Electricity Cost Comparison Calculator
Compare two electricity tariffs using your own usage, base fees, and energy rates to find the cheaper plan.
Last updated: How it is calculated
Tariff Inputs
Tariff A
Tariff B
Cheaper for 3,500 kWh a year
Tariff A
saves $13.10 a year · $1.09 a month
| Tariff A✓ | Tariff B | |
|---|---|---|
| First year, credit includedsign-up credit deducted | $765.40 | $678.50 |
| From year two | $765.40 | $778.50 |
| Per month, ongoing | $63.78 | $64.88 |
| Standing charge a year | $120.00 | $180.00 |
| Energy a year | $645.40 | $598.50 |
Break-even usage: 4,478 kWh a year. Above that the tariff with the higher standing charge wins.
The credit alone decides the first year. From year two the other tariff is cheaper again.
A one-off credit. Kept out of the ongoing cost on purpose — a bonus is paid once, and folding it into "the annual cost" makes a switch look permanently cheaper than it is.
Cost comparison details
How it is calculated
Formula
Annual cost = standing charge × 12 + annual consumption × unit rate Break-even usage = difference in standing charges ÷ difference in unit rates
What this calculator does not account for
- A sign-up credit is shown separately: once for year one, once for the years after. Folding it into the annual cost makes a switch look permanently cheaper than it is.
- Price guarantees, notice periods and contract terms are not weighed.
- Mid-year price changes are not projected.
About This Calculator
This electricity cost comparison calculator helps you compare two tariffs using your own annual kWh usage, monthly base fees, and price per kWh. It shows annual and monthly totals, savings potential, and estimated break-even consumption.
How to Use This Calculator
- 1
Enter your expected annual electricity consumption in kWh based on recent bills.
- 2
Add tariff A values: monthly base fee and energy price per kWh.
- 3
Add tariff B values with the same structure for a fair comparison.
- 4
Review annual and monthly totals, cheaper tariff, and optional break-even usage.
Why Use This Calculator
Direct Tariff Comparison
Compare two real tariff offers side by side with the same usage assumptions for a clear decision.
Savings Visibility
See monthly and annual savings immediately so you can estimate the impact of switching.
No External Data Needed
Use values from your own bill or provider offer sheet, so results stay relevant without market feeds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Use the same annual consumption for both tariffs and include both base fee and energy price. Comparing only the kWh price can be misleading when base fees differ.
Both are listed on your current bill and provider tariff sheets. Use gross values that match your actual invoice format.
Break-even usage is the annual kWh level where both tariffs cost the same. Above or below that level, one tariff becomes cheaper.
This version compares fixed average tariff inputs. For dynamic hourly plans, you need a separate profile-based calculation.
Recheck when your annual usage changes materially or when your contract ends and new tariff offers are available.
Use the price format from your bill. For consumer planning, gross values are usually better because they reflect your real payment.
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Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates for planning purposes only. Actual costs may vary based on your circumstances, location, and market conditions. Not financial advice. See our Terms of Service for full disclaimers.