What is a controlled load?
Worried about the cost of long hot showers? You might be eligible for a controlled load tariff, which offers cheaper electricity rates during certain times of the day.
Key takeaways
- Controlled load tariffs offer cheaper electricity rates for certain high-energy appliances that don't require continuous power.
- These include hot water systems, pool pumps and underfloor heating.
- Controlled load prices are usually offered during off-peak times or during the day when solar generation is high.
- To use a controlled load tariff, your appliances must be connected to their own circuit, and you may need a smart meter depending on your distributor.
What is a controlled load?
A controlled load is a type of electricity tariff that lets you access cheaper electricity rates for specific appliances, like hot water systems, pool pumps or underfloor heating.
These appliances are metered separately from the rest of your home and are only powered during set times of the day (more on that in just a bit).
Because controlled loads run on a separate circuit, you may need an electrician to install one if your property doesn't already have one. Depending on your distributor and your current meter, you may also need a smart meter to access them.
Controlled load tariffs are available in New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, Queensland, Tasmania and the Australian Capital Territory.
What time of day are controlled loads powered?
Exactly when power is supplied (and which appliances qualify) will depend on your distributor, energy provider and setup.
Traditionally, controlled loads were only turned on overnight during off-peak hours — when electricity demand is lower — to reduce pressure on the grid.
However, they may also be activated during the day when solar generation is high.
This approach is similar to what providers do with Time-of-Use tariffs, where electricity prices vary depending on the time you use power.
You may also need to pay a small daily supply charge (a few cents) depending on your energy distributor.
"It wasn't until we got our first electricity bill at our new home that we found out about something called controlled load. Turns out the previous owner had set it up for the pool pump. As first-time pool owners, it turned out to be a helpful way to keep our energy costs down."
Are controlled load tariffs the same everywhere in Australia?
Controlled load tariffs vary depending on where you live.
In NSW and QLD, you can usually choose between two types. In the ACT and SA, there's generally just one controlled load option available.
They can also go by different names, depending on the state or territory you're in:
- NSW: Controlled Load 1 and Controlled Load 2. Also known as CL1 and CL2
- QLD: Tariff 31 and Tariff 33
- TAS: Tariff 61 or Tariff 63
- VIC: Controlled Load Tariff or Dedicated Circuit Charge
- ACT: Off-peak
- SA: Controlled Load
We'll go into more detail shortly. But keep in mind that exact electricity rates and supply times will vary depending on your energy provider and setup.
It's always best to check directly with your provider.
What's the difference between Controlled Load 1 and Controlled Load 2?
Controlled Load 1 tariffs are usually cheaper, but will only provide power for a short period, typically during off-peak hours.
They're ideal for appliances such as hot water systems.
Controlled Load 2 offers more flexibility. You can run appliances for longer, such as pool pumps or underfloor heating, but the electricity rates are also higher than Controlled Load 1.
What's the difference between QLD's Tariff 31 and 33, and Tasmania's Tariff 61 and 63?
It's a similar structure to Controlled Load 1 and Controlled Load 2.
- Tariff 31 (QLD) and Tariff 61 (TAS) offer cheaper rates for shorter, off-peak periods — often used for hot water systems.
- Tariff 33 (QLD) and Tariff 63 (TAS) offer longer supply times, including during the day, but may come with higher rates.
How can I tell if I'm on a controlled load tariff already?
Check your electricity bill (typically the second page) to see if there's a controlled load charge.
Alternatively, your energy provider will be able to advise if you're taking advantage of a controlled load tariff, and if not, they can guide you through the process.
If you're already on one, it's worth comparing your current energy plan to see if you can get a better deal on your controlled load tariff and other electricity rates in general.
Paying more than the average rate or want a better deal?
Compare energy plans to see if you can switch and save.
Are there any downsides to being on a controlled load tariff?
The main catch of a controlled load tariff is that the plans are designed to only provide power to the nominated circuits or devices for a small amount of time each day.
There may also be an initial cost in changing your metering set-up to support a controlled load tariff, although the long-term benefits of cheaper power for that device can be worth it.
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