When it comes to the cost of living in the Central Coast district of New South Wales, one significant factor for residents is the price of electricity. Energy bills are a considerable part of household budgets, with homeowners and renters alike feeling the impact of fluctuating energy prices.
Recent findings have indicated that the average quarterly electricity bill sets Australian households back by a substantial amount, as electricity and gas are central to day-to-day comfort and necessities.
It can feel frustrating to watch government price caps continue to rise, but there are areas where homeowners can take control and see some positive differences in how much money they spend on electricity.
While energy bills vary from state to state, checking on average consumption and electricity prices, including specific data for the Central Coast, provides a benchmark so that residents can make informed decisions about how they use power and who they choose as their service provider.
The table here shows the average daily usage of electricity for the central coast compared to surrounding LGAs:
| Area | Daily average kWh | Yearly average |
| National Average | 18 | 6,570 |
| Sydney LGAs | 14.9 | 5,450 |
| Central Coast | 16.5 | 6,000 |
| Cessnock | 18 | 6,570 |
| Lake Macquarie | 16.9 | 6,200 |
| Maitland | 16.8 | 6,100 |
| Muswellbrook | 20.2 | 7,400 |
| Newcastle | 13.7 | 5,000 |
| Port Stephens | 16.9 | 6,200 |
| Singleton | 21.5 | 7,850 |
| Upper Hunter | 20.1 | 7,300 |
This data has been taken from the Ausgrid Report along with national average data from CSIRO.
Across Australia, the average quarterly electricity bill is around $411. In general, energy bills on the Central Coast follow this national trend, but factors such as the choice of energy provider and usage habits can result in variations. Additionally, energy prices can change over time due to fluctuations in the market and government policies as well as increased energy demands and usage over summer and winter.
It’s not uncommon for Australians to review their power costs, looking to understand how their bills compare to the average and seeking ways to reduce their expenses.
Keeping a close eye on energy consumption and pricing can empower homeowners to manage their finances effectively. Individuals and families can explore strategies for energy efficiency and consider switching providers to keep their bills within a manageable range. To make this worthwhile, you’ll need to understand how energy prices work and where you can see savings for your unique household.
Average Electricity Usage
The Central Coast region of Australia has its own patterns of electricity usage and associated costs. Based on available information, the average electricity bill in Australia is around $1,645 per year.
Based on medium-usage customers with a 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home, Selectra Reports provides the following data:
| State | Average Yearly Electricity Bill | Comparison to National Average |
| Brisbane, South-East Queensland | $1,226 | 25% Lower |
| Sydney, New South Wales | $1,253 | 24% Lower |
| Melbourne, Victoria | $1,290 | 22% Lower |
| National Average | $1,645 | National Average |
| Adelaide, South Australia | $1,742 | 6% Higher |
| Perth, Western Australia | $1,992 | 21% Higher |
| Canberra, Australia Capital Territory | $2,004 | 22% Higher |
| Hobart, Tasmania | $2,004 | 22% Higher |
Even within the Central Coast district, household electricity usage can vary widely.
Household size is a contributing factor to the amount of energy consumed. A single-person household generally uses less electricity compared to a larger family home.
It makes sense that the larger your household, the larger your electricity bill will be. More people in a house usually means:
- A larger house with more rooms (more spaces to heat and cool)
- More devices are connected and plugged in at any one time (more energy consumption)
- More hot water used (if you have an electric water heater)
- More people in different rooms with the lights on
- More cooking, more opening of the refrigerator, etc.
- It’s harder to take advantage of peak & off-peak electricity times
In the table below, taken from Canstar Blue December 2022, you can see the average annual electricity bill for each size household, and the breakdown of cost per person.
| People in Household | Average Annual Electricity Bill | Electricity Cost Per Person |
| 1 | $932 | $932 / person |
| 2 | $1,136 | $568 / person |
| 3 | $1,344 | $448 / person |
| 4 | $1,516 | $379 / person |
| 5 | $1,596 | $319 / person |
It’s important for residents to be aware of their average usage to ascertain if their electricity consumption aligns with regional benchmarks. Those above the average might explore energy-saving measures. Conversely, households with lower than average consumption are likely managing their energy use efficiently.
