Compare coverage, plans, pricing, and features to choose the right electricity provider for your home
Moving into a new place? Or just tired of those power bills creeping up? Finding a better energy deal might save you money and stress. In Australia, Red Energy and Ergon Energy are two names you'll often hear. But which one is right for you?
Let's break it down in plain English. We'll look at where they work, what they offer, and what makes them different. Keep reading, and by the end, you'll know which one fits your home best.
This one's owned by Snowy Hydro. It's 100% Aussie-owned and serves electricity and gas in several states. Customers like them for rewards, green power, and helpful service.
This one's run by the Queensland Government. You'll find them mostly in country areas and remote Queensland towns. Unlike Red, they're not in a competitive market.
They serve these areas:
They don't work in areas where Ergon runs the show.
They're only in:
If you're in these zones, Ergon Energy is pretty much your only electricity provider. You can't move to Red Energy if they don't operate there.
They've got a few good ones. No contracts. Easy to leave. Perks like discounts and rewards.
They keep it simple. One standard offer. No frills, bundles, or loyalty programs.
Rates are set by the market. Sometimes cheaper, sometimes not. But they often come with rewards or flexible extras.
Example in VIC:
• Daily supply: ~$1.05/day
• Usage: ~25c/kWh
Fixed by the QCA. No competition, so prices stay steady. But that also means fewer deals.
Example in QLD (Tariff 11):
• Daily supply: ~$1.09/day
• Usage: ~25.56c/kWh
💡 Always check exact rates for your address.
They're proud of their green plans. The Living Energy Saver has 100% accredited GreenPower. So you're helping clean energy grow in Australia.
They offer GreenPower too, but it's not built into the plans. You'll need to pay extra to add it on.
Red's app feels more modern and user-friendly.
Ergon's works, but it's basic.
Customers love the support. It's based in Melbourne, and staff are friendly and quick to help.
They're known to be helpful, especially in country areas. But wait times can be longer. Less flexibility overall, but reliable.
| Feature | Red Energy | Ergon Energy |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership | Snowy Hydro | Queensland Government |
| Areas Covered | VIC, NSW, SA, SE QLD | Regional Queensland only |
| Electricity Plans | Multiple, flexible | One standard plan |
| Green Options | Built-in 100% GreenPower | Optional add-on |
| Gas Plans | Yes, in some states | No |
| Rewards | Qantas points, discounts | None |
| Mobile App | Full features | Basic tools |
| Contract Type | No lock-in | Fixed |
| Pricing Type | Market-based | Regulated by QCA |
Both Red Energy and Ergon Energy serve very different customers. If you've got a choice and you're after perks, green power, or flexible contracts, Red Energy is worth a look. But if you're in regional Queensland, Ergon Energ is steady and dependable.
Before you sign up, take a minute to compare real-time rates. Use comparison tools online. It might save you a decent chunk over time.
Only if you live in an area where Red Energy is available. Most regional Queensland homes can't switch.
Yes, but only in certain states like VIC and NSW.
Not always. Ergon's prices are regulated, so they don't change often. Red's prices depend on the market and might be cheaper or more expensive.
Yes. You can earn Qantas Points and enjoy billing discounts.
If you care about clean energy, it's a great choice. It does cost a bit more, though.