State Rates Tariff Change
State Rates Tariff Change
Who sets my meter tariff type?
Your tariff type is generally determined based on the metering configuration and the network arrangements applicable to your property. In most cases, this is influenced by your local electricity distributor (the company responsible for the poles and wires in your area). At times, tariff structures can be updated due to changes in metering setup, network requirements, or other operational considerations.
We usually align your energy plan with the tariff type assigned to your meter – for example, customers on a single-rate tariff are usually placed on a single-rate plan, while those on a demand or time-of-use tariff are typically billed on a time-of-use plan.
Why has my tariff changed?
Tariff types can sometimes change due to updates in metering arrangements, network requirements, or broader industry developments. Although such changes are not common, they do occur from time to time across the electricity market.
There are three common types of tariffs:
Time-based tariff: where rates differ depending on the time of day.
Demand tariff: where charges are influenced by your highest moment of usage.
Volume-based tariff: where the same rate applies to each kWh regardless of when it is used.
Across the industry, tariff reforms are ongoing to ensure tariffs better reflect the cost of supplying electricity. This includes modernising older single-rate structures and supporting more cost-reflective pricing. These reforms align with the Australian Energy Regulator’s (AER) long-term strategic initiatives.
You can learn more about network tariff reform on the AER website. Network tariff reform | Australian Energy Regulator (aer.gov.au)
Learn more about tariffs here.
Will my new tariff be better for me?
This will depend on your tariff type and the way you use energy. Most residential meters in Australia used to be billed for power on a single tariff rate. That means you pay the same rate for power no matter what the time of day you use power. However, recently there has been a move away from this traditional tariff. For example, in NSW, QLD and SA single tariffs are being phased out and meters are being set up with different tariffs. This is because there are different ways to charge for power, and it is becoming increasing necessary reduce stress on the network during peak times.
The good news is that these new flexible tariffs give energy users opportunity to take advantage of the way the networks have incentivised consumers to shift energy use away from times when the grid is under strain. Tariffs with peak, shoulder, and off peak, rates mean you can access different rates depending on the time you use power. They often have cheaper rates in the off peak and shoulder times, and higher rates at peak times.
A demand tariff is based on your peak instantaneous usage. The idea behind this charge, is that consumers who cause a large strain on the infrastructure by using a large amount of power at one time should share the cost of maintaining the wires and poles more proportionally. If you use usage is extremely steady across the month, a demand tariff can save you money. If you use most of your power all at once in short instantaneous burst a demand tariff may cost you more, you can also be in a position where one short burst of high usage can cost you across the month. To better understand demand tariffs, read our page here.
How can I view my usage data?
You can track your usage in GloBird Energy’s ‘My Account’ portal. It is handy way for you to manage your GloBird Energy account online. Some of the features currently available are:
- Set up/Update direct debit details
- View your previous bills
- Check your payment history
- Pay your bills
- See your energy usage
- Download usage data
- Get help and support
My Account portal is designed to make it easier for you to keep track of your energy bills and update your energy accounts. Accessing your account for the first time is easy. Go to the GloBird Energy home page and click ‘My Account’ on the top right of the webpage. You will need to use the same email address that is on your energy account and enter your GloBird account number found on your bill.