Australian households are being urged to prepare for a significant rise in electricity bills in the coming year. As newly released government documents reveal another upswing in power prices just when many are gearing up for a hot summer. The briefing notes to Chris Bowen, the federal Energy Minister, outline that retail electricity prices are set to climb across several states.
The documents indicate that energy costs now sit just behind food and groceries as the biggest worry for Australian households. Starts at 60 They show that although government policies have delivered some relief to homes and small businesses, the baseline retail electricity pricing mechanism. The Default Market Offer, suggests a further “significant increase” in the coming financial year to save energy as power prices rise.
What’s Driving the Rise
The Default Market Offer (DMO), which sets the floor for electricity pricing in New South Wales, South East Queensland, Victoria and South Australia, shows projected household bill increases ranging from as little as 0.5 % to nearly 10 %, depending on the state. Starts at 60 Meanwhile, the government’s push to accelerate emissions reductions and expand renewable energy infrastructure is adding cost pressures in the short term, as part of its broader strategy to position Australia as a “pragmatic climate leader.
For older Australians and fixed-income households, the challenge is immediate: how to continue operating air conditioning, refrigeration and other essentials to save energy as power prices rise.
Five Easy Ways to Save Energy This Summer
As temperatures climb and bills follow, small adjustments can deliver meaningful savings:
- Prioritise fans over air conditioning: Ceiling and pedestal fans use about 80 % less energy than air conditioners. Use them alongside open windows in mornings and evenings to naturally cool your home.
- Smart air-conditioner settings: Set your air-con to around 24-25 °C rather than 20 °C to reduce cooling costs by roughly 10 %. Close blinds and doors to retain cool air.
- Switch off appliances on standby: TVs, computers, kitchen appliances still draw power when in standby. Turning them off at the wall can save up to A$100 annually.
- Wash smart, dry naturally: Opt for cold-water washing and line-drying wherever possible. Clothes dryers are one of the biggest summer power-users.
- Review your energy plan: Compare rates, shop around for cheaper providers or consider a time-of-use plan. Even small savings per kilowatt-hour can add up over summer.
With rising energy costs on the horizon, a little preparation and behavioural tweaks can help households. Especially those on fixed incomes, stay comfortable without a massive power bill shock.
Why Choose UNIfied?
At UNIfied Energy, we’re committed to making your electrification journey seamless. We help Australian households and businesses:
- Reduce energy bills
- Lower carbon emissions
- Confidently invest in clean energy living
Contact UNIfied Energy today or call 1300 817 847 to achieve greater savings in these precarious times. Start your journey of clean energy living.
