Turn an offer's 'X% less than the reference price' statement into an estimated yearly dollar figure at the reference usage.
Every electricity offer advertised in a DMO region (NSW, South East Queensland, South Australia) or in Victoria must show how its price compares with the reference price: the DMO set by the AER or the VDO set by the Essential Services Commission. The comparison is expressed as a percentage, such as "10% less than the reference price", and it is calculated at a set annual usage for that distribution zone and tariff type.
Formula. Difference = reference price × percentage ÷ 100 + one-off credit. Estimated cost = reference price − difference.
What to enter. Use the annual DMO or VDO amount for your distribution zone and tariff type (flat, time-of-use, with or without controlled load) from the AER's or ESC's 2026–27 decision. Enter the percentage shown in the offer's price comparison statement, not a conditional discount.
Worked example (illustrative). Reference price $2,000 a year; offer stated as 12% less: 2,000 × 12 ÷ 100 = $240 lower, so about $1,760 a year at the reference usage.
Limits. The result only holds at the reference usage. If you use much more or less power, or use it at different times, the real gap changes; compare on Energy Made Easy or Victorian Energy Compare with your own usage. An offer priced above the reference price shows a positive percentage 'more than'; this tool cannot take negative values, so add that difference manually. Read the reference price guide. Default inputs are illustrative.
Bill Mistakes, Complaints and Official Help
The electricity and gas plan mistakes that cost Australian households most — ended benefit periods, conditional discounts, wrong tariff, ignoring supply charges, solar and gas pitfalls.
Price Factors, Tariffs and 2026 Rules
The AER's DMO 8 for 2026–27 explained — regions covered, how prices moved in NSW, South East Queensland and South Australia, what the cap applies to and how to use it.
Price Factors, Tariffs and 2026 Rules
What the reference price percentage on Australian electricity offers means, how it is calculated against the DMO or VDO, and why your own usage can change the answer.
Price Factors, Tariffs and 2026 Rules
The ESC's VDO for 1 July 2026 to 30 June 2027 explained — the typical bill change, the five distribution zones, the solar soak period and how to compare offers.
