Summary
This article:
covers common questions about tariffs, including what they are and examples of use
explains how to change a tariff
More info
What is a tariff?
What is a tariff?
It’s a setting for your meter that determines how you’re charged for energy use. Your tariff depends on the type of meter you have and what it’s been set up to do. For example, if:
a household electricity meter is set to a single (or flat) rate tariff, there are no peak or off-peak rates to think about – charges are the same, day or night
a household or small business natural gas meter is set to a single rate tariff, it’s often charged in usage blocks, also called ‘stepped rates’, where the first block is the highest price per MJ then the charge tends to lower with each block of usage after that. (Note some gas distributors don’t have stepped rates.)
a household or small business electricity meter is set to a Time of Use tariff, different rates apply at different times of the day and night. A customer may benefit from using high energy use equipment during shoulder and off-peak times
an apartment complex with a pool has a meter set to a Controlled Load tariff for the pool pump, it can run at certain times of the day, when demand is lower
a small business with high-energy-use machines has an electricity meter set to Demand Tariff, avoiding spikes in usage by spreading production evenly over a 24-hour cycle could deliver lower energy costs
How do I know I’m on the right tariff?
How do I know I’m on the right tariff?
Choosing the right tariff can be complicated and selecting one that doesn’t suit your energy use can result in higher bills. Contact your electrician, gas fitter or plumber to discuss what you’re trying to achieve. They’ll explain your current configuration and help you decide if changes could be useful.
Where do I see peak and off-peak times?
Where do I see peak and off-peak times?
First up, not everyone will see peak and off-peak times. You’ll see them only if you have a Controlled Load or Time of Use tariff, and only if we’re able to display the content. In this case, you’ll see the times on your bill under New charges and credits. If the times aren’t showing on your bill, contact us.
How do I change a tariff?
How do I change a tariff?
See Change energy supply on our website for instructions.