The states hardest-hit by power bill hikes

Comparison website Finder said 79 per cent of Australians planned to cut back on electricity usage in winter – but many are still facing bigger bills than last year.

“Millions of Aussies need a reprieve and are taking matters into their own hands by cutting their usage,” Finder energy expert Mariam Gabaji said.

“Some retailers are sending out notices informing customers of massive increases to their power rates which will lead to widespread bill shock without urgent action.”

South Australians are facing the biggest price hikes, with annual estimates for residential households expecting a price jump of between 22 and 63 per cent, or as much as $800 a year.

New South Wales bills will climb 15 to 36 per cent, up to $420.

Victoria energy prices have been bumped 22 to 31 per cent, up to $396.

In Queensland annual estimates climbed eight to 41 per cent, or up to $548 a year.

Read Related Also: Baltimore squeegee kid convicted of manslaughter

Finder’s survey showed 56 per cent of Australians planned to switch off lights and power points when not in use, while 54 per cent would have to cut down on how much they used their heater and air conditioner.

Nine per cent will ditch their work-from-home plans and head into the office to reduce power usage.

Gabaji said switching to a cheaper energy plan was the most effective way for households to safeguard themselves.

“Make sure you’re on one of the cheapest plans and switch again in six to 12 months if you find a better deal,” she said.

“Call your retailer to negotiate a cheaper deal while simultaneously shopping around to see if you can do even better with another provider.”

She also recommended people check if they were eligible for government bill relief, and in “extreme difficulty” talk to their retailer about their hardship program.