Energy plans for seniors

As energy prices continue to fluctuate across Australia, it’s essential for seniors to understand the available support and energy-saving options.

While there is no specific energy plans tailored exclusively for seniors, numerous state-based energy concessions can help ease the financial burden.

This article provides a detailed look at how seniors in Australia can take advantage of these state-level concessions and energy-saving measures to reduce their energy costs.

Overview of energy concessions for seniors in Australia

Australia’s energy market is deregulated, which means that each state and territory has its own set of rules, regulations, and available concessions.

These programs are designed to assist vulnerable consumers, particularly seniors, with managing their electricity and gas bills. The government recognises that seniors often have fixed incomes and higher energy usage due to health or mobility issues, making these programs essential for financial stability.

Concessions and energy support for seniors by state

New South Wales (NSW)

In New South Wales, seniors can access the Energy Accounts Payment Assistance (EAPA) scheme, which provides a one-off payment to help with energy bills.

Eligible seniors can apply for the Low-Income Household Rebate, which reduces the cost of electricity. Those aged over 65 may qualify for these concessions, especially if they meet other eligibility criteria like receiving certain government benefits.

The NSW Seniors Energy Rebate helps eligible self-funded retirees pay their electricity bills.

The NSW Seniors Energy Rebate is $250 per household, per financial year, and you can apply for the rebate each financial year.

Eligible households can only receive one of these rebates in the same financial year, either:

  • NSW Seniors Energy Rebate or 
  • NSW Low Income Household rebate.

Note: The Commonwealth Government has announced that households will receive up to $300 towards their electricity bill in the 2024–25 financial year. Most customers will receive their payments in quarterly instalments. More information will be available soon.

The Medical Energy Rebate is another option for seniors with specific health conditions that require increased energy usage, such as medical equipment needing electricity.

Victoria

Seniors in Victoria can benefit from several concessions under the Energy Concession program. The Electricity Concession and Gas Concession are two significant benefits for pensioners and seniors on low incomes.

The state also offers the Medical Cooling and Heating Concession for seniors who need to regulate room temperatures for health reasons.

The Victorian Energy Saver Incentive (also known as the Vouchers Program) allows seniors to access discounts on energy-saving products, such as LED lights, energy-efficient appliances, and water-saving devices.

Queensland

In Queensland, seniors are eligible for the Pensioner Rate Subsidy Scheme, which provides discounts on electricity bills. The Queensland Energy and Water Concessions offer significant savings on both electricity and water costs for seniors who meet eligibility criteria. This includes those who receive the Age Pension or other qualifying government benefits.

For seniors with specific health needs, the Medical Cooling and Heating Electricity Concession offers further savings for those who need to manage their home temperature due to medical conditions.

South Australia

South Australian seniors can take advantage of the Cost of Living Concession, which helps reduce the cost of electricity and gas bills. In addition to this, the Energy Bill Assistance Scheme offers financial support to those facing difficulty in paying their energy bills.

The Medical Heating and Cooling Concession helps those who require extra energy for medical reasons.

The Seniors Energy Efficiency Program in South Australia also offers free or low-cost energy assessments and advice on how to make homes more energy-efficient, which can lead to long-term savings on utility bills.

Western Australia

Seniors in Western Australia can benefit from the Energy Assistance Payment, which provides a one-off yearly payment to help offset the cost of electricity bills. Additionally, Medical Cooling Concessions are available for those who need extra cooling or heating due to health conditions.

Western Australia also runs programs aimed at improving energy efficiency, and seniors can access resources that offer guidance on reducing energy consumption, further lowering household costs.

Tasmania

Tasmanian seniors can access the Electricity Concession, which provides discounts on electricity costs for eligible seniors.

The Energy Efficiency Assistance Program offers free home energy assessments, and seniors may qualify for additional rebates on the installation of energy-efficient appliances. These initiatives are designed to assist seniors in both reducing their energy usage and lowering their bills.

Australian Capital Territory (ACT)

In the ACT, the Energy and Water Concessions Scheme provides assistance to seniors who are receiving a government pension or other income support. This scheme helps reduce the cost of energy bills by providing discounts on both electricity and water charges.

For seniors with medical conditions requiring additional energy usage, the ACT also offers targeted assistance through the Medical Heating and Cooling Concession.

Northern Territory

Seniors in the Northern Territory can access the Power and Water Concession, which helps reduce the cost of electricity for pensioners and low-income households. The Health Assistance Electricity Scheme also provides financial support to seniors who require additional power for medical equipment.

How seniors can save money on their energy plans

Aside from government concessions, seniors can adopt various strategies to reduce their energy consumption and save money on their energy plans.

Shop around for better energy deals

Energy providers offer different rates, and seniors should compare prices and plans regularly. Some retailers offer discounts for paying bills on time or by direct debit. Using a price comparison website can help seniors find the most affordable plans tailored to their needs.

Use energy efficiency measures

Improving energy efficiency in the home is one of the most effective ways for seniors to save money. Simple steps such as:

All of these can lead to significant reductions in energy use. Many states offer subsidised energy audits or assistance with energy-saving products for seniors.

Be mindful of peak usage times

Energy prices can vary depending on the time of day, and many retailers have time-of-use rates, meaning energy is cheaper during off-peak hours.

Seniors should aim to use major appliances like washing machines, dryers, and dishwashers during these cheaper periods, typically in the evening or early morning.

Understand government-supported programs

In many cases, seniors can take advantage of government-funded energy efficiency programs. These programs can assist in upgrading to more efficient appliances or provide access to free energy-saving resources. By ensuring that their home is energy-efficient, seniors can lower their long-term energy costs significantly.

Install solar panels or battery storage

In some regions, seniors may be eligible for grants or rebates to install solar panels or solar battery storage systems. This can significantly reduce energy costs by allowing seniors to generate their own electricity and store excess energy for use later.

In the long run, investing in solar energy can be a cost-effective solution for seniors looking to reduce their reliance on the grid.

Make use of the right appliances

Seniors should opt for appliances that carry the Energy Star rating or similar certifications, indicating high energy efficiency. Also, using energy-efficient heating and cooling systems can make a noticeable difference in reducing energy consumption.

Connect with Compare Energy

Although there are no specific energy plans exclusively for seniors in Australia, numerous state-level concessions and government programs provide essential support to help seniors manage their energy costs. By taking advantage of these concessions and implementing energy-saving measures in the home, seniors can reduce their utility bills and enjoy more financial security.

As energy prices continue to evolve, staying informed about available rebates, concessions, and savings opportunities will help seniors navigate the complexities of their energy needs.

By exploring options in their specific state, and taking a proactive approach to energy efficiency, seniors can significantly ease their energy expenses.

Want to know more about saving money on energy plans for seniors? Call 1300 790 106 today.