State Rates Tariff Change

Why has the distributor changed my tariff?

Your tariff is assigned by your local electricity distributor (the company responsible for the poles and wires in your area). Although it is uncommon, from time to time they may change the nature and structure of your tariff.

There are three main types of tariff:

1. Time-based tariff, this is where rates vary at certain times of the day or night
2. Demand tariff, where you’re charged based on your peak instantaneous usage
3. Volume-based tariff, where there is a flat rate always charged per kWh regardless of the time of day.

The National Electricity Rules require distributors to make their tariffs more accurately reflect the costs of serving customers (cost reflective). For example, transitioning single rate usage tariffs to reflect different peak, shoulder and off-peak times (time-of-use tariff). The Australian Energy Regulator(AER) considers network tariff reform to be a key priority in its Strategic Plan to ensure the grid remains sustainable long term. To read more about the AER strategic plan on tariff reform use this link: You can learn more about tariff types .

Network tariff reform | Australian Energy Regulator (aer.gov.au)

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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.