Switching your energy supplier at the right time can significantly reduce your business energy costs. While many Australians stay on the same plan for years, energy prices, discounts and contract terms change frequently and staying put can mean overpaying.
This guide explains when you should switch energy suppliers, the warning signs to look for, and how timing your switch can improve outcomes.
When Is the Best Time to Switch Energy Suppliers?
You should consider switching energy suppliers when your fixed contract ends, your discounts expire, your bills increase unexpectedly, or your energy usage changes. Reviewing your plan constantly helps avoid loyalty penalties and outdated pricing.
This applies to both residential and business energy customers.
Signs It May Be Time to Switch Energy Providers
1. Your Energy Contract Has Ended
Many energy plans revert to higher standing rates once a fixed-term contract finishes. If your contract has ended or is close to expiry, it’s one of the best times to compare suppliers.
2. Your Bills Have Increased Without Explanation
If your usage hasn’t changed but your bills have risen, this can indicate:
- Expired discounts
- Price increases passed on by retailers
- Being moved to a less competitive plan
Switching suppliers may help reset pricing.
3. Your Discounts Have Expired
Introductory discounts often expire after 12 or 24 months. Once this happens, your effective rate can increase significantly without notice.
A plan review can reveal better offers in the market.
4. Your Energy Usage Has Changed
Life and business changes can affect energy usage, including:
- Working from home
- Installing new appliances
- Business growth or downsizing
- Seasonal demand changes
A plan that suited you previously may no longer be cost-effective.
5. You’re on a Standing Offer
Standing offers are typically more expensive than market offers. If you’ve never actively chosen a plan, switching suppliers can often lead to immediate savings.
Is There a “Bad” Time to Switch Energy Suppliers?
In most cases, you can switch energy suppliers at any time. However, check for:
- Exit fees on fixed contracts
- Notice periods
- Embedded network restrictions
Switching close to contract expiry usually avoids penalties.
Will Switching Energy Suppliers Interrupt My Supply?
No. When you switch energy suppliers:
- Your gas and electricity supply remains uninterrupted
- The physical infrastructure stays the same
- Only the billing and pricing arrangement changes
The process is managed between retailers and networks.
What to Compare When Switching Energy Suppliers
Before switching, compare:
- Usage rates (c/kWh or MJ)
- Daily supply charges
- Contract length and exit fees
- Green energy options
- Billing and payment flexibility
Looking only at headline discounts can be misleading, total cost matters most.
How Switching Fits Into Smarter Energy Decisions
Switching suppliers is most effective when based on real usage data rather than assumptions. Accurate consumption information allows for meaningful comparisons and avoids being locked into unsuitable plans.
This approach is particularly important for businesses managing multiple sites or larger energy loads.
