Connect Electricity for Your New Home

Setting up an electricity connection for a new home isn’t as complicated as it sounds, but make sure you connect electricity on time so you don’t leave it until the last minute. Electricity doesn’t just switch on when you walk through the door; it needs to be set up. If the power is already connected, you just need to set up an account with your electricity provider. If not, you’ll need to request a connection, and that can take a day or two, sometimes longer if it’s the weekend or a public holiday in the way. If you’re moving to a brand new build, that’s another thing. New homes often need a meter installed before you can even think about switching on a light. Nobody wants to unpack boxes while holding a flashlight because they forgot to set up their connection. There are a few things to keep in mind to avoid delays. Here’s what you need to do.

Check the Meter First

When you get the keys, take a look at your electricity meter. It should be switched off if it’s still on, the electricity distributor might have trouble reconnecting it. This small step can save you from unexpected delays.

Find Out Where the Meter Is

Some meters are easy to find, others not so much. They could be in a locked box, behind a fence, or even shared with other units. Ask your real estate agent where yours is located and make sure it’s accessible. If the technician can’t reach it, your connection might get delayed.

Keep Your NMI Handy

The National Meter Identifier (NMI) is a unique number linked to your electricity meter. It helps retailers set up your electricity connection faster. You can find it on an old bill if you have one, or ask your real estate agent. Having it ready will speed up the process.

Timing Matters

If you need your home electricity connected quickly, don’t leave it to the last minute. The best time to request an electricity connection is Monday to Thursday, requests on Fridays or weekends can roll into the next week. Planning ahead will save you the frustration of moving into a dark house.

Already Have a Plan?

If you’re with an electricity provider already, check if you can transfer your existing plan to your new place. It’s often easier than starting a new contract and might save you from paying any extra fees.

Need Power Right Now?

If you’re moving in today and need power right now, ask about same-day electricity connection. Just remember, providers usually have a cut-off time, so call early in the day.

Moving Into a Disconnected Property?

If the previous tenants had the electricity shut off, you might need a reconnection service. Some providers can do this remotely, but others may need to send a technician. Either way, it’s good to check so you’re not left without power on moving day.

• 1st Energy – VIC, NSW, QLD, TAS
• ActewAGL – ACT, parts of NSW
• AGL – VIC, NSW, QLD, SA
• Alinta Energy – VIC, NSW, QLD, SA, WA
• Amber Electric – VIC, NSW, QLD, SA
• Arcline by RACV – Energy – VIC
• Blue NRG – VIC, NSW, SA
• CovaU Energy – VIC, NSW, QLD, SA
• Diamond Energy – VIC, NSW, SA, QLD
• Dodo Power and Gas – VIC, NSW, QLD, SA
• Energy Locals – VIC, NSW, QLD, SA, ACT
• EnergyAustralia – VIC, NSW, QLD, SA, ACT
• GloBird Energy – VIC, NSW, QLD, SA
• Kogan Energy – VIC, NSW, QLD, SA
• Lumo Energy – VIC, SA
• Momentum Energy – VIC, NSW, QLD, SA
• Nectr – VIC, NSW, QLD, SA
• Origin Energy – VIC, NSW, QLD, SA, ACT
• OVO Energy – VIC, NSW, QLD, SA
• Powershop – VIC, NSW, QLD, SA
• Radian Energy – VIC, NSW
• ReAmped Energy – VIC, NSW, QLD, SA
• Red Energy – VIC, NSW, QLD, SA, ACT
• Simply Energy – VIC, NSW, QLD, SA
• Sumo – VIC, NSW, QLD
• Tango Energy – VIC, NSW
• The People’s Grid – VIC
• ZEN Energy – VIC, NSW, SA

Compare Electricity Providers with Move-In Connect 

At Move-In Connect, we make it easy to compare and connect electric without the runaround. Whether you need to compare electricity providers, switch electricity retailers or a same-day setup, we work with top energy retailers from our panel to connect electricity online without the fuss.

