Who are the gas and electricity retailers?
To get an up-to-date list of electricity and gas retailers, including contact phone numbers and links to websites, visit the YourChoice website.
Who owns the different energy retailers?
Energy retailers have a mix of ownership and structures; some are publicly owned and some are privately owned by Australian or overseas investors. All retailers have been licensed by the Essential Services Commission and must meet certain criteria regarding their technical and financial capabilities. Your retailer will be able to provide you with information about their ownership structure.
Does the Government set the prices for electricity and gas?
No, the government does not set the retail price that you pay. Electricity and gas retailers charge whatever prices they choose. If you are not satisfied with your current retailer, check prices from other retailers on the Your Choice website. You could find a deal that suits you better.
Several smaller costs are added together to make the full retail price you pay. One part of the retail price is the network cost, for electricity and gas to be delivered to you. Network costs are approved by the Australian Energy Regulator.
Why make a choice?
Since 2002, all Victorian electricity and gas customers have been able to choose their energy retailer and the type of contract or energy plan they enter into. There are now many energy retailers in Victoria offering a range of energy plans, including options like green energy, dual fuel deals and other offers and incentives.
For further information on choosing an energy retailer visit the Your Choice website.
How to make a choice
Victorian households and businesses are able to choose their electricity and gas retailer. You can also choose the type of contract that you have with your energy retailer.
For more information on how to make your choice visit the Your Choice website.
Compare your electricity or gas bill
To search and compare electricity and gas tariffs in your area, visit the Your Choice Website. This website gives you information on different tariffs - you can compare your current tariff with another retailer.
Will changing my retailer affect my energy supply?
Moving to a market contract, whether with your existing retailer or with a new retailer of your choice, will not affect the reliability or quality of your energy supply.
Distributors own and manage the electricity poles and wires and gas pipes in the street that deliver electricity and gas to your home and are responsible for the quality and reliability of the supply. They also read your meter. You do not have choice of distributor.
Retailers buy the electricity and gas in bulk from distributors and then sell it to you. Retailers bill you and generally manage your relationship with the rest of the energy industry on your behalf.
Can I get Green Energy?
A number of retailers offer environmentally-friendly products. Most are accredited under the Government Green Power Accreditation Scheme. For more information about Green Power and which retailers offer Green Power products, visit the Government approved Green Power website.
Considering gettinga solar PV panel?
Are you considering getting solar PV panels? The Your Choice website has information on a range of issues you should consider before making this decision.