Understand The Cheapest Electricity Perth [2025 Update]

The Overview of the Electricity Market in WA

Western Australia is Australia's largest state but also one of the least populated, which presents a unique set of challenges for electricity supply. Western Australia has vast distances to cover for electricity suppliers and needs to build durable electricity infrastructure. 

As a result, Western Australia's electricity market is divided into multiple regions, each with its own set of regulations and electricity suppliers. These regions include:

• Kimberley Region
• South West Interconnected System
• Pilbara Region
• Gascoyne and Central West Regions
• Goldfields-Esperance Region

The South West Interconnected System (commonly referred to as SWIS) is critical to Western Australia's electricity infrastructure. Operated by Western Power (a company owned by the Western Australian government), SWIS covers the most densely populated areas of the state, stretching from the southwest coast to just north of Kalbarri. If you live within this network, your choice of electricity supplier may be limited, depending on factors such as your annual electricity consumption.

The Western Australian government plays a vital role in regulating the electricity market for indisputable customers. Unlike other states where electricity market prices are mainly unregulated, Western Australia maintains a regulated market to ensure uniform prices and quality of service.

Regulation by the Western Australian Government is critical for consumers within the South West Interconnected System (SWIS) as most non-contested customers reside within the system. The Western Australian Government's pricing in the electricity market for non-contested customers ensures that all consumers pay the same electricity price regardless of where they are located within the SWIS. Government involvement in pricing helps mitigate the impact of electricity market volatility and keeps electricity prices relatively stable. 

Cheapest Electricity in Perth: Synergy

Synergy is the largest electricity supplier in Perth and provides electricity to over a million people in Western Australia. Perth residents, please read the following carefully before choosing an electricity plan to understand the most cost-effective strategy.

Synergy's Different Electricity Prices

Synergy generally offers customers two main pricing plans: "Single Price" or "Flexible Price." However, Synergy also has a pricing method called "Comprehensive Price." Therefore, Perth residents can choose from three basic types of electricity prices.

Single Rate Electricity Price

Under the single-rate electricity price, customers must pay a daily supply fee and then a fee for each kilowatt-hour. Customers only pay a fixed price for electricity regardless of what time of day or how much electricity they use.

The benefit of the single-rate electricity price is that customers only pay a single rate for electricity use. Therefore, this plan is best for households with relatively stable electricity use throughout the day and cannot shift the electricity use time to off-peak hours. 

However, for those with higher electricity demand during peak times (such as at night, when appliances such as washing machines and dishwashers are most used), there may be more cost-effective options than the single rate electricity price.

Time-of-Use Electricity Price

Synergy's "time-of-use" pricing is also a flexible pricing plan. Under this plan, customers pay a daily power supply fee and then pay different electricity prices based on their electricity use time. This pricing encourages customers to shift their energy use to off-peak hours when electricity is cheaper.

Time-of-use electricity pricing is divided into three time periods: peak hours, flat hours, and off-peak hours. Generally, Perth residents use electricity at peak times at night; the flat hours are between peak and off-peak hours, and the off-peak hours are at night and early morning. So, Perth residents who use time-of-use electricity pricing can save electricity bills by using appliances.

Combined Electricity Tariff

Perth residents who use the combined electricity tariff must pay a daily power supply and usage fees at a tiered rate. The combined electricity tariff also means that Perth residents pay different costs based on the units of electricity used. So, the combined electricity tariff applies to people who live and operate at the same address.

Synergy's Cheapest Electricity Plan

If your electricity usage is steady and relatively low throughout the day, a single-rate plan may be the most cost-effective option. 

On the other hand, if you have a more flexible schedule that allows you to shift your electricity usage to off-peak times, a flexible pricing plan may reduce your electricity bills. So, which is the cheapest electricity in Perth?

Synergy Home Plan (A1)

The Synergy Home Plan (A1) electricity tariff offers a simple and affordable pricing structure and is famous for Perth residents. Its electricity bill consists mainly of a fixed daily supply charge and a consistent rate for electricity usage, both of which are subject to GST (Goods and Services Tax).