Need power at your new place? Give us a call or enter your details online, we’ll sort out the rest!

In Australia, you must live in a deregulated energy market to be able to choose your electricity provider. We can help residents of New South Wales, South-East Queensland, ACT, South Australia, Tasmania, and Victoria moving home electricity.

In other regions, your electricity will be supplied at a subsidized rate from the government-nominated provider.Read Less…

Getting electricity connected at a new place isn’t complicated, but it does take some planning. If you set it up before 11 a.m. on the business day before you move in, you might avoid extra fees.

How Long Does It Take to Connect Electricity?

• Existing Connections (Reconnection) – If there’s already a meter at the property, your home electricity can be reconnected within 1-3 business days. Notify your electricity retailer early to prevent delays.
• New Connections (No Meter Installed Yet) – For new builds, electricity can take 10-20 business days to be connected. Check with your builder to confirm the meter is installed.

Steps to Get Your Electricity Connected

1. Confirm Your Move-in Date – Your electricity retailer needs to know when to switch on the power. Most setups happen on weekdays.
2. Provide Your Details – You’ll need your address, meter location, and NMI (National Meter Identifier) usually found on the meter.
3. Retailer Organises Connection – Your electricity provider will arrange the setup with the distributor.

Moving electricity connections with Move-In Connect is easy. To get started, simply call us on 1300 786 045 or enter your details to connect electricity online and one of our experts will give you a call to discuss your new electricity plan.

Some of the great benefits of connecting with us are:

100% FREE

We are paid a commission from the retailer you choose after you make the switch, so it will never cost you a cent.

Unbiased advice from electricity experts

We have independently chosen our suppliers from some of Australia’s leading electricity companies based on cost, customer service and quality. We are independently owned and not affiliated with any energy companies, so you can rest assured that our recommendations have not been swayed by any commercial agreements.

Fast and stress-free

Not having enough time to shop around is one of the main reasons that people stay with their current provider, but it can cost you hundreds of dollars every year. But with Move-In Connect, all it takes is one easy phone call, instead of days of trawling through offers on individual websites. 

Great value

The best value for your electricity bill comes from more than just low rates. We will compare rates and tariffs, including off-peak and solar feed-in, discounts, rewards, flexible contracts and exit fees to make sure you get great value forzthe life of your plan.

Obligation-free

We will give you our best recommendation and all the information you need to make an informed decision, but it’s up to you to decide if you want to make the switch.

Peace of mind with Our Guarantee

We take your needs very seriously and will always strive to find you the best plan from our providers and get you connected on time. It’s our guarantee.

Yes, as well as arranging to connect electricity, Move-In Connect will compare electricity plans from our panel of preferred suppliers to find you the best deal. Simply enter your details to connect electricity online or call us at 1300 786 045 to get started.

When you use our free comparison service, you will get tailored advice from our electricity experts. We will compare every aspect of the plans available in your area to find you the perfect match from our providers.

Information about your electricity

The more information you give us, the better we can match you with the right plan. We will ask you about the size of your new home, how many people live there, if you work from home, if you have solar panels, if you have electric hot water and if you have any extra requirements such as a swimming pool. If you have any other specific requirements, such as green energy, let our team know so we can find you a great plan.

Information about electricity plans

There’s so much more to comparing plans than simply looking for low rates. We will consider every aspect of the plans available to you, including rates and tariffs, bundles, discounts, special offers, rewards and customer service.

Read more here: Compare electricity plans the easy way. 

To compare and switch providers, you must live in a deregulated electricity region. You can choose your own Victoria electricity connection, New South Wales, South-East Queensland, ACT, South Australia and Tasmania.

Moving to a new state is already a big job, and figuring out your electricity connection shouldn’t make it harder. Different states have different energy setups, so what works in one place might not in another. If you’re moving from Victoria to NSW, Queensland to South Australia, or anywhere else, it’s good to know how things change and compare electricity providers before you get there.

