Why is my electricity bill higher than expected?
Higher electricity bills are common in shopping centres and retail spaces — especially when trading conditions or weather change.
This checklist will help you identify common causes and what to check first.
Start with your bill
1. Is this bill for more days?
A longer billing period will usually mean a higher total bill.
Tip: Compare usage and cost per day to get a fair comparison.
2. Was the bill estimated?
Estimated bills are based on past usage and may not reflect your actual consumption.
Once an actual meter read is taken, the bill may adjust.
3. Have electricity prices or tariffs changed?
Price or tariff changes can affect your bill even if your business operations stay the same.
Check what’s happening in your store
4. Trading hours
Longer opening hours, late-night trading, or more cleaning after hours can increase electricity use.
5. Air-conditioning and ventilation
Cooling and heating are often the biggest energy costs in shopping centres.
- Running outside trading hours
- Doors left open
- Extreme weather
6. Equipment and lighting
Electricity use can increase due to:
- New or additional equipment
- Refrigeration or food equipment
- Display lighting or signage
- Equipment left on overnight
7. Peak usage
Some businesses are charged more when electricity use peaks at certain times of the day.
High-load equipment running at the same time can increase costs.
Simple ways to reduce future bills
- Turn off non-essential equipment after hours
- Check air-conditioning timers and setpoints
- Maintain refrigeration and HVAC equipment
- Train staff to be energy aware
Need help understanding your bill?
If your bill still doesn’t look right, support is available.
- Request a bill review
- Check whether your tariff suits your business
- Ask about payment options if needed
We’re here to help. Contact us and we can walk through your bill with you.