Tariff Change Information
Tariff Change Information
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:
- Time-based tariff, this is where rates vary at certain times of the day or night
- Demand tariff, where you’re charged based on your peak instantaneous usage
- 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 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:
Network tariff reform | Australian Energy Regulator (aer.gov.au)
You can learn more about tariff types here.
Will my new tariff be better for me?
Your power charge depends on your tariff type. Most residential meters in Australia are 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, some meters are set up differently and have different tariffs. This is because there are different ways to charge for power.
Understanding the way you use your power is important, and will help you decide the best tariff for you. A flat rate might be easy to understand, but it cannot incentivise you to shift your energy use away from times the grid is under strain. Tariffs with peak 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 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 energy relatively steadily 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.
Can I change to another tariff?
The tariffs that are available to you are set by the distributor and not by the retailer (GloBird). This means some tariffs may be available and some may not. However, let us know if you need advice choosing the most cost-effective tariff for you, we are happy to help. Call GloBird Energy on 13 3456
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.