you a bit extra (via GreenPower). But not all retailers even offer this, while others will let you opt in for carbon neutrality, or offer completely renewable energy to begin with (e.g. Powershop).
- Energy tracking. Certain providers have apps or online tools that make monitoring your energy use a lot simpler than using your smart meter, for example.
Example: Advertised prices can rise sharply
Let's assume you bought the cheapest energy plan available at the start of last year. This is what it offered:- Usage rate: 22c/kWh
- Supply charge: 100c/kWh
- Discount: 10% guaranteed for 12 months.
Over the first year, you used around 4,600kWh of energy (standard consumption for a Queensland household), and paid a total of:
[$1,012 (usage) + $365 (supply)] x 90% (guaranteed discount) = $1,239.30
At the start of the second year, your energy company raised its usage rates to 22c/kWh, and the discount wore off. Now, for the same usage, you'd pay:
$1,058 (usage) + $365 (supply) = $1,423
This is a jump of about $185 from the original advertised price, without any change.
Key terms in QLD to help you compare
Discounts
Discounts can apply to some or all of your bill. Usually, discounts expire after a certain period of time called the benefit period.
Market share
The amount of the market controlled by a provider. A provider that possesses 10% of the market share has 10% of all energy customers in the state or throughout Australia.
Reference price
A price all other plans are compared to. By having all plans expressed as a percentage higher or lower than the reference price, you can assess which are better deals.
GreenPower
A GreenPower rating tells you what percentage of your power comes from renewable sources. If you had GreenPower 50%, then half of the energy you use is purchased from renewable generators.
Distributors
A distributor is in charge of the physical power network: building, upgrading, and maintaining the poles and wires that carry power to your home.
Rebates
A refund on your energy bill, provided by the government or your retailer. Rebates can be offered as a sign up incentive or as a concession/welfare benefit.
Energy plans from some of the main providers in QLD: What's on offer?
Note: Plan information last checked on April 2021.
AGL - Essentials
Simple fixed rate power with the option of monthly billing. There are no exit fees, and the benefit period lasts for 12 months. Choose between 10% and 100% GreenPower, and potentially earn flybuys points when you pay your power bill.
Energy Australia - Total Plan Home
Fixed electricity rates plus a 12 month guaranteed discount on your whole energy bill. Flexible payment options, between 10% and 100% GreenPower available, plus the option to turn your plan carbon neutral after 6 months have passed.
Origin - Go
Get fixed rates on your power for the first 12 months, plus flexible billing and payment options. A choice of between 25% and 100% GreenPower exists. Link your Everyday Rewards account to receive bonus points, points for paying your bill, and access to 25% GreenPower for free.
Powershop - Shopper Market Offer
No connection fees, flexible payments, and monthly billing with variable rate electricity. If you pre-purchase power through the Powershop, you'll get a discount off your overall power bill. 100% GreenPower is available for sign up.
Discover Energy - Smart Saver
No exit fees and variable rates, with a guaranteed usage discount for the first 12 months. You have to agree to online billing and direct debit payments.
Are solar panels a good idea in Brisbane?
As the capital of the Sunshine State, it comes as no surprise that Brisbane is one of the most optimal places in Australia to harness the power of the sun. Get your solar panel quote.
What type of energy discounts do providers in QLD offer?
We went through all the power plans available to customers in south east Queensland and identified the major kinds of discounts you can access. Here's what we found:
Bill credits.
A bill credit is a certain amount of money that's applied to your power bill, usually as a sign up bonus.
Pay on time discounts.
Customers who are always on time paying their bills will get a discount off their bill. It disappears if you miss or are late with any payments.
Guaranteed discounts.
No matter what, a guaranteed discount will work to reduce your bill. You don't need to meet any special conditions.
Direct debit discounts.
Agreeing to pay by direct debit will give a percentage discount off your bill or usage charges.
Very few discounts are unlimited, with most expiring after a certain period of time known as the benefit period. In Queensland, the most common type of discount is a guaranteed discount on your total bill.
Last checked April 2021.
How to get cheaper energy
- Examine base rates. While not the only part of a plan to watch out for, the actual amount you pay per kWh of electricity is the most important part of an energy plan. Once you've accounted for other offers and discounts, a lower usage rate generally translates into a cheaper energy bill.
- Check discounts. When you're offered a discount, it will be either conditional or guaranteed. Conditional discounts require you to meet certain conditions, while guaranteed discounts apply no matter what. Guaranteed is usually better because of this, though both last only for the limited benefit period of the plan.
- Tariff options. Time of use tariffs split the day into peak and off-peak times, with peak rates being way higher than off-peak. If your energy use is heavily weighted towards off-peak hours (morning and early afternoon), then you might benefit from a time of use tariff instead of a flat rate.
