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Fill out your details online. Our team will find electricity options available at your address.
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Share your connection date and contact details. We send your information to the provider and prepare your account.
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Organise your setup
Enter your address and moving date. We’ll help you plan your electricity connection before you move in.
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Our friendly team will explain your options and recommend the best electricity plan available in your area.
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Guide to Connect Electricity
How To Get Electricity Connected at 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.
Can I choose which electricity providers I use for connecting electricity to new house?
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.
When you compare and move with us, we will compare electricity plans available in your area from the following providers:
How Long Does It Take to Connect Electricity?
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.
- 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
- Confirm Your Move-in Date – Your electricity retailer needs to know when to switch on the power. Most setups happen on weekdays.
- Provide Your Details – You’ll need your address, meter location, and NMI (National Meter Identifier) usually found on the meter.
- Retailer Organises Connection – Your electricity provider will arrange the setup with the distributor.
How do i get started with connecting electricity to a new house?
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.
Connecting Electricity Across State Lines
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.
Metering and Identification
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;
- Check your energy bill to see the name of your energy provider.
- Find your NMI on the bills page near your customer information.
- 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’.
- 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.
Are there different types of electricity meters?
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.
Timeframes and Charges
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.
What Safety Questions Should Be Asked?
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;
- “Are there any renovations or changes planned at the property?”
- “If there has been a disconnection at the site, were any renovations or changes made at that time?”
- “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.
Electricity Tariffs and Bills
When you receive your electricity bill, it typically comprises two components;
- 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.
- 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.
how long does it take to get a new electricity connection in australia?
Normal connection times are between 2 to 3 business days, but you should give your new provider at least 5 business days’ notice to avoid delays. Call Move-In Connect immediately if you need a same-day connection.
It could take longer if you are moving to a new build or development. Read more about connection timelines here: How long does it take to connect electricity to my new home?
How Long Does Setting Up an Energy Connection Take?
Planning to avoid costs when setting up electricity at your new place is essential. If you remember to do it, you can still get it done without fees by requesting it before 11 a.m. on the business day before you move in.
Connecting electricity to homes could take up to 20 days, so check with your builder to ensure that the meter is or will be installed before you move in.
To get started, your retailer must determine when you need power connected. Typically, connections are scheduled on weekdays to avoid weekend fees.
Afterwards, your retailer will collect all the information, such as your address and meter location. We also need your NMI, a number on the meter at your new place.
Once we have all the details, we’ll arrange the connection with your chosen electricity provider.
who will provide my new plan?
We have carefully selected a panel of some of Australia’s leading retailers so we can match you with a plan that suits your needs.
Our panel includes:
- EnergyAustralia
- ActewAGL
- Covau
- Tango Energy
- Blue NRG
- Energy Locals
what documents are required for a new electricity connection in australia?
You will need to supply proof of identification and proof of address to set up an account with a new electricity provider.
As part of our free service, our experts will help you verify your documents and connect electricity online to make the process simple and stress-free.
If you need a new meter installed, you will need to work with your builder or electrician to submit a Request for Work to the relevant distributor to arrange connecting electricity to new house.
how much does it cost to get a new electricity connection in australia?
The cost of setting up electricity in your new home depends on the distribution area you are moving to, the retailer you choose and if you are moving to an existing home or a new build.
Read more about the charges here: Fees for connecting electricity to new house.
More FAQs
how do i arrange for a new electricity connection at my new home in australia?
There are several approaches you can take to moving home electricity. The easiest option is to call Move-In Connect and we can find you a great deal on your new electricity plan from our panel of preferred suppliers and arrange the electricity connection for new house as part of our free service.
Alternatively, you can contact an electricity retailer directly, or talk to your property manager or builder for recommendations about moving electricity connections to a new provider.
can i transfer my current plan when moving home electricity to my new property in australia?
When moving electricity connections to a new home, you may be able to keep your current electricity providers if they offer services in your new area. However, moving home is a great time to compare electricity plans available on the market. Your current plan might not be the cheapest deal for your new home, so we recommend comparing providers before you commit to a new contract.
Moving electricity connections with Move-In Connect is 100% free. Our team will compare electricity plans from our panel of providers and recommend the best deal for your new home (even if it’s your current provider!)
what is the process for disconnecting electricity at my old home in australia?
You should contact your current energy provider to arrange a disconnection date for the day after you plan to move out. This will avoid paying any extra electricity or gas charges for days when you are no longer living in the property.
On the disconnection date, your current provider will take a meter reading to supply you with a final bill. It’s a good idea to also take a meter reading yourself when moving home electricity, in case any discrepancies on your bill arise.
what does an electricity meter number look like?
