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RACV Electricity and Gas: A Quick Recap
Did you know RACV have launched their own Electricity and Gas Company? It’s Arcline by RACV. Here’s a quick summary:
- Service Areas: Victoria
- Average Annual Electricity Cost: $1,564 (12% higher than the best provider)
- Average Annual Gas Cost: $2,561 (32% higher than the best provider)
- Customer Satisfaction: 4.9/5 based on recent verified customer feedback and reviews.
Introduction to RACV as an Energy Company
The Launch of Arcline by RACV – A New Player in the Energy Market
RACV, a trusted household name in Victoria best known for its roadside assistance and insurance services, has recently diversified into the electricity retail sector under the brand name Arcline by RACV. This strategic move aligns with the growing demand for consumer-centric energy solutions in Australia. Launched as part of RACV’s broader initiative to offer home and lifestyle services, Arcline aims to capitalise on the organization’s strong customer base and reputation for reliability.
Why RACV Entered the Electricity Retail Space
RACV’s entry into the energy market reflects a broader trend among non-traditional entities venturing into essential services. With electricity bills rising and consumer trust in major energy retailers waning, RACV saw an opportunity to offer an alternative that combines transparency, environmental awareness, and convenience. The back office is outsourced and RACV only undertake marketing and customer service. Leveraging its brand credibility, the company positions Arcline in the slipstream of a trusted brand. We ask the question should you trust this initiative? Read on to find out.
What Arcline by RACV Promises
Customer Experience and Digital Tools
Arcline offers simple, contract-free energy plans that focus on ease of use and digital accessibility. Customers can sign up online, manage their accounts via a mobile app, and track usage in near-real time.
Arcline by RACV emphasizes a seamless digital experience. From quick online quoting to intuitive dashboards for usage tracking, the company ensures that tech-savvy users can manage their energy needs efficiently. Additionally, RACV offers integration with solar energy solutions and potential future bundling with other home services.
RACV Energy offers cash credits for members who stay as customers for 3 months. The credit is $150 for each for RACV electricity or gas and with the discount credited after 3 months.
Comparing RACV Plans with the Alternatives
Methodology: How we Compared plans
To provide an objective comparison, we reviewed the all available energy plans in Victoria. We based our analysis on average usage of a 3 person household using government sources for both metro and regional areas.
How much people can save by switching to Cheapest Plan?
The difference between RACV plans and the cheapest market offers can be quite significant. Customers with electricity and gas are overpaying by an average of $$815 p.a. or $68 / month.
RACV Electricity
On average, households switching from RACV to the lowest-cost electricity provider could save $165 with variation depending on usage and location.
RACV Gas
For gas the savings are extreme. Households switching from RACV to the lowest-cost electricity provider could save $650 with variation depending on usage and location. It’s a simple case of RACV gas being totally uncompetitive.
RACV Energy summary
These figures emphasize the importance of regularly comparing plans, especially as electricity rates fluctuate. While RACV may offer good customer service and app features, the raw price gap is clear for budget-conscious consumers. Take a look at the tables below to see the variation by location.
The $150 credit or discount offered to RACV members is a useless incentive for gas, given how uncompetitive their gas rates are. However for electricity, if you are prepared to be disciplined, you could stay with RACV for 5 or 6 months then switch.