- Compare often. Variable rates change and benefit periods run out. By reviewing your energy plan at least annually - the most common benefit period for plans - you can save money by switching to new plans that offer better discounts, deals, and rates.
How much is the energy rebate in QLD?
If you are eligible to receive an energy rebate, it will work to reduce the total amount of your bill by a flat amount or a percentage. Eligibility generally requires you to meet a specific condition, which can be something like holding a valid concession card.
To find out what rebates you can access, see our guide to energy rebates and concessions in Australia and have a look at the Queensland section.
When are off-peak and on-peak periods in QLD?
Power use is treated differently depending on what time you're using it: in a peak, off-peak, or shoulder period. These periods don't matter on single rate plans, which charge a single flat rate for all times of the day, but on a time-of-use tariff usage rates will vary between them. Here's how they work in south east Queensland:
- Peak. 4pm - 8pm weekdays. This is when demand is highest, so you'll pay the highest prices.
- Off-peak. 10pm - 7am every day. State-wide demand is at its lowest during off-peak, so prices are low, too.
- Shoulder. All other times (7am - 4pm, 8pm - 10pm weekdays, 7am to 10pm weekends). Sits between the other two periods in terms of prices and demand.
How does the QLD energy market work?
Retailers sell you plans but don't deliver utilities to your house. This is the responsibility of your energy distributor, of which there are only a couple in Queensland. Retailers purchase energy from the distributor and pass it on to you.
Electricity distributors
| Distributor | Location |
|---|---|
| Energex | South East QLD, including Brisbane, the Gold Coast, the Sunshine Coast |
| Ergon Energy | Rural and regional QLD |
Gas distributors
| Distributor | Location |
|---|---|
| Allgas Energy | Southern suburbs and Mornington Peninsula |
| Australian Gas Networks | Brisbane region (Brisbane CBD, north of the Brisbane River and Ipswich) and Northern Region (Rockhampton and Gladstone) |
How to read a meter in QLD
Residents of Queensland can choose to either read their meter themselves or get a technician in to do it. For a technician, you simply have to ensure that they can access the meter. If you possess a smart meter, manual readings aren't possible - they must be done online.
If you're planning to read your own meter, do a quick safety check. See that the meter and its housing are free from any damage that might have been caused by water or animals, and that no pieces are burned or melted. We describe here how to read a few common meters, but if you'd like more details or have a different meter see our guide.
- Smart meter. A smart meter measures usage in 15 to 30 minute chunks. You won't be able to read one by looking at it. Instead, go to your retailer's page and check out the usage chart there.
- Clock face meter. Write down the number on each clock face from left to right. When the dial is somewhere between two numbers, take the lower value. Don't take note of the dial labelled 1/10. Your power usage will be this meter reading minus the previous reading from your latest bill.
- Electronic meter. Hit the "display" button to show your usage. If the meter cycles through several different readings, make note of all of them.
How often will you get your bill?
Power bills must be issued at least once every 3 months by Queensland retailers. However, your retailer may choose to send it monthly instead or allow you to opt in for monthly billing. This is how three large energy retailers handle billing on their plans:
- Origin. The Origin Max Saver plan involves monthly billing by default. As part of this plan, you have to agree to receive your bills via email, and you won't get them in a paper form.
- Energy Australia. The No Frills plan has quarterly billing only, and will not bill more frequently. If you want a paper bill rather than just having one emailed to you, you'll be required to pay an extra fee.
- AGL. When you're on AGL's Residential Essential Savers Plan, your bill will come quarterly unless you specify that you'd rather have it monthly. Your bill will be sent to you by email, though you can request a paper bill for an additional fee.
How do you connect electricity in QLD?
If you're moving house, you'll need to arrange turning the power off at your previous place and getting it turned on at your new home. Here's a few approaches to get your power transferred smoothly:
- Use your previous provider. If your current energy plan suits you fine, contact your retailer and let them handle the move for you. Keep in mind that not all energy plans are available everywhere, so you may be forced to switch.
- Get your agent or landlord to do it. Landlords are sometimes responsible for the energy account at a property, depending on the specific rental situation. If your landlord is handling the power, sit down and work out the details with them, then let them figure out the switch for you, including connection fees.
- Compare online. There's no better time to upgrade your energy plan than when you're moving house anyway. You could source a better deal than what you have or just find a company that works better for you if you compare online, saving you money in the long run.
In Queensland, there are two electricity distributors: Energex in the south east and Ergon Energy everywhere else. Ergon Energy doesn't charge connection fees, so here's how much it will cost you with Energex:
| Distributor | Connection/disconnection fee |
|---|---|
| Energex | $12.55 |
Switching
The retailer you choose makes a noticeable difference to your energy bill. After comparing energy plans, switching is a matter of applying with your new provider and cancelling your existing plan. Your new provider should be able to supply your energy by the following day.
