What to Consider in an Energy Plan When Working from Home

Working from home (WFH) has become the new norm for many Aussies, offering flexibility, reduced commute times, and often a boost in productivity. But did you know that spending more time at home can significantly increase your electricity usage? From powering your computer and staying comfortable with heating or cooling to using lights and small appliances, your daily energy consumption can soar.  

The good news? Choosing the right energy plan can help you save money and reduce your environmental impact while working from home. This guide will walk you through the key factors to consider when selecting an energy plan, practical tips for reducing electricity usage, and how to compare electricity rates efficiently.  

If you're all set to optimise your energy usage, read on and discover how you can take control of your power bills at home.  

Note: This article provides general information only and does not constitute energy or financial advice. You should consider your own circumstances and consult relevant independent advice before making energy plan decisions. 

Why Your Energy Usage Spikes While Working from Home 

When you work in an office, your home’s daily energy consumption is typically limited to essentials like your fridge, standby appliances, and heating or cooling during non-working hours. Working remotely flips this pattern on its head, meaning: 

• Extended device usage: Running laptops, desktops, monitors, and printers throughout the day adds to your electricity bill.  
• Heating or cooling costs: Maintaining a comfortable home-office environment can account for a significant portion of your energy usage (heating and cooling can represent up to 40% of household energy costs).  
• Lighting expenses: Especially during darker winter mornings or evenings, keeping your home-office bright requires additional energy.  

Understanding where your energy goes is essential for minimising unnecessary costs. Tools like smart meters and detailed billing can help track your energy usage patterns and provide insights into optimising consumption. 

What to Look For in an Energy Plan When WFH 

Choosing the right energy plan starts with understanding your unique needs while working from home. Here's what to prioritise: 

1. Low Usage Rates 

Your energy bill is primarily made up of usage rates (charged per kilowatt-hour of electricity consumed) and a supply charge (a fixed fee for accessing electricity). For individuals working from home, low usage rates are key, as your consumption during work hours will likely increase. 

• Pro Tip: Get a sense of how much power you usually consume. If you have a smart meter, you can check your usage patterns to determine whether a plan with lower usage rates will lower your costs. 

2. Time-of-Use Tariffs vs Flat Rates 

Your billing structure matters. There are two primary options to consider: 

• Flat Rate Plans charge a consistent rate for electricity, no matter the time of day. 
• Time-of-Use (TOU) Tariffs offer varying prices depending on when you use power: 
• "Off-Peak" hours (typically late at night) are cheaper. 
• "Peak" times (evenings) and "Shoulder" times (daytime hours) are more expensive.  

If you concentrate most of your energy use during off-peak periods, a TOU tariff may save you money. However, for most WFH professionals consuming power during the day, a flat rate plan may offer greater predictability and savings. 

3. Green (Renewable) Energy Options 

For eco-conscious Australians, choosing a plan powered by renewable energy can reduce your carbon footprint. Many energy providers offer GreenPower options, allowing you to contribute to Australia’s clean energy initiatives while powering your home office sustainably. 

4. Bundled Offers 

Look for energy plans that bundle discounts or incentives, such as lower rates when signing onto both electricity and gas services with the same provider. Bundled plans can simplify billing and reduce costs. 

5. Flexible Plans Without Lock-In Contracts 

Since energy prices fluctuate, opting for a no-lock-in-contract plan ensures you can easily switch providers if rates or incentives change. This flexibility can save you money long-term. 

Energy-Saving Tips for Working from Home 

Aside from selecting the right plan, small behavioural changes can add up to big savings on your power bills. Here are actionable tips for keeping electricity costs under control: 

Set Up Your Home Office for Energy Efficiency 

• Use Energy-Saving Devices: Laptops consume up to 90% less power than desktop computers. Opt for energy-efficient monitors and printers, and check Energy Star Ratings when purchasing electronics. 
• Turn Off Standby Appliances: Many devices use electricity passively. Connect printers, monitors, and chargers to a power board, making it easy to switch everything off at the end of the workday.  
• Adjust Brightness Settings: Dial down screen brightness to save energy and reduce eye strain. 

Reduce Heating & Cooling Costs 

• Dress for the Weather: Layer up in winter or opt for breathable clothing in summer, minimising reliance on heating and cooling systems.  
• Target Temperature Zones: 
• Set heating between 18°-20°C and cooling between 24°-26°C for optimal energy efficiency. 
• Close Doors to unused rooms and only heat or cool the areas you’re actively using. 
• Invest in Insulation: Well-insulated homes stay cool in summer and warm in winter, cutting down energy usage. 

Optimise Lighting 

• Swap out traditional bulbs for LED lights, which use up to 75% less energy and last longer. If possible, rely on natural light by setting up your workspace near a window. 

Go Renewable 

• Install Solar Panels (if feasible): A home solar system can generate renewable energy and even reduce your reliance on energy providers. 

Track Your Usage 

Many energy providers allow you to see real-time usage. Platforms like Origin Energy and EnergyAustralia’s apps help you monitor daily consumption and pinpoint waste. 

The Benefits of Comparing Energy Plans 

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to energy plans. Conducting an electricity comparison helps ensure you’re getting the best deal that matches your energy consumption needs. 

How to Compare Plans Simply: 

Identify Usage Details: 

• Use your latest electricity bill to determine your average consumption over the past months. 
• Note peak vs off-peak usage if you’re considering a TOU plan.  

Rank Plan Options: 

• Compare usage rates, supply charges, and any additional discounts or incentives. 
• Look for transparent rate information and no hidden fees.  

Switch Seamlessly: 

• Avoid the hassle of negotiating termination fees. Most Australian energy retailers handle the switching process for you. 

You can use energy comparison tools like Electricity Provider to quickly scan and evaluate plans based on location, household size, and usage patterns. 

Why Your Choice of Energy Plan Matters  

Every Australian household faces unique circumstances, from varying daily schedules to specific climate needs. By carefully reviewing your energy habits and available options, you can save hundreds of dollars annually while aligning with sustainable living goals. 

Remember, staying proactive with your energy plan is just as important as saving energy itself. With a wide variety of rate structures, green energy options, and innovative apps available, now is the ideal time to compare electricity prices and ensure your plan works as hard as you do. 

Take Control of Your Energy Costs  

Don’t settle for an energy plan that doesn’t suit your working-from-home lifestyle. Start by comparing rates, examining your electricity usage, and choosing a plan tailored to your unique needs.  

You may consider using comparison tools such as to explore energy plans suited to your needs. Always review the full plan terms and compare offers from multiple sources.