What is the NSW Energy Bill Relief rebate and how can it help you?

The NSW National Energy Bill Relief is designed to assist residents in New South Wales (NSW) by reducing their energy costs.

With rising energy prices, this rebate offers financial relief to households, particularly those struggling with high utility bills. 

With rising energy prices, this rebate offers financial relief to households, particularly those struggling with high utility bills. It is part of a wider effort by the state government to make electricity more affordable for vulnerable groups such as pensioners, low-income families, and people with disabilities.

Most NSW households will receive their Bill Relief payment automatically from their electricity provider in quarterly instalments of $75 on their electricity bill from 31 July 2024, 1 October 2024, 1 January 2025 and 1 April 2025.

Let’s break down what the NSW National Energy Bill Relief is, including how it works, who can apply, and other available assistance programs in the state. We’ll also provide tips to help reduce your energy consumption and lower your bills even further.

Eligibility criteria for the energy rebate program

To qualify for the NSW National Energy Bill Relief, applicants do not have to meet specific eligibility criteria. This particular rebate is open to all NSW households no matter income or background.

How to apply for the NSW energy rebate

Applying for the NSW National Energy Bill Relief is a simple process. Here’s how you can apply:

• Give our team a call for guidance: The best thing to do is call our Compare Energy team on 1300 790 106 to see whether or not you are eligible for the rebate. We can walk you through the providers offering it, along with how you can get it set up.

What other rebates and assistance are available in NSW?

In addition to the Household Energy Rebate, there are several other government rebates and assistance programs available to NSW residents to help with their energy costs. These programs offer financial relief and encourage energy efficiency.

• Low income energy rebate (LIER): The Low Income Energy Rebate provides a discount on electricity bills for households receiving specific Centrelink payments. This rebate is available in addition to the Household Energy Rebate for eligible households.
• Family energy rebate: The Family Energy Rebate offers support to households with children under 16 or full-time students under 21. Eligible families can receive a rebate on their energy bills to help with electricity costs.
• Medical energy rebate: If you or a member of your household uses energy-intensive medical equipment (e.g., oxygen concentrators), you may qualify for the Medical Energy Rebate. This provides financial assistance for the extra energy used due to medical needs.
• Energy bill payment assistance: If you are struggling to pay your energy bills, many energy retailers offer payment plans and other forms of assistance. Contact your provider to discuss your options.
• Energy efficiency programs: The NSW Government also supports energy-saving initiatives such as discounted energy-efficient appliances (e.g., LED lights, insulation) and energy audits to help you identify ways to reduce consumption.

By applying for these rebates and programs, you can significantly reduce your energy costs and improve the energy efficiency of your home.

Tips to reduce energy usage alongside applying for the rebate

While the NSW National Energy Bill Relief provides immediate financial relief, reducing your energy usage is a long-term strategy to save money. Here are some practical tips to help lower your energy consumption:

• Switch to energy-efficient appliances: Upgrade to energy-efficient appliances that consume less power. Look for appliances with an Energy Star rating to save on energy costs.
• Use energy-efficient lighting: Replace traditional incandescent bulbs with energy-efficient LED lights, which use less energy and last longer.
• Unplug devices: Many electronics continue to use energy even when turned off (known as phantom power). Unplug devices when they’re not in use to save energy.
• Adjust heating and cooling: Set your heating to a comfortable temperature (around 18-21°C in winter) and use fans in summer instead of excessive air conditioning. This reduces overall energy consumption.
• Seal gaps and insulate your home: Proper insulation and sealing gaps around windows and doors will help maintain your home’s temperature, reducing the need for constant heating or cooling.
• Use energy-saving settings: Many appliances, such as washing machines and dishwashers, have energy-saving modes. Make use of these settings to reduce energy use.
• Consider solar power: If it’s a feasible option, installing solar panels can reduce your electricity usage and lower your energy costs over time.

Contact Compare Energy today

The NSW National Energy Bill Relief is a valuable resource for eligible households, offering relief from the rising cost of energy.

By applying for the rebate and taking advantage of other available assistance programs, you can significantly reduce your energy bills. Adopting energy-saving habits in your daily life can help further cut down on costs.

If you're unsure about your eligibility or need help applying for the rebate, speak to the team at Compare Energy on 1300 790 106. We can guide you through the process and help you access the best energy-saving options for your household.