The daily supply charge for the Synergy Home Plan (A1) is 110.4600 cents. 

The daily supply charge covers the cost of maintaining the infrastructure and delivering electricity to your home. While the daily supply charge may seem high, especially for those who use very little electricity, it is offset by the low electricity bill.

The Synergy Home Plan (A1) electricity rate is 30.8120 cents per unit, which is the amount you will be charged for each kilowatt-hour (kWh) of electricity you use. This usage rate remains the same regardless of the time of day you use electricity.

The Synergy Home Plan (A1) rate schedule is as follows:

Source: Synergy website, April 2024.

The Synergy Home Plan (A1) pricing structure makes the Home Plan (A1) tariff an ideal choice for those who use electricity throughout the day.

Synergy Midday Saver Tariff

The Synergy Midday Saver Tariff provides flexible electricity prices to households in Perth and surrounding areas through "time-of-use electricity prices". Regardless of how much electricity you use, the daily supply cost of the Synergy Midday Saver Tariff remains the same. 

The daily supply cost covers maintaining the grid and delivering electricity to your home. The Synergy Midday Saver Tariff offers three different electricity consumption rates, with the Peak Rate being the most expensive, followed by the Off-Peak Rate, and then the Super Off-Peak Rate.

• Peak usage is between 3 pm and 9 pm every day.
• The Off-Peak Rate applies between 9 pm and 9 am every day.
• Super Off-Peak rates apply between 9 am and 3 pm every day.

Peak Rates

Peak rates are the most expensive and apply to electricity used during peak hours. These hours are usually evenings when most households use appliances and lights. Rather than having a standard peak rate throughout the day, the Peak rate only applies between 7 am and 9 pm on weekdays.

Off-Peak Rates

Off-peak rates apply between 9 pm and 7 am on weekdays and all day on weekends and public holidays. Since most households don't use much electricity during off-peak hours, it makes sense to charge a lower rate.

Super Off-Peak Rates

The Super Off-Peak rate is the cheapest of the Synergy Midday Saver Tariff rates and only applies between 10 am and 3 pm on weekdays. Super Off-Peak is when most households are at work or school during these hours, and the electricity demand is lower.

The Synergy Midday Saver Tariff schedule is as follows:

Source: Synergy website, April 2024.

The Synergy Midday Saver Tariff saves households money by transferring their energy usage to off-peak times. It has proven to be an effective way for households to reduce their electricity bills while also reducing the load on the grid during peak times. However, households must install a smart meter to use the Synergy Midday Saver Tariff.

Do You Have to Use Synergy for Electricity in Perth? 

Due to how energy is regulated in Western Australia, most residents need help choosing their electricity supplier. So many people wonder if Synergy is Perth's only electricity supplier.

Many people believe Synergy is the only electricity supplier in Perth. So, are there other electricity suppliers in Perth besides Synergy?

The answer is yes. Besides Synergy, more electricity suppliers can provide electricity in Western Australia. You can only become a "disputable customer" with a choice if you run a business and need to spend more than $15,000 per year or use more than 50,000 kWh per year.

If you are a non-disputable customer, it is best not to rush to the conclusion that "no choice is bad" because it is good for you. Non-disputable customers can enjoy electricity prices regulated and subsidised by the Western Australian government.

Why Contestable VS Non-Contestable Matters for Electricity Suppliers in Perth?

Your status determines your options for choosing an electricity supplier and, therefore, the rate you will pay. Commercial electricity users in Western Australia fall into two specific categories: contestable customers and non-contestable customers. 

Contestable customers are free to choose from a variety of available electricity suppliers. In contrast, commercial electricity consumers who are non-contestable customers are limited to Synergy.

Contestable Customers

Contestable customers are users within the South West Interconnected System (SWIS) who use more than 50,000 kWh of electricity annually. Contestable customers can discuss their prices with their preferred retailer and negotiate contracts and terms.

