If you are responsible for managing costs, electricity is one of the easiest operating expenses to review because you can usually reduce it without changing your product or customer experience. The challenge is that business energy pricing is not always apples-to-apples. Rates, tariffs, demand charges and contract terms can change the outcome.
This guide explains how to compare electricity for business in Australia using your bill data, what to look for in quotes, and how Zembl helps you secure a better deal with minimal admin.
Why comparing business electricity still matters in 2026
Many businesses accept renewal offers from their incumbent retailer, or stay on a plan that was competitive years ago. In a volatile market, that can mean drifting onto higher rates or an unsuitable network tariff. Comparing regularly helps you:
- Reduce unit rates and total annual spend
- Avoid rolling onto non-competitive standing or default offers
- Check whether demand charges or time-of-use windows still suit your operations
- Align contract terms with budgeting, risk appetite and sustainability goals
How business electricity pricing works in Australia
A business electricity bill is typically made up of several components. When you compare offers, you should compare each component, not only the cents per kWh.
Energy charges (usage rates)
This is the variable charge based on your electricity consumption. It can be a single flat rate, or multiple rates depending on the time you use electricity.
Supply charges
A daily fixed charge that applies even if you use little or no electricity. For low-usage sites, supply charges can materially affect the final bill.
Network charges and tariffs
Network charges are set by your local distributor. The way they are applied depends on your network tariff, which is linked to your meter type and usage profile. Tariffs can change each year, and businesses can end up on an unsuitable tariff if their usage patterns shift.
Demand charges (common for larger sites)
Some tariffs include a demand charge based on your highest recorded demand in a time window, often measured in kW over a 15 or 30-minute interval. One short peak caused by equipment starting at the same time can increase costs for the entire billing period.
Other charges and pass-throughs
Depending on your contract, there may be market charges, metering charges, environmental certificate costs, or other pass-through items. The key is transparency in what is fixed and what can vary over the term.
What you need before you compare electricity plans
You will get better quotes and a more accurate comparison when you provide real usage and demand data. Aim to gather:
- Your last 12 months of bills (or at least 1 to 3 recent bills for a quick review)
- NMI (National Metering Identifier) and site address details
- Meter type: basic, smart or interval
- Peak demand and time-of-use breakdown if available
- Contract end date and any notice requirements
If you have multiple sites, include a list of all NMIs and addresses. Portfolio pricing can be meaningfully different from single-site pricing.
How to compare electricity offers for business step by step
1) Start with a bill-led comparison
A quote that is not based on your bill can be misleading. Your bill reveals your tariff, metering configuration, usage shape and demand peaks. Zembl starts by reviewing your current bill so the comparison reflects what you actually pay today.
2) Compare on total cost, not only the headline rate
A lower peak rate can still produce a higher bill if the supply charge is higher, or if the demand charge structure is different. A good comparison estimates annual cost using your historical data.
3) Check tariff fit and demand charge exposure
For many businesses, tariff selection has as much impact as the retailer rate. If your bill includes demand charges, it is worth assessing whether operational changes or a tariff review could reduce those charges. Zembl can support tariff analysis for suitable customers.
4) Assess contract length and risk
Common contract terms include 12, 24 and 36 months. Longer terms can provide budgeting certainty, but may reduce flexibility if your load profile changes or you plan to relocate. Consider:
- Early termination fees and move-out clauses
- Whether rates are fixed, variable, or include indexation
- Billing frequency and payment terms that suit your cash flow
5) Review metering and eligibility
Some tariffs and offers require an interval or smart meter. If you are on a basic meter, changing retailers is still possible, but tariff options can be limited. If an upgrade is needed, it is best to understand timelines and any potential fees first.
6) Consider renewable and emissions options
Many retailers offer GreenPower options or renewable-inclusive plans. For larger organisations, options can extend to corporate renewable strategies and carbon reporting support. If ESG requirements are important, factor these into your comparison rather than treating them as an afterthought.
Small business vs large business: what changes when you compare?
In Australia, the approach to comparing electricity can differ depending on your consumption and market classification.
- SME sites: typically simpler retail offers, fewer bespoke structures, and faster switching.
- C&I and large market sites: more complex pricing, higher impact from network tariffs and demand, and often benefit from a tender process.
If you are unsure which segment you fit into, your bill and annual consumption are a good starting point. Zembl can advise you on the most appropriate procurement pathway.
Common mistakes businesses make when comparing electricity
- Comparing on cents per kWh only: ignores supply charges, demand charges, and tariff structures.
- Renewing too late: reduces leverage and can result in being rolled onto a higher rate.
- Not checking the network tariff: an unsuitable tariff can erase savings from a better retailer rate.
- Ignoring operational changes: new equipment, extended hours, or solar can change what plan suits you.
- Not validating bills: billing errors and misapplied charges can go unnoticed for months.
How Zembl helps you compare business electricity
Zembl helps Australian businesses compare electricity plans quickly, with a process designed to reduce admin and improve outcomes.
- Free, no-obligation review: we assess your current bill and provide a clear comparison.
- Access to a retailer panel: we source options that match your state, meter type and usage profile.
- Tariff and demand considerations: where relevant, we look beyond the rate to the structure.
- Switching support: we handle paperwork and coordinate the move to your new plan.
- Ongoing help: for suitable customers, we can assist with renewals, bill validation and tariff reviews.
For a broader overview of business supply options, see our guide to electricity procurement for companies: Electricity for businesses.
Will switching disrupt my electricity supply?
In most cases, no. Switching retailers typically involves administrative changes only. Your physical supply and network distributor remain the same. The main factors that can affect timing are your current contract end date, notice period, and metering arrangements.
Practical ways to reduce your bill alongside switching
Comparing plans is the biggest lever, but you can also reduce cost by improving how and when you use electricity.
Reduce demand peaks
If demand charges apply, consider staggering start-up of large equipment, adjusting set points, or changing schedules for high-load processes. Hospitality and retail sites often benefit from analysing when HVAC, refrigeration and kitchen equipment overlap.
Shift usage to lower-cost times where possible
If you are on time-of-use pricing, shifting non-essential loads to shoulder or off-peak periods can reduce average cost per kWh.
Upgrade high impact equipment
LED upgrades, HVAC optimisation and controls can reduce consumption. For some sites, power factor correction and solar can also contribute, depending on load profile and operating hours.
Frequently asked questions
How often should a business compare electricity?
At minimum, review your contract 3 to 6 months before it ends. Many businesses also do an annual health check, especially if usage has changed or energy prices have moved materially.
Can small businesses negotiate electricity rates?
Some SME offers are standardised, but you can still compare multiple retailers and structures. For higher usage sites and multi-site portfolios, a tender or negotiated offer can be more effective.
What information do I need to get a business electricity quote?
Your NMI, site address, meter type, and a recent bill are usually sufficient to start. For a more accurate comparison, 12 months of bills or interval data is ideal.
When should I use an energy broker?
If your energy spend is material, you have multiple sites, you are exposed to demand charges, or you want support with tariff reviews and renewables, a broker can simplify procurement and help avoid common pricing traps. Learn more here: Do you need an energy broker?.
Can Zembl help specific industries?
Yes. We support a wide range of sectors. If you are in hospitality or retail, see: Energy solutions for retail and hospitality. For schools and community organisations, see: Energy solutions for education and community services.
Next step: get a free business electricity comparison
If you want to compare options quickly, Zembl can review your current bill and come back with competitive offers that suit how your business actually uses energy. Call 1300 957 721 or submit an enquiry and we will handle the rest.
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