How Electricity Works Across States

In Victoria, NSW, South Australia, and parts of Queensland, you get to choose your own electricity provider. You can switch around and find a better deal whenever you want. But if you’re moving to Western Australia, the Northern Territory, or regional Queensland, there’s no picking your electricity comes from a set provider, and that’s that.

How long it takes to get connected also depends on where you’re going. Some states let you get same-day power connections, while others might take a few days. And if your new place doesn’t already have a meter? That could take even longer, and yeah, it’s gonna cost extra.

Connect Electricity Across States with Move-In Connect

Nobody wants to show up at their new place and find out the power isn’t on. That’s where Move-In Connect comes in. We make sure your electricity and gas are sorted before you even step through the door. Whether you need same-day electric connections, are looking for cheaper rates, or just want to know everything’s taken care of, we’ll handle it.

Just throw in your details, and we’ll match you with top energy providers in your new state. No messing around with phone calls, no stress just lights on when you walk in.

Meters

Meter types can be different. There is a residential electricity meter, a business meter, an embedded network meter, and a more extensive commercial meter. Residential and business meters can be further divided into smart and analog. Meters can also be divided into single-rate and two-rate meters, control loads, time-of-use meters, and demand meters. Mechanical meters include Odometer-Style Dial and Dial Display Meters. Electronic meters include smart meters and interval meters. 

Smart Meters

Smart meters are upgraded energy meters that track your home’s energy usage by recording hourly data. This information is then sent to your energy provider for billing based on your actual consumption. This eliminates the need for estimated readings, which in the past could be less precise due to factors like data or meter readers avoiding pets in your yard.

Knowing that these readings are securely transmitted to your energy provider using encryption and a secure network gives you peace of mind. The provider uses your meter ID to link the data with your account details, ensuring billing. Importantly, your personal information, like name and address, is nver shared through the smart meter system.

What are Kilowatts, and How Is Energy Measured on Your Meter? 

If you know how much power an appliance or electronic device consumes, you can calculate how it affects your electricity bill.

Start by checking your electricity bill to see the price per kilowatt hour you are being billed. This rate could be consistent or vary depending on the time of day.

Then, determine your appliance’s wattage and convert it to kilowatts (1 kilowatt equals 1,000 watts).

To know how much it costs to operate the appliance for one hour, multiply its power usage in kilowatts by the rate per kilowatt hour on your electricity bill. For instance, if you’re charged $0.15 per kWh and your toaster uses 2.5 kilowatts, running it for an hour would cost you 37.5 cents.

Do I Require a New Meter?

Existing meter: If a meter is installed at your property, you will typically not need another one.

No meter: If you’re moving into a home or a place that doesn’t have a meter yet, your utility company will set one up. However, they may charge you to install a new meter.

NMI

To find your NMI (National Metering Identifier), which is a number for your electricity connection, follow these steps when comparing energy plans on our website;

1. Check your energy bill to see the name of your energy provider.
2. Find your NMI on the bills page near your customer information.
3. Understand the format; NMIs typically consist of numbers and letters with 10 or 11 characters.

Check for letters in your NMI and ensure they are not ‘O’ or ‘I’.

4. If your NMI contains letters, verify that they do not include ‘O’ or ‘I’.Differentiate between your NMI and meter number. With your approval, your NMI is used to access details about your energy consumption from the Australian Energy Market Operator.

In Queensland, NMIs usually commence with two letters followed by nine digits.

There are three types of electricity meters for residential and small business customers connected to the National Electricity Market (NEM):

• Basic. There are two types of basic meters – accumulation meters that measure the total amount of electricity used over a period of time and Time of Use (ToU) meters that record usage within specific periods. The majority of customers are connected by a basic meter.
• Interval Time of Use (ToU). Interval ToU meters are more advanced than the basic meter and can record the amount of electricity used in 30-minute intervals. This means you can take advantage of plans with off-peak energy rates.
• Smart Meters, also known as Advanced Meters (AMI). These are the most advanced meters and record energy usage in real time.

