Your electricity and gas bills include the following tariffs:
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A Service to Property (STP) charge: A set daily cost for your connection.
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Usage charges: Based on how much energy was consumed.
In some instances, a demand component may also be included.
Your tariff is determined by a few different factors, including:
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Your meter type: Whether a Basic or Interval meter is installed at the property.
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Your distributor: Who manages the energy network in your area.
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Property type: Whether the address is a residential household or a business.
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Energy usage: How much energy you use over time.
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Gas winter rates depend on your location:
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In some areas, they usually fall between 1 May - 31 October.
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In other areas, they run from 1 June - 30 September.
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And sometimes, no winter rates apply.
Below you can find more information about the most common tariff types, so you can understand your bill and what you’re paying for.
You don’t have to be an energy expert - we will help explain tariff types step by step.
Electricity Tariff Types
The way your rates are calculated depends on your specific tariff type and you can find your tariff on your electricity bill. See different tariff types below.
A) Flat Tariffs: The same price is charged for energy used day or night.
B) Time of Use (TOU): Rates vary depending on the time of day or night you use energy and for some tariffs the time of year (summer/winter).
Typical periods:
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Peak
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Off-peak
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Shoulder
The new residential ‘Smart Rate’ (Victoria only) If you received a notice transitioning you to the new three-part time of use structure, your windows are updating to:
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Smart Rate (midday): 11am - 4pm daily (your lowest rate window)
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Evening peak: 4pm - 9pm daily (shortened by one hour)
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Off-peak: 9pm - 11am daily
Example:
Using electricity during off-peak timings will cost less than using it during peak times.
How this benefits you:
To reduce your energy bills, aim to complete tasks like laundry during off-peak times to take advantage of the lower rates. Shifting your energy use can help reduce your bills, and knowing your time of use tariff's timings is key. You can find these timings listed under 'Electricity Charges' on the second page of your bill.
In addition, you may have:
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Demand Tariffs: Charges are based on your peak instantaneous usage. Learn more about demand tariffs.
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Controlled Load Tariff: For separately wired appliances like a hot water service or underfloor/slab heating.
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Solar Tariff: For any unused or excess solar power you generate and feed back into the electricity grid.