Last updated: 1 April 2026

    Amber Electric vs Red Energy

    Red Energy appears cheaper based on average annual bill estimates — est. $1,430/yr, compared to $1,520/yr for Amber Electric. Actual costs vary by state, usage, and plan.

    Compare Amber Electric and Red Energy electricity plans side by side. See rates, solar feed-in tariffs, pros and cons, and find out which retailer offers the better deal for Australian households.

    Which provider is cheaper?

    $1,430
    Red Energy est. annual bill
    ✓ Lower
    $1,520
    Amber Electric est. annual bill
    Est. annual bill difference: $90 — actual costs vary by state, usage, and plan.

    Rates comparison

    MetricAmberRed Energy
    Avg. usage rate28c/kWh 27.5c/kWh
    Daily supply charge$1.02/day $0.98/day
    Est. annual bill$1,520 $1,430
    Solar feed-in tariffVaries with wholesale (see fact sheet) 6–8c/kWh
    Customer rating4/5 4.4/5
    States availableNSW, VIC, QLD, SA, ACTNSW, VIC, QLD, SA, ACT
    Plan typesvariable, solarfixed, variable, solar

    ✓ indicates the better value option for that metric. Estimates based on average household usage of 18 kWh/day. Actual rates vary by state and plan.

    This analysis is based on EnergyPlans Australia's 2026 energy pricing data across multiple providers and states.

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    Amber Electric

    4/5

    Amber Electric suits engaged households that want wholesale-linked pricing and are comfortable with some bill variability. If you have solar or a battery and like app-based control, Amber is worth comparing — otherwise, weigh it against simpler fixed or smoothed plans.

    Full Amber review
    Recommended

    Red Energy

    4.4/5

    Red Energy is consistently one of the best-rated retailers in Australia for value and customer service. Highly recommended for households in the eastern states looking for a competitive and trustworthy alternative to the major retailers.

    Full Red Energy review

    Amber Electric — pros & cons

    Transparent wholesale-linked pricing model with a flat subscription fee
    Strong fit for solar and battery households that can shift usage
    App-based visibility of prices and usage
    Australian-based retailer with a focus on renewables-friendly tech
    Available across several NEM states and the ACT
    Rates can move with the wholesale market — bills may vary month to month
    Not ideal if you want fixed or heavily smoothed prices year-round
    Smaller brand than the major retailers — fewer physical touchpoints
    Best value often assumes engagement with the app and automation
    Coverage excludes Western Australia and Northern Territory (typical for NEM retailers)

    Red Energy — pros & cons

    100% Australian-owned (Snowy Hydro subsidiary)
    Consistently top-rated for customer service
    Competitive pricing across all available states
    No hidden fees on most plans
    Solar feed-in tariff available
    Not available in WA, TAS, or NT
    Smaller retailer with fewer plan types than the big three
    Limited business energy options
    No gas supply in some states

    Frequently asked questions

    • Is Amber Electric cheaper than Red Energy?

      Based on average rates, Red Energy offers a lower average usage rate (27.5c/kWh vs 28c/kWh). However, actual costs depend on your specific plan, usage, and state. Always compare using your own energy bill data.

    • Which provider offers a better solar feed-in tariff: Amber or Red Energy?

      Red Energy generally offers the better solar feed-in tariff rate (6–8c/kWhc/kWh vs Varies with wholesale (see fact sheet)c/kWh). Rates vary by state and plan, so confirm directly with the retailer.

    • Are both Amber and Red Energy available in my state?

      Both Amber Electric and Red Energy are available in: NSW, VIC, QLD, SA, ACT. Amber Electric is available in NSW, VIC, QLD, SA, ACT, and Red Energy in NSW, VIC, QLD, SA, ACT.

    • Which is better overall: Amber Electric or Red Energy?

      Comparing average usage rates and customer satisfaction ratings in our dataset, Red Energy scores higher on both metrics. The right choice for you depends on your state, usage patterns, and whether you have solar panels.

    • How do I switch from Amber to Red Energy (or vice versa)?

      Switching electricity retailers in Australia is straightforward. You can switch online, by phone, or through an independent comparison service. The process typically takes 2–5 business days and you will not experience any interruption to your electricity supply. Check for any exit fees on your current plan before switching.

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