You know that feeling when you enter your account number in the bill payment portal and the amount feels like a fortune.
Boarding a lunch cruise in Sydney seems cheaper than that. So you shrug, assume it’s the weather, and hope that the number will dip in the following month. But if that doesn’t happen and if the weather isn’t the reason behind the skyrocketing bills, it could be your plan itself. Let’s unpack when is the right time to review your energy plan so you don’t get stuck in this money trap.
Why Timing Matters More Than You Think
Energy prices are like those beach waves. Sometimes steady, sometimes unpredictable. Depending on wholesale costs, policy changes, and competition, providers like AGL Energy adjust plan rates. And with the rates, your life changes too. The plan that seemed like a wonder deal a couple of years ago can now start draining your wallet.
Signs That It’s Time for a Review
That headline about “energy rate rise” should be the driving force for you to recheck your plan. If you’re seeing these signs, there’s time for a refresh:
| Sign | What it means | What you can do |
| Your bill looks suspiciously higher | Rates may have increased, or discounts may have expired | Compare your rate with other plans |
| You’ve moved house | Usage and local tariffs differ | Check for plans suited to your new area |
| You’ve added solar panels | You could be missing out on a better feed-in tariff | Review solar-friendly plans |
| You’ve bought new appliances | The energy consumption pattern has changed | See if time-of-use rates suit you better |
| Your plan’s discount period ended | You’re likely paying standard rates | Negotiate or switch providers |
Dealing with any of these? Then it’s time for a quick plan health check.
The Ideal Time to Review Your Energy Plan
An energy plan review doesn’t mean you should obsess over it every month. Checking the plan at the right intervals is enough to keep you ahead of the game.
Every 12 Months
The discounts and incentives that energy plans come with often last for only a year. Once they’re gone, you’ll be left with a surprisingly higher amount than you ever expected. A quick annual review keeps things in check and lets you renegotiate or just switch before the rates shoot up.
Before Winter or Summer
Extreme seasons, be it summer or winter, take a toll on your HVAC appliances. When these appliances strain, your budget drains. Review your plan before the high-usage months to be ready for the high demand, and you won’t end up sweating over a shocking bill.
When Energy Providers Change Rates
Most providers adjust prices mid-year. When you hear about industry-wide price reviews, take it as your cue to reassess.
After Major Life Changes
Moved in with a partner? Started working from home? Your energy-consuming habits will change with these decisions. So, a plan review is the best thing you can do to keep the costs in check.
How to Make Reviewing Easy
Reviewing your energy plan doesn’t have to be a technical nightmare. Just stick to the following steps, and you can do it with ease:
- Gather your last two bills: Check what your average is, including daily usage, peak hours, and total spend.
- Use an energy comparison site: Compare your deals based on your actual usage data, not estimates.
- Check the fine print: Check for any hidden fees or time-limited discounts.
- Ask your current provider for a better deal: If you’re a loyal customer, there is a chance that your provider will give you a good deal. Just ask.
- Switch smartly: There shouldn’t be any exit fees or connection delays.
It might look like an exhausting chore that takes an entire day. But in reality, that’s just a half-hour task that can save hundreds of dollars annually.
Creative Ways to Stay on Top
Turn this into a small habit. Choose a day in a year that works for you. The first cool day of autumn or your birthday month. Whatever works for you. Grab your coffee, open your laptop, and follow the checklist shared above. This small routine will turn you into a savvy energy user.
The Final Spark
The truth is, there’s no energy plan that’s so amazing that you can stick to it forever. Like everything else, change is (and should be) the only constant. Staying curious and proactive works in your favour most of the time. That way, you know if you’re getting the best deal.
Treat your energy plans as subscriptions. Review, upgrade, cancel, and repeat to maximise savings.