Queenslanders are the second least likely to switch plans, while Victorians are the most likely (3.6% switch per quarter vs. 6.6%). Don't get left behind on signing up to a better energy plan, with the chance of saving up to $263 per year.
Compare electricity retailers and prices in Queensland April 2021
Based on the AER annual model usage in the Energex network, the AER reference price is $1,508 / year.
Energy prices change regularly in VIC, NSW, QLD, SA, ACT and TAS. Our pricing and estimates below may not always take these possible changes into account, so please confirm plan details and pricing with the provider before making a decision.
Prices last checked on April 2021 and are subject to change. You can compare plans by price using our engine below. Please use our engine for a specific comparison in your postcode.
Important notes: The estimated price we show by default is based on a single rate tariff. On your bill this might be known as a 'peak tariff', 'peak only' or an 'anytime tariff'. There are other tariff types available to customers and you may need to contact your provider if you are on these tariffs:
- Single rate with a controlled load
- Time of use
- Time of use with a controlled load
The price estimate should not be used as an official quote, but an indication of what your costs may be on the plan. It varies based on whether you provide us with your bill details. You can learn more here.
Picture: GettyImages
More guides on Finder
-
Average SME electricity bill
Want to know if your business is paying too much for energy? We've analysed bills for power from SMEs across Australia.
-
How to switch your energy plan or provider
Switching electricity plans should be easy. Find out what to consider in choosing the best energy plan to switch to in our guide.
-
Energex network and service information
Have an issue with your power supply? Find how to reach Energex's support team.
-
Energy Australia Business Energy Review April 2021
Take advantage of fixed rate electricity and gas for your company with Energy Australia’s Total Plan Business.
-
Who is my energy distributor?
Find out who your electricity distributor is based on where you live.
-
Victorian Electricity Distributors
Find out who your electricity distributor is in Victoria.
-
NSW Electricity Distributors
Find out who your electricity distributor is in New South Wales.
-
Electric car ownership guide
Find out how to switch from a fossil-fuel guzzler to an electric car.
-
Time of use vs single rate tariff
Can you save money by using energy at certain times of the day on a time of use plan?
Lower your household bills
Filter by price, data and speed
Compare internet from over 50 providers in our broadband engine.
Finder Editor's Pick: Internet plans
Check out our select picks of the best plans available.
Replace your internet with mobile
Mobile broadband is fast becoming a viable alternative to fixed line.
NBN on the cheap
Get an NBN connection on a budget with our curated list of plans.
Ask an Expert
I am moving to Dalby Qld in July. Will be a brand new account for electricity. Any advice on electricity provider’s here.
I will opt for off peak hot water.
Any advice on where to start before will be much appreciated. Thanks in advance. Cheers V.
Hi Veronica,
Thanks for your question.
You may refer to our list of electricity and gas providers in Queensland. To help you decide, Finder designed our comparison table in a way that it’s easier for you to compare options by highlighting critical product details like features, customer service rating, etc. You can click on ‘View details’ to see the pros and cons per provider. You can click on ‘More info’ to be rerouted to our review page to check the details about the provider and cost.
Once you are ready to sign up, you can click on the ‘Go to site’ button (if available) to be securely redirected to the provider’s website. Or hit on the ‘Enquire now’ button (if available) to have an electricity wizard contact you to discuss your options. You simply need to provide your name, contact details, property type, and postcode then make sure you read and understand the terms and conditions before clicking on the green ‘Enquire now’ button.
As a gentle reminder, always check the provider’s website and the plan T&Cs before entering into any energy plan for certain restrictions, limitations, fees, and exclusions that apply.
Hope this helps.
Cheers,
May
Please ,can you tell me the best (cheapest) retailer in the Brisbane area for average use in a domestic situation.Thank You.
Hi Willie,
Thanks for your question.
Unfortunately, we are unable to tell whose the best or cheapest retailer in your area because pricing depends on many factors including energy features and consumption. An energy broker may be able to assist you in choosing the right provider for your needs. They can compare your energy use, your location, and various retailers to pair your house with the ideal retailer and plan.
You can reach out to an energy broker to learn more and get the help you need to explore your options.
Cheers,
Anndy
Hello with my current power plan I receive 10% off usage fee discount and our recent bill was about $ 200 quarterly
and Gas we receive 7% off usage discount at the moment and we pay about $140 quarterly
Do you have any better deal?
Thanks
Rad
Hi Rad,
Thanks for contacting us.
Just to confirm we are finder.com.au – a comparison site and provide general advice only. If you would like to find out more, you can fill out the form on this page and a representative will be in contact.
Regards,
Clarizza