RACV – VIC – Elec
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Citipower – Camberwell
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Powercor – Bendigo
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Jemena – Heidelberg
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Ausnet – Traralgon
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United Energy – Moorabbin
| Usage Type | Arcline by RACV – Energy | Cheapest plan |
|---|---|---|
| Peak1 | 0.2500 | 0.1343 |
| Peak2 | N/A | 0.2783 |
| Daily charge | 0.5300 | 1.5125 |
| Yearly Cost | $1,381 | $1,244 |
| Overpayment | $138 | – |
| Usage Type | Arcline by RACV – Energy | Cheapest plan |
|---|---|---|
| Peak1 | 0.2700 | 0.1583 |
| Peak2 | N/A | 0.3520 |
| Daily charge | 0.8700 | 1.6390 |
| Yearly Cost | $1,601 | $1,423 |
| Overpayment | $178 | – |
| Usage Type | Arcline by RACV – Energy | Cheapest plan |
|---|---|---|
| Peak1 | 0.2700 | 0.1583 |
| Peak2 | N/A | 0.3520 |
| Daily charge | 0.8700 | 1.6390 |
| Yearly Cost | $1,601 | $1,423 |
| Overpayment | $178 | – |
| Usage Type | Arcline by RACV – Energy | Cheapest plan |
|---|---|---|
| Peak1 | 0.3150 | 0.1980 |
| Peak2 | 0.3200 | 0.4086 |
| Daily charge | 0.8200 | 1.6500 |
| Yearly Cost | $1,800 | $1,621 |
| Overpayments | $178 | – |
| Usage Type | Arcline by RACV – Energy | Cheapest plan |
|---|---|---|
| Peak | 0.2620 | 0.2093 |
| Daily charge | 0.6100 | 0.8763 |
| Yearly Cost | $1,468 | $1,314 |
| Overpayment | $153 | – |
RACV – VIC – Gas
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RACV – VIC Gas
| Town Name | RACV Yearly Cost | Best Plan Yearly Cost | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Camberwell | $2,429 | $1,938 | $491 |
| Bendigo | $2,505 | $1,904 | $601 |
| Heidelberg | $2,724 | $1,968 | $755 |
| Traralgon | $2,720 | $1,968 | $752 |
| Moorabbin | $2,429 | $1,938 | $491 |
Expert Opinions and Consumer Reviews
What Energy Experts Are Saying About RACV Plans
Energy market analysts have noted that while RACV’s entrance into the energy sector adds much-needed competition, their pricing strategy leans towards premium offerings. Experts suggest that RACV is not targeting the price-sensitive segment but instead aims to win over customers who value brand reputation, green credentials, and service reliability. According to insights from consumer advocacy groups, the lack of deep discounts could deter bargain hunters but attract environmentally-focused consumers.
Real Customer Feedback: Online Reviews and Ratings
Online reviews of Arcline by RACV are generally positive, with many customers praising the ease of sign-up, excellent customer support, and transparent billing. However, some reviews highlight the higher costs compared to other providers, especially for customers without solar or those who don’t benefit from carbon offset features. On platforms like ProductReview and Trustpilot, RACV scores well, which is around 4.9 out of 5 , but loses points for competitive pricing.
Social Media Sentiment and Word of Mouth
On social media platforms such as Reddit, Facebook, and community forums, opinions on RACV’s energy plans are mixed. Long-time RACV members express loyalty and confidence in trying their energy product, while others voice concern over pricing disparities. The brand’s recognition helps generate interest, but active comparisons to cheaper competitors dominate online discussions.
Making an Informed Choice: Tips for Energy Shoppers
Using Government Comparison Tools or Energy Umpire
To navigate Australia’s complex energy market, consumers are encouraged to use official tools like Energy Made Easy or Victorian Energy Compare. Or you could check independent comparison sites, Energy Umpire. Avoid any that get paid a commission from a panel of allied Energy Companies.
Conclusion
Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider RACV Energy?
RACV energy plans make the most sense for customers who prioritize brand trust, user-friendly digital services, and potential bundling benefits with other RACV offerings. Those who are already loyal RACV members may appreciate the convenience of having multiple services under one umbrella, even if it means paying a premium.
Our Recommendation for Budget-Conscious Australians
If your primary goal is to minimise electricity and gas expenses, switching from Arcline by RACV to one of the real cheapest market options could yield savings of $629–$933 per year. Budget-conscious consumers should routinely use comparison tools, assess their usage needs, and avoid being swayed by brand recognition alone. In a competitive and evolving energy market, staying informed is the key to financial efficiency.
FAQs for Arcline By RACV
Contact Arcline by calling 1300 884 849 or emailing support@energy.arcline.com.au. Include your account number, a clear description, and any relevant evidence. Their customer resolution team will investigate and reply promptly.
Arcline offers payment extensions and instalment plans for customers who reach out proactively. They do not charge exit or joining fees, and expect you to be proactive in discussing payment assistance with their support team.
You can lodge a complaint by phone, email, or in writing to their Cremorne office. If unresolved, request escalation or internal review. They aim to respond within 7 business days.
If Arcline can’t resolve your problem, you can escalate to the Energy and Water Ombudsman Victoria (EWOV). Arcline clearly points customers to this free, independent service in their policy documentation.
Phone: 1300 884 849
Email: support@energy.arcline.com.au
Mail: Arcline by RACV – Energy, 2/11 Newton St, Cremorne VIC 3121