For contestable customers, the following electricity suppliers in Perth may offer plan choices:

Non-Contestable Customers

Non-contestable customers are electricity users within the South West Interconnected System (SWIS) who use less than or equal to 50,000 kWh per year or pay less than $15,000 annually. Residential households and small businesses are generally non-contestable customers. So, almost any resident of Perth is likely to be a non-contestable customer.

The Western Australian government sets electricity prices for these non-contestable customers. As a government-regulated entity, Synergy is responsible for supplying electricity at these prices. This ensures that Synergy's customers are not subject to price increases based on fluctuations in the electricity market.  

Jackery Solar Generators for Saving Electricity

Perth residents are always looking for affordable electricity plans to combat rising energy costs. While comparing tariffs and usage rates is essential, reducing reliance on the grid is another way to save money. There are many ways to control electricity usage; choosing a generator could be another way to lower your utility consumption.

Jackery Solar Generators are an economical and environmentally friendly solution for charging household appliances and devices with solar energy. By incorporating Jackery's renewable energy products into your daily routine, you can benefit from increased savings and energy independence while helping create a sustainable future.

The Sun can charge the Jackery Solar Generators quickly, which can fully power the Jackery Portable Power Stations in just a few hours. The Jackery Solar Panels are made of monocrystalline silicon solar cells and have an industry-leading efficiency rate of 25%, which makes quick charging possible. You can also charge the power stations with car chargers or wall outlets for added convenience. Here, we recommend Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus and 1000 Plus to charge your appliances with expandable capacities.         

Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus

The Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus easily adjusts to any circumstance. With a 2 to 12 kWh expandable capacity, this generator offers customised solutions for a solo apartment or four-bedroom house. This solar generator is designed for longevity and reliability and is built with a LiFePO4 battery that boasts a 10-year lifespan and 4,000 charging cycles. Check how this generator helps to save utility electricity bills:

- 2 kWh: The Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus 2kWh kit is suitable for a solo apartment. It can save you electricity bills by charging your TV, computer, coffee maker, and more. On sunny days, you can put it under the ground to recharge it without cost.

- 4 kWh: Considering the Solar Generator 2000 Plus 4kWh kit, it is ideal for two or three people's houses. It can help people working from home charge their computers and printers. At the same time, if your family is in the kitchen, it can also help charge kitchen appliances, such as your kettle, air fryer, or bread maker.

- 12 kWh: 12 kWh is a relatively higher capacity for electricity for a four-bedroom home. The normal A1 electricity price for residential buildings as of July 2024 consists of a supply charge of 113.22 cents daily and an electricity charge of 31.5823 cents per unit. So, 12 kWh will cost much more, but if you use 2000 Plus, you will save a lot by charging appliances with solar energy.

If you worry about the rainy days, the Explorer 2000 Plus can be recharged by your wall outlets or carports. Furthermore, the rolling wheels and handle design make it easier to carry. The whisper-noise and superior battery protection allow it to be used safely at home.

Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2

The Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2 has an impressive 1500W output, 50% greater than earlier models. It efficiently powers high-consumption devices such as refrigerators, kettles, and portable air conditioners. Equipped with USB-A/C connections and dual PD charging of up to 100W, it can simultaneously charge several devices (phone, laptop), rendering it the ideal companion for all your power requirements.

- Rapid Charging: The Emergency Charge Mode, activated via the app, enables the Explorer 1000 v2 Portable Power Station to achieve a full charge in under one hour, providing essential power backup when the battery is depleted. Moreover, charging from 0% to 100% within two hours via an AC wall outlet prolongs battery longevity.

- Ideal Backup Power: With the Jackery 1000 v2, you can be equipped for any emergency. During Jemena power outages, you can keep vital devices such as your phone, radio, or medical equipment operational. The Jackery 1000 V2, with its substantial capacity and several output possibilities, offers reassurance, enabling you to manage unforeseen circumstances effortlessly.

