How an embedded network works
In most homes, your meter connects directly to the local network and you choose a retailer. In an embedded network, the whole site has one parent connection to the grid. Behind it, the site owner runs its own private wiring and meters, and on-sells electricity to each unit.
| Feature | Standard connection | Embedded network |
|---|---|---|
| Who bills you | An authorised retailer you choose | The site operator or its billing agent |
| Choice of plan | Any retailer in your area | Usually the operator's price only |
| Regulated by | Full retail rules | AER exemption conditions, plus state rules |
| Free midday offers | Eligible for the Solar Sharer Offer | Not eligible for the Solar Sharer Offer |
You can usually tell from your bill. If it comes from a building manager or a company you have not heard of, and your plan cannot be found on Energy Made Easy, you are probably in an embedded network.
Your protections in an embedded network
- Price limits: under AER exemption conditions, sellers in the National Energy Retail Rules states generally cannot charge more than the local standing offer. In Victoria, prices are capped by the Victorian Default Offer.
- Hardship and disconnection rules: sellers must offer payment plans and follow notice requirements before disconnecting.
- Concessions: you can still claim state concessions, although how you claim may differ. Ask the seller or your state concessions office.
- Ombudsman access: many embedded network sellers belong to their state energy ombudsman. In NSW, sellers have had to join EWON since 1 July 2026.
- Family violence protections: required of exempt sellers from 1 January 2026.
Can you choose your own retailer?
In principle, yes, in most states. In practice, few retailers offer plans inside embedded networks, it may need a meter change, and you may still pay the operator for network costs. Ask the operator and a retailer what it would cost before you start.
Recent and coming changes
- 2023
Victoria limits new embedded networks
Victoria largely banned embedded networks in new residential apartment buildings, with an exception for sites supplied by 100% renewable energy.
- 1 January 2026
AER tightens exemptions
New embedded networks can no longer rely on deemed exemptions and must register with the AER. Exempt sellers must have family violence protections.
- 1 July 2026
More information for residents
Some exempt sellers must publish their prices and put ombudsman contact details on bills. NSW sellers must belong to EWON.
- 2027-28
Default Market Offer coverage
The Default Market Offer is set to apply to embedded network customers from the 2027-28 determination.
If you have a problem
Raise it with the seller first. If it is not resolved, contact your state energy ombudsman, or the AER if the seller is not an ombudsman member. Our complaints guide lists every ombudsman. For rights as a renter in an apartment, see electricity in rental properties.
Questions about embedded networks
A private electricity network that serves multiple homes from one connection to the grid, such as an apartment building, retirement village or caravan park. The site operator buys power in bulk and on-sells it to residents.
There are limits. In the National Energy Retail Rules states, AER exemption conditions generally stop sellers charging more than the local standing offer. In Victoria, embedded network prices are capped by the Victorian Default Offer.
You can ask to buy from an authorised retailer instead, but few retailers offer plans inside embedded networks, a meter change may be needed and you may still pay the operator for network costs. Ask about the full cost first.
No. Embedded network customers are not eligible for the Solar Sharer Offer. In Victoria, some embedded network customers may be able to get the Midday Power Saver.
Start with the seller. If that does not fix it, contact your state energy ombudsman. In NSW, embedded network sellers must belong to EWON from 1 July 2026.
Sources
Every rate on this page comes from the regulator or the regulated retailer. Last checked October 2026. Prices include GST unless we say otherwise.