Electricity prices have risen significantly over the past 8 years largely due to increases in network costs. The ‘network’ is the transmission and distribution system of poles and wires that carries electricity to your home. The repair and replacement of ageing poles and wires, increased peak demand (periods placing the highest demand on the energy network—such as hot summer days), population growth, and rising standards for power reliability have all contributed to network cost increases.

Over the long term, developments in electricity delivery will give us a more reliable, modern and efficient power industry and help to build a secure energy future for Australia.

While a range of factors will continue to affect electricity prices, you can influence how much you pay by reducing your energy consumption and choosing the best contract for your circumstances.

Reducing your energy use will help to counter rising electricity costs. The impact on your bill will depend on the changes you make coupled with the impact of any price changes. Regardless of whether your bill reduces overall, it will be less than if you had done nothing (and far less than if you had increased your energy use)