ActewAGL vs Origin: Which energy provider is best for you?

When it comes to choosing an energy provider in Australia, two major players are ActewAGL and Origin Energy. Both providers offer electricity and gas plans, along with a variety of other services, but which one stands out as the best option for your home or business?

This article will compare ActewAGL and Origin Energy in terms of pricing, customer service, renewable energy options, and overall service reliability to help you make a more informed decision.

ActewAGL

ActewAGL is an energy retailer that has been a staple in the Australian market for years. Known for its solid reputation in Canberra and surrounding regions, ActewAGL provides electricity, gas, and renewable energy plans to homes and businesses.

While the company may not be as large as Origin, it offers competitive pricing and a more personalised customer service experience.

Strengths of ActewAGL

  • Local focus: ActewAGL is the go-to energy provider for those living in Canberra and surrounding areas. The company has deep ties to the region, offering customers reliable service and localised support.
  • Strong customer service: ActewAGL is praised for its high levels of customer care. Customers often report that the company offers timely assistance and tailored solutions for energy usage concerns.
  • Renewable energy options: ActewAGL offers customers the opportunity to choose renewable energy plans, with options to purchase carbon-neutral energy, helping eco-conscious customers reduce their environmental footprint.

Drawbacks of ActewAGL:

  • Limited availability: ActewAGL’s services are mainly available in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) and nearby regions. If you live outside of this area, ActewAGL won’t be a viable option for you.
  • Fewer plan options: ActewAGL has a more limited range of pricing plans compared to some larger providers, which may be a drawback for those seeking more flexible or competitive pricing.

Origin Energy

Origin Energy is one of Australia’s largest energy retailers, providing electricity, gas, and solar energy services across the country. With a broad customer base spanning major cities and regional areas, Origin Energy is known for its vast range of plans and nationwide coverage.

Strengths of Origin Energy:

  • Wide availability: Origin Energy operates in all states and territories, making it a great option for those living outside the ACT. Whether you're in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, or Perth, Origin has a presence across the country.
  • Variety of plans: Origin offers a comprehensive range of energy plans, allowing customers to select from variable, fixed, or green energy options. This flexibility makes it easier to find a plan that suits your energy consumption and budget.
  • Green energy options: Origin has made significant strides in promoting renewable energy, offering options like GreenPower, where customers can opt to purchase electricity generated from renewable sources, reducing their carbon footprint.
  • Rewards program: Origin also offers a loyalty rewards program for customers, which includes discounts, rewards, and exclusive offers. This can be a nice perk for long-term customers looking for additional benefits.

Drawbacks of Origin Energy:

  • Customer service complaints: While Origin Energy serves a vast customer base, it has faced occasional criticism for its customer service. Some customers have reported delays in response times or difficulty resolving issues efficiently.
  • Pricing: Origin’s pricing can be less competitive compared to smaller, regional providers. While the range of plans is vast, some customers may find that they’re paying more for energy compared to other retailers, particularly for non-loyalty customers or those not on specific plans.

Pricing and plans comparison: ActewAGL vs Origin Energy

Pricing is often one of the most important considerations when choosing an energy provider. Let’s compare how ActewAGL and Origin Energy stack up in terms of affordability and available plans.

  • ActewAGL pricing: ActewAGL offers competitive rates for electricity and gas services, particularly in the ACT and surrounding regions. While its pricing may not be the absolute cheapest, ActewAGL balances affordability with excellent customer service and renewable energy options. It's important to note that ActewAGL’s plans are often transparent, with no hidden fees.
  • Origin Energy pricing: As a nationwide provider, Origin Energy offers a wide range of plans at varying price points. Origin tends to offer more competitive rates for larger households and those who consume more energy. However, its plans might come with higher rates for customers who don’t opt for specific promotional or loyalty plans. Some users may find that the pricing is steeper compared to more regionally focused providers.

Renewable energy options: Eco-conscious choices with both providers

Both ActewAGL and Origin Energy offer options for customers interested in renewable energy, allowing them to reduce its environmental impact.

  • ActewAGL’s renewable energy: ActewAGL offers customers the chance to opt into renewable energy plans. ActewAGL even has carbon-neutral energy options for those who want to ensure their entire energy consumption is offset by renewable energy projects. This is a good choice for customers looking to reduce their carbon footprint.
  • Origin Energy’s GreenPower: Origin is known for its commitment to renewable energy. The company offers a GreenPower program where customers can choose to purchase renewable energy from accredited sources. For customers looking to go green, Origin’s GreenPower option provides an easy way to contribute to sustainability while still accessing reliable energy.

Customer service comparison: ActewAGL vs Origin Energy

Customer service can make a significant difference in your experience with an energy provider. Here’s how both ActewAGL and Origin measure up:

  • ActewAGL customer service: ActewAGL is praised for its personalised customer service. As a regional player, it’s known for providing tailored support and quick responses to customer queries. The company also provides online tools for account management, making it easier for customers to access information about their usage and billing.
  • Origin Energy customer service: Origin Energy is a much larger company, which sometimes means longer wait times and less personalised service. However, it has several support channels, including phone, email, and social media. Origin also offers an online portal and mobile app for managing your energy account.

Which provider is best for you?

Ultimately, the best energy provider depends on your location, needs, and preferences.

  • Choose ActewAGL if: You live in Canberra or the surrounding region and want a provider with a strong local presence, excellent customer service, and a focus on renewable energy. ActewAGL’s reliable service and community-focused approach make it a solid choice for those in its service area.
  • Choose Origin Energy if: You want a nationwide provider with a wide variety of plans, competitive pricing, and flexible options. Origin is a great choice for those who live outside the ACT, offering comprehensive service across Australia. The renewable energy options and loyalty rewards program add additional value for long-term customers.

Talk to Compare Energy

Both ActewAGL and Origin Energy offer valuable services, but each excels in different areas. ActewAGL is great for localised service and customer care, while Origin Energy stands out for its wide availability and extensive range of energy plans.

By considering your location, energy needs, and customer service preferences, you can make an informed decision between these two prominent Australian energy providers.

For more help comparing energy providers or finding the best plan for your home, call Compare Energy today at 1300 790 106. We can assist you in selecting the right energy provider to suit your needs.