Energy · 3 min read
How to read your power bill in five minutes
Your power bill isn't as scary as it looks. Here's where to find the bits that matter, in about five minutes.
By Agent Bill team · 3 November 2026
Power bills are built to be paid, not read. But once you know where to look, it takes about five minutes. Grab your latest bill and a cuppa.
1. Find your billing period
Near the top you'll see the dates the bill covers. Check how many days that is. A 92-day bill and a 61-day bill aren't comparable, so always look at cost per day or per year, not just the total.
2. Find your plan name
Somewhere on the bill is the name of your plan. Write it down. You'll need it when you compare, or when you ring up and ask for a better deal.
Has it been a while? According to the ACCC, households on the same plan for three or more years pay on average $221 a year more than customers on new plans.
3. Check your usage
Your usage is shown in kilowatt hours (kWh). Look for:
- Total kWh for the period.
- Tariff type. A flat rate is one price all day. Time-of-use means peak, off-peak and sometimes shoulder rates.
- Solar feed-in, if you have panels. That's what you're paid for power you send back.
4. Check the two main charges
- Usage rate: cents per kWh you use.
- Daily supply charge: a flat amount every day, whether you use power or not.
A cheap usage rate with a high supply charge can still cost you more. That's why you compare the total yearly cost, not one line.
5. Look for discounts and conditions
Some discounts only apply if you pay on time or by direct debit. Others end after a set period. Check the fine print for an end date and any exit fees.
6. Compare against the benchmark
The government sets a Default Market Offer each year. For 2026–27 it ranges from $1,899 to $2,604 a year depending on your network (for example, Ausgrid is $1,899), according to the AER. If you're paying well above that for similar usage, it's worth asking why.
What next?
- Ask your retailer for their best offer. The ACCC found households could save an average of $291 just by moving to their retailer's best offer. Here are scripts that work.
- Picking a new plan? Here's how to choose one fast.
- Want a rough idea of what loyalty is costing you? Try the loyalty tax calculator.
Or skip the homework and send it to us.
Sources
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