A National Meter Identifier (NMI) is a unique identifier for your electricity meter. To identify your NMI, look for a 10 or 11-digit number on your bill. If you are in Queensland, it might be prefixed with two letters.
Find out more here: How to take a meter reading when moving electricity and gas.
why does the meter need to be in the off position?
When the technician completes an electricity connection for new house, the meter needs to be in the off position for a successful connection. If your meter is left in the on position, there is a risk that your power will fail to connect.
How Long Does It Take to Activate Your Connection?
For Existing Connections: Reconnecting a property with an electricity connection typically takes 1-3 days. To prevent any delays, it’s advisable to notify your electricity provider.
For New Connections: The process of connecting electricity for the time can span months; therefore, reaching out to your retailer well in advance is recommended.
can i change my meter type?
You can change and upgrade your meter type by contacting your electricity distributor. Upgrading your meter to a smart meter means you can access cheaper off-peak rates from your electricity provider, which can lead to big savings.
If you live in Victoria, you should have already upgraded to a smart meter as they have been made compulsory in the state. When you compare electricity plans, make sure you look at the off-peak rates to maximise the savings from your meter.
what are my electricity main switches?
Main switches can be found in the meter box and secondary switches can be found inside your property. The main switch controls all the electric supply going into your home.
why doesn’t the electricity company switch my main switch on?
Most of the time your main electricity switch is located inside your property which means it will be inaccessible by the technician turning on your power.
In cases where the main switch is accessible by the technician, they will not turn the main switch as a safety precaution, as they cannot ensure that all of your appliances are switched off before turning on the main switch.
why are the visual inspection (vi) times so long?
Electricity distributors regulate the visual safety inspection process and timeframes are dependent on the availability of technicians in your area.
You are only required to be at home if the power has been disconnected. In this case, if no one can attend a visual inspection between the hours of either 8am – 1pm or 1pm – 6pm, keys to your property can be left in the meter box as a last resort if the property is completely vacant.
what is the timeframe for same day connections?
If you have lodged a request for an electricity connection same day, your connection will occur any time between when your request was confirmed and midnight.
You should be aware that there are often fees payable for same day power connections. These “electricity connection same day” fees vary between providers, but can be as high as $400.
how much does it cost for a same day power connection?
Most retailers charge a fee for a same day power connection due to the extra work involved in completing an electricity connection same day.
The “electricity connection same day” fee can be as much as $400.
what is an embedded network?
An embedded network is a privately owned and managed network that supplies electricity to all premises within a specific area or building. Embedded networks are commonly found in apartment complexes, caravan parks, nursing homes and shopping centres. Mostly new apartments and commercial buildings in the CBD of Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane are embedded in networks.
They work by buying electricity in bulk from a retailer and on-selling it to customers. If you are moving electricity connections into a new apartment building, please check with a Move-In Connect expert to find out if you will be part of an embedded network.
We can also help you connect to super-fast 4G and 5G Optus wireless broadband for your internet needs, instead of relying on the building’s slow internet.
what do i do if i have life support in the property?
Move-In Connect receives a commission from the energy retailer or telecommunications retailer when you connect your services to them. This means we can offer our expert advice and services to customers completely free of charge. Connect now to find the best plan for your energy connections by calling 1300 786 045.
what happens to my old connection when i move home in australia?
After you notify your provider of your move-out date, they will issue a final statement and the electricity will be transferred into the name of the new resident.
can i get an electricity account even if i am renting in australia?
You need to check the terms of your lease agreement if you are renting. In some cases, electricity is included in your rent, so you do not need to arrange an electricity plan. In other cases, you will be responsible for connecting electricity to your rental home.
Read more here: How do I connect electricity and gas in my new rental?
can i get a solar electricity plan in australia?
Yes! Talk to a Move-In Connect expert about the latest solar rebates and offers to get solar power connected to your new home.
To decide if solar is right for you you need to consider several factors.
- The upfront costs – initially your savings will be reduced while you pay off your solar system.
- The size of the system you need – is it possible to power your energy consumption with solar?
- How much energy you use during the day vs night – will you need a battery to make solar panels worthwhile?
- The climate – so you live in an area where solar generation will be optimised?
- The feasibility of installing panels in a prime location on your property.
Our panel of electricity providers have a great range of solar energy plans, including high solar feed-in tariffs (FiTs) so you can earn money from the excess energy you generate.
what is the process for getting electricity in a new development in australia?
If you are moving into a new development, you might need to arrange new poles and pipes and a new electricity meter. This can take up to 4 weeks, so make sure you start planning in plenty of time.
Read more here: Important information to connect electricity.
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