Quick Answer:
There’s no one-size-fits-all “cheapest energy supplier” in Australia—prices vary depending on where you live, how much power you use, and whether you’re on a standard or market contract. However, based on 2025 residential price comparisons, ReAmped Energy, Glo Bird Energy, and Tango Energy are frequently among the lowest-cost retailers in major metro areas like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.
Why is finding the cheapest energy supplier so tricky?
Let’s be real—comparing energy providers can feel like comparing mobile plans from the early 2000s.
There’s base rates, daily supply charges, pay-on-time discounts, usage caps, and tariff types. It’s confusing by design.
And because Australia’s energy market is deregulated in most states, suppliers set their own prices and structures, which can change with barely any notice.
Here’s what determines who’s cheapest for you:
- Your location (postcode-based pricing)
- Your usage pattern (high vs low, peak vs off-peak)
- Whether you’re on solar
- Your current plan type and contract term
So the right supplier for a four-bedroom home in suburban Adelaide might not work for a city apartment in Brisbane.
Who are the cheapest energy providers in 2025?
Let’s break down who consistently offers competitive rates in capital cities. These providers often top price comparison charts compiled by platforms like Energy Made Easy, Canstar Blue, and Finder.
1. ReAmped Energy
- Best for: Low base rates and no lock-in contracts
- Known for: Encouraging customers to switch if they’re no longer competitive (seriously)
- Catch: 100% online service—no call centre
2. GloBird Energy
- Best for: Flexible plans with solid usage rates
- Known for: Big presence in VIC and NSW
- Catch: Discounted plans often depend on paying by direct debit
3. Tango Energy
- Best for: Locked-in pricing for peace of mind
- Known for: Transparent flat rates and solar-friendly options
- Catch: Limited availability outside VIC
Honourable mentions:
- Kogan Energy – Competitive bundles for tech-savvy users
- Amber Electric – Unique wholesale model that rewards usage during off-peak
- Momentum Energy – Owned by Hydro Tasmania, with decent GreenPower credentials
Prices do change frequently, so always double-check current plans using postcode-based tools.
Do government comparison tools really help?
Actually—yes. If you’re not using one, you’re probably overpaying.
Australia has two major, government-run price comparison sites:
- Energy Made Easy (run by the Australian Energy Regulator, for NSW, QLD, SA, ACT, TAS)
- Victorian Energy Compare (for VIC only)
These tools let you:
- Enter your actual energy usage from a past bill
- See which plans are cheapest in your area
- Compare rates apples-for-apples (including GST and discounts)
Tip: Always enter your last 12 months of usage if you can—it gives a far more accurate result than default averages.
Why are big retailers rarely the cheapest?
You might’ve noticed names like AGL, Origin, and EnergyAustralia haven’t popped up yet.
While these “Big 3” retailers offer brand familiarity, they often:
- Prioritise stability over ultra-competitive rates
- Bundle in call centres, mobile apps, and loyalty programs
- Offer deep discounts—but with higher base rates
That doesn’t mean they’re bad—just not always the cheapest. In fact, many small retailers undercut them specifically on price.
What’s the catch with cheap energy deals?
Here’s where it gets real.
A low-cost energy plan might:
- Require direct debit
- Be 100% digital-only (no phone support)
- Exclude solar feed-in tariffs
- Have time-based pricing quirks (e.g. high peak rates offset by cheap off-peak)
And let’s not forget the classic introductory discount that vanishes after 12 months.
If a plan looks too good to be true?
Read the Energy Fact Sheet—every supplier is legally required to provide one. It shows rates, fees, and conditions in black and white.
Real-world comparison: Metro rates in 2025
| City | Sample Cheapest Retailer | Annual Cost Estimate* |
|---|---|---|
| Sydney | ReAmped Energy | $1,350 |
| Melbourne | Tango Energy | $1,300 |
| Brisbane | GloBird Energy | $1,400 |
| Adelaide | Lumo Energy | $1,450 |
| Canberra | ActewAGL | $1,500 |
*Based on average usage of 4,000 kWh/year. Individual rates will vary.
How can an energy broker help with all this?
Here’s the deal. Not everyone has time to read fact sheets, compare 15 providers, or keep switching every year. That’s where an energy broker can be a game-changer—especially for businesses or multi-site operators.
An energy broker can:
- Compare retail plans across the full market
- Negotiate lower rates (sometimes unpublished online)
- Spot billing errors or overcharges
- Handle plan switching and renewal deadlines
- Save time while reducing your cost per kWh
In a market this volatile, working with an energy broker may actually net you cheaper long-term rates than trying to DIY it every 12 months.
FAQ: Quick Answers
Q: Is it worth switching suppliers every year?
A: Yes. Loyalty rarely pays in energy retail. Reviewing your plan every 6–12 months can shave hundreds off your annual bill.
Q: What’s the cheapest time to use electricity?
A: Generally overnight or midday (if you’re on time-of-use pricing). Always check your tariff type.
Q: Are wholesale plans like Amber Electric really cheaper?
A: Sometimes—but prices fluctuate daily. Best for flexible users who can shift usage off-peak.
Final Thought
Finding the cheapest energy supplier in Australia isn’t a one-time job—it’s an ongoing process. Rates change, plans expire, and your own usage habits evolve.
Sure, you can go it alone and hunt down a good deal each year. But if you’re short on time—or just sick of the spreadsheets—leaning on an experienced energy broker could be the smartest way to stay ahead without the guesswork.
Because at the end of the day, energy shouldn’t be this hard—or this expensive.