Origin Energy vs Red Energy

    Compare Origin Energy 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.

    Origin Energy

    3.9/5

    Origin Energy is a solid choice for Australians who want a well-known retailer with flexible plan options. Their solar feed-in tariff rates are competitive, though pricing overall tends to be higher than smaller retailers.

    Full Origin 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

    Rates comparison

    MetricOriginRed Energy
    Avg. usage rate29c/kWh 27.5c/kWh
    Daily supply charge$1.05/day $0.98/day
    Est. annual bill$1,510 $1,430
    Solar feed-in tariff7–10c/kWh 6–8c/kWh
    Customer rating3.9/5 4.4/5
    States availableNSW, VIC, QLD, SA, ACTNSW, VIC, QLD, SA, ACT
    Plan typesfixed, variable, solar, green, businessfixed, 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.

    Origin Energy — pros & cons

    Large, established retailer with national coverage
    Competitive solar feed-in tariff rates
    Flexible plan options including fixed and variable
    Strong digital tools and app experience
    Green energy options available
    Premium pricing compared to smaller retailers
    Some customers report billing complexity
    Exit fees can apply on fixed-rate plans
    Call centre wait times during peak periods

    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

    Still unsure? Compare all providers at once.

    Use our free comparison tool to see every available plan in your area — not just these two. Enter your postcode and find the best deal for your household.

    Compare all electricity plans

    Frequently asked questions

    • Is Origin Energy cheaper than Red Energy?

      Based on average rates, Red Energy offers a lower average usage rate (27.5c/kWh vs 29c/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: Origin or Red Energy?

      Origin Energy generally offers the better solar feed-in tariff rate (7–10c/kWhc/kWh vs 6–8c/kWhc/kWh). Rates vary by state and plan, so confirm directly with the retailer.

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

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

    • Which is better overall: Origin Energy or Red Energy?

      Based on our analysis of pricing, solar feed-in tariffs, and customer satisfaction ratings, Red Energy edges ahead overall. However, the best provider for you depends on your state, usage patterns, and whether you have solar. Use our free comparison tool to get a personalised comparison.

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

      Switching energy 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 won't experience any interruption to your electricity supply. Check for any exit fees on your current plan before switching.

    More comparisons