You can find out which meter type you have in your home or business by taking a look at your electricity bill. If you’re still not sure, give Move-In Connect a call and we will help you determine your meter type.

If you are moving home electricity, make sure you ask your real estate agent or vendors to show you where the electricity meter is located. If you are moving into a rental, you can ask your real estate agent or landlord.

It is straightforward to connect electric to your new home. 

• When you get your keys from your real estate, please ensure your meter is in the off position. The reason for putting the meter in an off position is that sometimes it gets difficult for the distributor to re-energise your meter. 
• Please ask about the location of the gas and electricity meter and if it is accessible. Important information you can seek from your real estate is the NMI number, the National meter identifier, and the MIRN – Meter Identifier Reference Number. It will be easier for Moveinconnect staff to have this information. 

Alternatively, a Moveinconnect expert can do an address look-up to find your NMI and MIRN number. You can call Moveinconnect between 10 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. Make sure you set up your connection from Monday to Thursday. Friday can be a tricky day. Raising a connection request on the weekend can delay your connection for next week.

If you’re moving while under contract, it’s worth checking with the retailers to see if they offer a plan transfer option. For details, feel free to visit our moving homes or business page. Additionally, inquire whether the retailer offers reconnection services at your location.

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When it comes to Remote energisation, it is essential to go through a script that covers;

•  Informing customers about the possibility of Remote Energisation
•  Outlining timeframes and costs for both remote activation
•  Confirming customers’ understanding of safety guidelines
•  Detailing access requirements for the switch and meter

Timeframes

Remote Move-Ins follow the timelines for connections outlined in the Vendor Service Order Cut-Off Times and Excluded Service Charges Spreadsheet.

Day or next-day services are available for requests if submitted by 11:30 am. 

Charges

When setting up a Remote Move-in, informing the customer about the Remote Connection Fee and the Manual Connection fee is essential. This ensures that the customer is informed about the cost of the distributor’s inability to complete the Remote Connection.

The vendor service order cut-off times and excluded service charges spreadsheet provide details regarding timeframes for Remote and Manual Fees. This document provides all information for move-in scheduling, including cut-off times, availability for same-day connections, and all fees with GST included.

Safety concerns are a part of our responsibilities for compliance when arranging a remote Move-in. These safety requirements, mandated by Energy Safe Victoria, are in place to safeguard customers and their property.

To ensure compliance when coordinating a move, we need to ask the following questions;

1. “Are there any renovations or changes planned at the property?”
2. “If there has been a disconnection at the site, were any renovations or changes made at that time?”
3. “Does anyone in your household rely on life support equipment or any form of life-sustaining devices?”

The move-in request must be processed if the customer confirms a ‘Yes’ response to inquiries regarding renovations or modifications.

Issues with Unsuccessful Remote Move Ins/Outs

A distributor may sometimes try to connect or disconnect but face difficulties remotely. Common reasons for failures include;

•  The main switch cannot be turned on
•  Identifying a safety concern
•  The Smart meter is not responding to the energisation/de-energisation attempt

In these cases, the retailer will send someone during business hours as scheduled to connect or disconnect manually. Customers will incur charges for services in these instances.

In Queensland, a safety inspection (VSI) is required to reconnect a property without power for more than 30 days.

When you switch your electricity service to a place in Queensland, a VSI will be automatically arranged for the address, usually applicable to houses and duplexes. Connect electricity today in Queensland. 

Checklist for VSI:

• Condition of the meter and wiring: No visible damage, tampering or exposed wires.
• Main switch position: Must be turned off before connection.
• Signs of electrical hazards: Burn marks, melted switches or faulty connections. 
• Property access and safety: The area around the meter must be clear and safe for an inspection. 
• Renovations or structural changes: If major electrical work has been done, a licensed electrician may need to certify it before power is restored. 
• Once your booking is confirmed, your retailer will send you the appointment details.