Electricity Costs
When comparing electricity prices in the Central Coast, it’s essential to take into account the supply and usage charges, as well as the applicable tariff and energy plan.
The daily supply charge reflects the cost of delivering power to residences, which is consistent irrespective of actual energy usage. This charge, along with the chosen tariff, affects the overall electricity costs on the Central Coast.
Residents have the opportunity to select from a variety of electricity providers due to the competitive nature of the energy market. Plans known as market offers may present lower rates or discounts, but residents should be cautious of rates reverting to standard offers at the contract’s end. Negotiating a better tariff could be advantageous and is strongly recommended.
While many of the providers are the same as Sydney and surrounds, Central Coast also includes unique ones like plans from Arc Energy Group and the Red Energy Red BCNA Saver. The range is from $980.00 to $2,390.00, similar to Sydney but with different specific offerings.
Households benefit from examining plans with tiered energy rates and discounts that could result in significant savings. Electricity bills comprise two main components:
- Supply charges: Fixed daily costs for maintaining the network.
- Usage charges: Costs based on the amount of electricity used, calculated per kilowatt-hour.
If available, residents can choose between different tariffs.
- Single rate: Charges remain constant, unaffected by time.
- Time of use: Charges vary; higher during peak demand, lower during off-peak hours.
- Controlled load: Offers reduced rates for household appliances during off-peak periods, ideal for high-energy appliances needing overnight use.
Switching providers can incur fees, so it’s important to consider these potential costs before making a decision.
Overall, electricity in the Central Coast is distributed by Ausgrid, while Jemena Gas Networks manages the transport and delivery of gas, ensuring that homes remain powered efficiently.
Tips for Reducing Your Bills
The cost of electricity is a significant household expense, but there are effective strategies to reduce these bills. For professional advice on how to make these changes or others that may be more suited to your unique preferences talk to your local electricians, on the Central Coast.
Below are some practical steps homeowners can take to see a reduction in their energy costs.
Simple Changes at Home
Making small adjustments in daily habits can lead to savings on energy bills by preventing unnecessary energy consumption.
- Turn off appliances at the powerpoint when they’re not in use.
- Use curtains to insulate rooms in both winter and summer months, reducing reliance on heating and cooling systems.
- Consider off-peak energy use for larger appliances like washing machines and dishwashers, which can lower energy charges during these periods.
Energy-Efficient Devices
Investing in energy-efficient devices is a surefire way to decrease power consumption.
- Replace old light bulbs with LED alternatives providing longer lifespans and lower energy use.
- When upgrading appliances, selecting those with high energy-efficiency ratings is beneficial, as they use less electricity for the same level of performance.
- Having a solar system installed can contribute to significant savings, although it requires an initial investment, there are incentives that can help reduce costs.
Review and compare energy plans regularly to stay informed on discounts and more cost-effective solutions for your energy needs. It’s advisable to check if you’re on the best offer with your current provider or to explore the benefits of switching to a different plan or provider that might offer more competitive rates.
Residents might consider separate electricity and gas bills versus bundled services for additional savings. The choice depends on individual preference for convenience or cost-effectiveness.
Conclusion
The costs associated with power bills on the Central Coast reflect the broader pricing trends of energy in Australia. Householders have seen an average electricity bill of $1,645 annually, which can vary based on individual usage, the chosen power plan, and the energy provider involved.
When considering a new energy provider or power plan, individuals should consider both the usage rates and daily supply charges, as these can significantly affect the overall cost.
New South Wales tends to fall within the average range for energy expenses nationally. Keeping this information in mind can help Central Coast residents make informed decisions about their energy consumption, as well as evaluate their current power bill in the context of broader trends within Australia.
Engaging in energy-saving practices or investing in renewable solutions like solar panels may also help reduce long-term costs.
Within the Central Coast and across Australia, the conversation about electricity bills extends beyond just the numbers. While household budgets are a priority, there is also a growing awareness of the efficiency of energy consumption, the environmental impact, and a push towards sustainable energy sources.
By understanding these average costs, residents can make more informed decisions about reducing their bills, such as considering energy-efficient appliances or exploring solar power options that not only reduce annual expenses, but work to help a healthier planet and more energy-resilient community.