- Lighter & Smaller: The Explorer 1000 v2, weighing 23.8 pounds and 18% smaller than its predecessor, is more lightweight and portable than conventional devices. It includes a compact, collapsible handle for convenient transport. This powerhouse conveniently fits into the back compartment for storage, ensuring you are always prepared and never lack power.

The Future of Electricity Suppliers in Perth

What the future holds for Perth's electricity suppliers is worth pondering. While Western Australia's electricity market is currently heavily regulated, especially in Perth, there has been debate about the possibility of further deregulation. 

If this were to happen, it could introduce more electricity suppliers to the market for competition, potentially driving down electricity prices and providing consumers with more choices. However, deregulating the electricity market is complex and requires careful consideration of its impact on Perth residents and electricity suppliers.

One of the most notable shifts in Australia's energy industry is the increasing focus on renewable energy sources. Western Australia has abundant natural resources and is an ideal location for renewable energy projects. So, a large portion of Perth's electricity will come from renewable energy in the future.  

Available Electricity Rebates and Concessions in Perth

When looking for the cheapest electricity in Perth, an essential factor is whether discounts or promotions are available. Therefore, Perth residents must research whether discounts and promotions are available when choosing a Perth electricity supplier.

Synergy New Customer Offers

When it comes to Synergy, new customers have a variety of discounts or promotions to save on their electricity bills. By taking advantage of the deals or promotions mentioned below, new Synergy customers can save a lot on their electricity bills.

Energy Assistance Payment

The Energy Assistance Payment is designed to help low-income households in Western Australia manage their electricity costs. It would help if you met the following qualifications to get the Energy Assistance Payment:

• You must be a Synergy customer.
• You must hold an eligible concession card, such as Centrelink Health Care Card, Pensioner Concession Card, etc.

Cheapest Electricity Perth FAQs

The following are the frequently asked questions about the cheapest electricity in Perth.

1. What makes Synergy so popular in Perth?

Synergy is the first choice for affordable, reliable energy in the Perth electricity market. Here are the reasons why Synergy is so prevalent in Perth:

Synergy offers the cheapest electricity rates in Perth.

Synergy's transparent pricing structure and easy-to-understand billing system make it a top choice for many customers.

Synergy focuses on providing customers with affordable and sustainable electricity plans.

Synergy also offers customers a range of discounts and incentives to further reduce consumers' electricity costs.

Synergy continuously invests in renewable energy and sustainable practices to ensure a greener future for Perth.

2. Is Synergy's electricity price high in the Australian electricity market?

Synergy's electricity prices are consistently lower than its competitors, making it a popular choice for many households and businesses. According to recent data, Synergy offers the cheapest electricity prices in Perth compared to other electricity suppliers in the Australian electricity market.

3. Is it worth choosing a TOU tariff in Perth?

If you can shift the majority of your daily electricity needs to off-peak times, TOU tariffs can save you some money. However, many people will likely be able to spend all their electricity during off-peak hours. Most people would need to reduce their peak electricity usage to less than 20% of their total consumption, which is unrealistic. Customers considering a TOU tariff should fully understand their electricity needs and carefully consider how their usage habits will change.

4. Are there any additional charges for Perth residents using Synergy's electricity plan?

When choosing an electricity plan with Synergy, there are generally the following additional charges that need to be paid:

Connection Fee: Perth residents who use Synergy's electricity plan may need to pay a one-off connection fee, which covers the cost of installing the electricity connection at the customer's location. Disconnection and reconnection fees exist if the customer moves to a new address.

Government Charges: Perth residents who choose to use Synergy's electricity plan should also be aware of additional government charges, such as Renewable Energy Target (RET) charges.

Other Charges: Synergy may also charge customers for meter readings.

Final Thoughts

With rising electricity prices, Perth residents must find the most affordable energy options. Fortunately, Synergy offers the cheapest electricity prices. With its commitment to renewable energy, competitive pricing, and customer-centric approach, Synergy is undoubtedly one of the best choices for those seeking the cheapest electricity in Perth.