High bill causes

There are a few reasons your bill might be higher than expected. Below are some of the most common reasons behind bill increases - check to see if any apply to your household. 

Seasonal changes

One of the biggest influences on energy bills in Tasmania is the weather. In fact, the average monthly energy consumption for Aurora’s customers during winter last year was 51% higher than in the summer months. This is mainly due to the need to use appliances like heaters and dryers, longer hot showers, and extra lighting during the darker months. 

If you're comparing bills, make sure you're comparing from the same time last year. 

Lifestyle changes

Do you have more people at home? Housemates, guests, a new baby; all can have an impact on the amount of power you're using. 

Many households are also spending more time at home. Working and schooling from home means heaters, computers, TVs and other appliances are being used more often.

Appliances

Have you purchased a new or larger model of an existing appliance? Or are you using certain appliances more than usual? Appliances like plug-in heaters, clothes dryers, fish tanks, computers and plasma TVs are all common causes of high energy consumption. Is it possible you may have an appliance that's old or faulty, which is drawing a lot more energy than it should? 

If you're concerned about how much energy your appliances are using, look into a hiring (for free!) a HEAT kit and do your own energy audit. 

Estimated bills

Has your bill been estimated? If the meter reader hasn't been able to access your meter to read it, where possible, your account will be produced based on your average usage at the same time last year. Read more about how this may effect your bill here. 

Has your previous bill been estimated? If your current bill is an actual read, check if the one before was estimated. If it is, your bill may be higher because your last bill was 'under-estimated' and this bill is 'catching up'. Read more here. 

You can see if your bill has been estimated on page 2 of your bill. 

Do a bill check

When you get a higher than expected bill, your bill is full of information that could help you figure out what might be contributing to higher than expected energy costs. 

• Check your concession discount has has been added to your bill. 
• Have you paid off your previous bill in full? If a balance has been carried over from your previous bill, it might make your current bill higher than expected.
• Check your billing period. How many days have you been billed for? Quarterly bills are around 90 days. If you've recently moved house your first bill for that property might have been for a shorter time depending on when you moved and your quarterly billing cycle.   
• Has there been a price change? Each year prices for standing offer customers are reviewed. This year prices increased by 11.88%. Read more here.
• Has your bill been estimated? See above to understand how this could impact your bill.

Payment options

If you need extra time to pay your bill, we have plans available.

Request a payment extension