Iselect energy
Quick Navigation:
- The Truth About Energy Comparisons
- Independent vs Commission-Based Comparison
- Real Savings Analysis
- Making an Informed Choice
The Truth About iSelect Electricity and Gas Comparison
When searching for the best energy plan, many Australians rely on comparison websites like iSelect Energy. However, as an independent energy comparison service, Energy Umpire has discovered that these commission-based services miss significant savings opportunities for consumers.
Review ISelect Energy: Big Names, Poor Plans
When using iSelect’s energy comparison service, consumers might assume they’re seeing all available options in the market. However, our analysis reveals that iSelect only compares plans from five energy companies:
- Origin Energy
- Energy Australia
- AGL
- Lumo Energy and Red Energy (different brands owned by the same company)
- Engie
This limited panel means consumers using iSelect Energy miss out on cheaper plans from dozens of other energy providers operating in Australia. We show that by using ISelect Energy you are OVERPAYING by $519 p.a. on average in four States (NSW, Vic, QLD, SA). That’s a cool $43/month, in your pocket in a cost of living crisis.
Click here to aviod overpaying now.
How iSelect’s Restricted Electricity and Gas Comparison Works
iSelect’s energy comparison service operates under two significant limitations:
- They only compare plans from their five partner energy companies
- Their displayed recommendations are influenced by commission arrangements
This means that even within their limited panel of six providers, iSelect may not always show the their best available electricity or gas plan first. Review your use of ISelect Energy now, before you pay over the top.
Independent vs Commission-Based Comparison
Unlike commission-based services, Energy Umpire operates independently, allowing us to provide unbiased comparisons across the entire market. While iSelect’s recommendations are influenced by provider partnerships and commissions, our independent analysis considers all available plans to find the genuinely cheapest options for consumers.
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has previously taken action against commission-based services for misleading consumers, highlighting the importance of truly independent comparison services.
Real Savings Analysis: Energy Umpire vs iSelect Energy Victoria
Our analysis of energy costs across five Melbourne suburbs reveals significant savings potential for Victorian households. Energy Umpire’s comparison data demonstrates average annual savings of $666 ($287 on electricity and $379 on gas). While iSelect offers a $150 sign-up credit, their plans ultimately remain more expensive than the market’s best available rates. Victorian households can maximise their savings through careful comparison and strategic provider selection, potentially reducing energy costs by up to $725 annually.
| Fitzroy | Sunbury | Port Melbourne | Epping | Malvern East | Average | |
| Electricity | $276 | $330 | $116 | $390 | $321 | $287 |
| Gas | $355 | $244 | $536 | $358 | $404 | $379 |
| Total | $631 | $574 | $652 | $748 | $725 | $666 |
iSelect best energy plan vs Energy Umpire in NSW
Our analysis of energy costs across three NSW locations (Mosman, Mount Druitt, and Wagga Wagga) reveals consistent savings opportunities. Energy Umpire’s comparison data shows average annual savings of $304. Electricity savings vary significantly by region, from $196 in Wagga Wagga to $344 in Mount Druitt, averaging $264. Gas savings remain consistent at $40 in areas where gas is available. While iSelect offers a $200 sign-up credit, their plans ultimately remain more expensive than the market’s best available rates. These findings demonstrate better savings potential through comprehensive market comparison.
| Mosman | Mount Druitt | WAGGA WAGGA | Average | ||
| Electricity | $252 | $344 | $196 | $264 | |
| Gas | $40 | $40 | N/A | $40 | |
| Total | $292 | $384 | $196 | $304 |
iSelect best energy plan vs Energy Umpire in Queensland
| Sunshine coast (no controlled load) | Ipswich (with controlled load) | Average | |
| Electricity | $585 | $587 | $586 |
| Gas | $222 | $222 | $222 |
| Total | $807 | $809 | $808 |
iSelect best energy plan vs Energy Umpire in SA
| Anytime | Time of use | Average | |
| Electricity | $345 | $249 | $297 |
| Total | $345 | $249 | $297 |
How to find the best plan
As an independent service, Energy Umpire offers several key advantages:
- Access to the complete market of energy providers
- No commission bias affecting recommendations
- Consideration of all available deals and promotions
- Transparent comparison of all costs and fees
Understanding Your Options
When comparing energy plans, consider these factors:
Elements of the Comparison
- Total supply charges
- Usage rates across all time periods
- Available discounts and promotions
The Independent Advantage
- Comprehensive market coverage
- Unbiased recommendations
- Complete fee transparency
- Regular market monitoring
Making an Informed Choice
To ensure you’re getting the best possible energy deal:
- Understand Your Usage
- Review your consumption patterns
- Consider peak usage times
- Account for seasonal variations
- Compare All Options
- Use independent comparison services
- Review all available providers
- Consider the total cost of plans
- Review the Complete Picture
- Examine all fees and charges
- Understand contract terms
- Consider future rate changes
The Value of Independent Comparison
While commission-based services like iSelect offer some comparison capabilities, independent analysis through Energy Umpire consistently reveals additional savings opportunities. Our commitment to finding the genuinely cheapest plans, regardless of commission arrangements, helps consumers achieve significant savings on their energy bills.
We encourage readers to make informed decisions by considering truly independent comparisons. Share your experiences with energy plan savings in the comments below to help others in their search for better deals.