Smart Ways to Compare Energy Plans and Cut Your Power Bills in 2026
Published February 23, 2026
The energy sector can be quite confusing and overwhelming, particularly with the current talk of price regulation and market offers. However, there is a way to simplify the process and ensure that you get the best energy deals in your region, and that is where Utility Market comes in.
In Australia, there are energy pricing structures that have been established to ensure that consumers are protected, but current events have indicated that these structures are not working as well as they should. For example, electricity price caps such as the Default Market Offer and the Victorian Default Offer (VDO) were established as a safety net for consumers who did not take up market offers. The purpose of these caps was to ensure that consumers were protected while at the same time promoting competition among energy retailers, which would ultimately result in lower prices.
However, it is now apparent that the current structure has resulted in unforeseen consequences. The DMO and VDO are maximum prices that energy retailers are allowed to charge consumers on standing offers. While these prices act as a safety net, they also act as a guide for market offers.
Consequently, when these caps rise, market offers also tend to rise, making it difficult for customers to get better deals.
The problem at hand: Customers are paying more than they should
According to the Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC), more than 80% of Australian Competition & Consumer Commission over 80% of households in the National Electricity Market (NEM) are on tariffs that charge them more than they should. In fact, households with offers that are more than 12 months old may be paying an average of $238 per year more than those with newer offers.
The problem is that it may be complicated and time-consuming to get a better deal. In fact, customers may be required to put in a lot of effort to compare the different offers available.
The truth is that electricity retailers are supposed to communicate to you the best deals available. However, the communication may not always be clear, leaving customers wondering whether they are on the best deal available.
Making It a Breeze
With the number of retailers and deals on offer, it can be a daunting experience trying to find the best energy deal. This is where Utility Market comes in as the best option for anyone looking to compare energy plans in their region. We offer a simple platform where you can compare energy plans from different retailers, ensuring you get the best possible deal.
Embracing Utility Market means you don’t have to go through the trouble of comparing different websites or deciphering bill messages. Our comparison service considers all the important details, including price and service, to ensure you make an informed decision.
Whether you are from New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania, or Victoria, we have the best solutions for your region to ensure you get the best possible deal.
What is being done to protect consumers
Although the government has been trying to implement changes to the energy pricing system, it is evident that this will take time to be fully implemented. In 2026, a new pricing system is expected to make the market more transparent, aiming to give consumers the best possible prices while also maintaining a cap on standing offers in areas serviced by the DMO.
This new pricing system could involve removing competition allowances and further limiting what retailers can charge.
The government is trying to ensure that the energy market is more closely tied to the growth of renewable energy sources, such as solar panels and home batteries. This will result in consumers experiencing greater savings and more environmentally sustainable energy sources.
Simple steps to lower your energy bills
One of the simplest ways to begin saving money is by reaching out to Utility Market and informing them that you are thinking of changing suppliers. Many customers have successfully negotiated a better rate simply by making it known that they are thinking of switching.
Although energy suppliers are obligated to display the best rate available to you through notifications on your bill, these notifications are not always clear, which is why it is important to double-check and ensure that you are on the best rate.
If you are looking for a quick and easy way to compare energy rates, Utility Market has a simple comparison tool that enables you to compare all of the rates available in your area. Whether you have solar panels or not, our website is designed to help you find the most affordable and best energy rates for your home or business.
Call Utility Market for expert advice
If you are having trouble deciding where to begin or need help understanding your choices, do not be afraid to contact Utility Market. We are here and ready to offer you expert advice and help you through the process of finding the best energy plan for you.
Call Utility Market today and begin saving money on your energy bills with the best plan for your home!
