Selecting the best energy provider and deal can be difficult. It is worth taking the time to research and consider your options, as finding the right deal can lead to great savings off your energy bill!

Follow this process to select an energy provider to make sure you consider all your options.

Consider your current situation Look at your last energy bill. How much energy was used altogether? What period of the day do you use the most amount of energy? By understanding where your costs are coming from, you should be able to determine what you need from an energy contract. If the majority of your energy usage is in the evening when everyone is at home, consider a plan with an off-peak option. However, make sure you check the off-peak conditions and times with the provider to make sure it fits in with your household usage.

Be energy efficient Now you know what your energy usage is, consider ways you can reduce it. Introduce your family/housemates to a few simple habits such as turning off the light when they leave a room. These small actions can add up to significant savings.

Do your research There are a lot of different deals available in the market. Remember, don’t just look for other companies to move to; there may also be a better deal within your existing company. There are a range of different types of contracts and products, including Green Power, where renewable energy is purchased by the provider on your behalf; Dual fuel, where your electricity and gas plan is bundled into one; and many different off-peak options. Compare the different plans available to determine how much you can save by switching.

Read the fine print Once you have found a deal which looks good, make sure you read the contract carefully. Important things to look out for include:

• The duration of the contract. How long do you have to remain with the provider?
• What additional fees and charges apply?
• Is the contract transferable if you move house?
• How often are bills sent and which payment methods are accepted?
• Are you eligible for any concessions, rebates or discounts? If so, what conditions apply?
• If you enter into a Duel Fuel contract, will you receive a combined or separate bill?

By following the steps above, you should be able to find the deal which best suits your households energy consumption.