Electricity bill guide
Why has my electricity usage increased?
A higher bill does not always mean you used more electricity. If the kWh or average daily usage really has increased, working through the bill methodically can help narrow down what changed.
Start with average daily usage
Compare average daily kWh rather than relying only on the total consumption figure. This reduces the effect of different billing-period lengths.
Consider changes at home
Weather, heating or cooling, additional people at home, new appliances, changed routines and equipment running for longer can all affect consumption. The bill itself may show the increase, but it usually cannot identify the exact appliance or behaviour responsible.
Check the meter-read information
If one of the bills uses an estimated meter read, be cautious about treating the apparent change as a precise like-for-like measurement. Check the provider's meter-read information and subsequent bills.
Separate usage from price
If average daily usage did not rise much but the amount charged did, usage may not be the main reason for the higher bill. Check usage rates, supply charges and other line items as well.
Related: why is my electricity bill so high? and how to compare bills properly.
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