Someone may need to be on-site for the VSI, especially if the electricity meter is inside or behind a locked gate. If access is unrestricted, the inspector may be able to complete it without anyone there.

Your electricity provider will confirm whether someone needs to be there and provide details on what to expect. If required, the occupant, property owner or an authorised person must be present at the time. 

Additional Details:

VSI Included in Booking: When you arrange an electricity transfer with your retailer, a VSI is automatically set up at your location. We’ll share your appointment specifics and send you a reminder before the inspection. The VSI will be scheduled within a five-hour timeframe.

Exceptions from VSI Booking: If power has been active at the property in the last 30 days, a VSI may not be necessary. This typically applies when power was recently switched off rather than disconnected from the source, making it easier for a new energy retailer to reconnect.

Steps to Cancel a VSI Reservation:

If you know that electricity has been used in the month’s location, you won’t require the VSI. To cancel your VSI reservation, simply call your retailer. If it’s optional, we will help you with the cancellation process.

When you receive your electricity bill, it typically comprises two components;

1. Service Charges: These charges, also known as fixed or service fees, encompass the expenses associated with delivering energy to your residence and maintaining your connection to the power grid.
2. Usage Fees: This is the amount you are charged for the electricity you use.

Energy distribution companies bill energy providers to supply electricity and gas. Providers then establish service and usage fees based on these expenses, which you can incorporate into your energy plan.

Electricity tariffs dictate how providers bill you based on your electricity delivery. Various common tariff structures include;

• Single rate tariff: You pay a rate for the electricity you consume regardless of the time of day.
• Time of use tariff: Rates fluctuate depending on the time of day or night, and they are categorised into peak hours, off-peak hours, and shoulder periods.
• Controlled Load Tariff: This applies to underfloor heating appliances with meters. A distinct rate is used for the energy consumed by these appliances.

Cost of Electricity in Australia

Electricity costs across Australia vary significantly depending on the state or territory.

For insights into average electricity expenses in your region, check out our page, where you can compare energy prices with retailers on our panel. There are offers for the following regions:

•  Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
•  New South Wales
•  South Australia
•  South East Queensland
•  Victoria

Discounts and Energy Rates

Many retailers provide energy packages with varying discounts and charges. You can compare these packages on Move-In Connect.

Discounts

Retailers might offer discounts to help lower your bill. Here are some discount options to think about;

• Automatic payment discount: When you allow the store to deduct your bill payment directly from your credit card or bank account.
• Bundle discount: When you get gas and electricity services from the store.
• Billing discount: When you receive your bill via email instead of traditional mail.
• Prompt payment discount: When you settle the amount by the deadline.

Confirm if the discount applies to your bill or just a specific part.

Also, it’s worth comparing prices to determine if a plan without discounts might have an overall rate.

Specific plans come with a ‘benefit period’ during which you can enjoy advantages such as discounts or extra perks, like movie tickets or magazines.

Once this period ends, you will either return to paying the price or no longer receive the extra items.

For example, you could enroll in a program with a 12-month benefit period that offers a 10% discount. Once the 12-month period ends, you will stay on the plan but lose the 10% discount.

Retailers must inform you 20 business days before the benefit period expires, but at most 40 days in advance.

Charges

 Fees may apply to your plan. Here are some essential points to note;

• Fee for setting up an account: Applied when you join a plan.
• Late payment charge: This is imposed if you miss your bill payment deadline.
• Disconnection fee: Levied if your energy service is disconnected due to non-payment.
• Reconnection fee: Incurred to restore your energy service post disconnection.
• Termination fee: Charged if you end your plan prematurely, also known as an ‘early termination’ or ‘cancellation’ fee. If you’re looking for energy plans that don’t come with exit fees

You can explore plans with no exit fees on Move-In Connect.

If you decide to move to a place, some energy retailers might allow you to transfer your plan to your new address.

