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2026-27 rates are live. DMO, VDO and solar feed-in tariffs updated for July 2026. See what changed

Business energy

Small Business Electricity Prices 2026-27 and How to Compare

The same price protections that cover homes also cover small businesses. Here are the 2026-27 caps and how to find a better deal.

Checked against regulator sources, October 2026

Small business electricity prices in 2026-27

Default Market Offer for small businesses, 2026-27
Network areaFlat rateTime of useChange
Ausgrid (Sydney, Hunter)$4,523$4,450-9.1%
Endeavour (Western Sydney, Illawarra)$4,343$4,326-9%
Essential (regional NSW)$5,517$4,919-11.3%
Energex (South East Queensland)$3,849$3,693-10.4%
SA Power Networks$5,162$4,868-6.8%
AER, DMO 2026-27 final determination, table 2.2. Yearly price for 10,000 kWh, GST included. Change is for the flat rate compared with 2025-26.

These are maximum standing offer prices. Market offers are often lower. In Victoria, the Essential Services Commission sets a Victorian Default Offer for small businesses as well as homes. In WA, the NT, Tasmania and regional Queensland, prices for small businesses are set by the government or state regulator.

Comparing business energy plans

  1. Find your usage and tariff

    Check the kWh on your last few bills, and whether you are on flat, time of use or demand pricing.

  2. Compare against the DMO

    Retailers must show their price as a percentage above or below the DMO, so you can compare offers like for like.

  3. Check contract terms

    Business contracts can have fixed terms and exit fees, and some are priced for larger users.

  4. Look at when you use power

    Businesses that run in the middle of the day may suit time-of-use pricing or rooftop solar.

Help for small businesses

  • Energy ombudsman schemes take complaints from small businesses as well as homes. See making a complaint.
  • If you are struggling to pay, contact your retailer early and ask about payment arrangements.
  • Rooftop solar and batteries earn the same federal STC discounts for small businesses. See STCs.

Household concessions do not apply

Energy concessions and most rebates are for households, not businesses. Check eligibility on each rebate page.

Common questions

For 10,000 kWh a year, the flat-rate DMO ranges from $3,849 in South East Queensland to $5,517 in the Essential Energy area of regional NSW, GST included.

Yes. Energy Made Easy lets small businesses compare plans in most states. In Victoria, use Victorian Energy Compare.

The DMO prices quoted by the AER include GST. Registered businesses can usually claim the GST back as an input tax credit.

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.