Read More About Fees: Electricity and Gas Connections Fees When Moving Home

• Gas and electricity discounts and financial support programs can help low-income households in need who may struggle to pay their utility bills. Here’s how it typically works;
• Different states and regions usually offer discounts and support programs. Your eligibility for these benefits depends on factors like holding a concession card for equipment use, your age, and being an energy bill account holder. 
• You may qualify for discounts on gas and electricity depending on where you live and your circumstances.
• You must usually contact your energy provider to apply these benefits to your bills.
• While you may be eligible, each benefit can only be used for one household account, even if multiple individuals reside there.

Medical Conditions

If you or a family member relies on life support due to a medical condition, it’s important to notify Move-In Connect consultants. We will ensure that your property is designated to prevent any power shutdown from the energy retailer and distributor. Your new energy supplier might send you a life support form, which may need to be signed by your general practitioner and returned, or you can reach out to your energy distributor. 

Life support equipment includes an oxygen concentrator, intermittent peritoneal dialysis machine, kidney dialysis machine, chronic positive airway pressure respirator, Crigler-Najjar syndrome phototherapy equipment, a ventilator for life support, and any other electrical equipment deemed as life support by your doctor. This can include equipment for sleep apnea, emergency alert buttons, heating or cooling systems, hot water, and electrical beds or chairs.

How To Apply For Electricity Rebate

If you meet the electricity or gas rebate criteria, claiming it may differ based on the benefit. Typically, you must contact your energy provider to apply for energy rebates. However, there are also instances where rebates can be applied online when enrolling in an energy package.

Sometimes, additional paperwork might be needed to confirm your eligibility. This could involve records if you are seeking a related rebate or evidence of financial challenges if relevant.

If you have panels and a smart meter, your local government or certain energy companies might give you credit on your electricity bill for the power you send back to the grid. This credit is called a feed-in tariff.

If you don’t already have panels, you could qualify to install them at your residence or business and receive a government subsidy to help cover some of the costs of the panels and battery.

Some retailers on our platform may default to incorporating energy into their plans. Take steps to reduce emissions on your behalf. If you’re interested in energy options, certain providers might;

•  Include 10% GreenPower as part of their offering
•  Offer sign-ups to a renewable energy program for an extra fee

Participating in renewable energy programs can offset the carbon emissions from your electricity consumption, making your plan environmentally friendly. You can explore energy choices through our energy comparison service.

Read More about Soller feed In tariff in different State: 

• Make the Most of Solar with the Best Feed-In Tariffs in SA
• Top 3 Best Solar Feed In Tariffs in Queensland
• Top 3 Best Solar Feed In Tariffs in Victoria
• Top Solar Feed in Tariffs in NSW to Connect

How are Solar Feed-in Tariffs Calculated?

Solar system owners receive payments under the current solar feed-in tariff scheme for selling energy back to the grid. For instance, a solar system owner can sell back 5 kWh to the grid for a solar feed-in tariff if their solar panels generate 10 kWh and only use 5 kWh in their home. The tariffs vary according to state, and retailers provide their plans. 

Contact Move-In Connect to handle all your solar energy connections in one place and we can connect you to 100% renewable energy plans.

You can contact Move-In Connect if you have an issue at 1300 786 045. alternatively, reach out to Move-In Connect through email: complaints@moveinconnect.com.au               

Complaints

A complaint expresses dissatisfaction or a grievance about a service or good. 

A complaint allows us to identify and address a matter or issues that we may not know about.

Our complaints handling process is dynamic. It’s regularly reviewed to ensure your concerns are resolved and to enhance the way we serve you in the future.

• ACT Civil & Administrative Tribunal
  • http://www.acat.act.gov.au 
• Energy & Water Ombudsman NSW
  • https://www.ewon.com.au 
• Energy & Water Ombudsman QLD
  • http://www.ewoq.com.au 
• Energy & Water Ombudsman SA
  • http://www.ewosa.com.au 
• Energy & Water Ombudsman VIC
  • https://www.ewov.com.au 
• Energy & Water Ombudsman TAS
  • https://www.energyombudsman.tas.gov.au