AGL vs Origin - Compare Plans, Rates & Customer Service
As two of the three biggest energy providers in Australia, it might seem like there isn’t any difference between AGL and Origin Energy. But, are they actually that different? Read on to see our comparison of AGL vs Origin Energy and see their prices, customer service reviews, locations of sevice and more.
AGL vs Origin Energy: Where Do They operate?
The first step when it comes to comparing energy providers in Australia is to find out if they retail electricity and gas services to your area.
Bigger energy providers are usually available in most parts of the National Electricity Market however, AGL does not retail in the ACT, nor does it supply natural gas to Queensland.
Origin Energy, however, is available in the ACT and in Queensland while both AGL and Origin Energy retail natural gas to Western Australia.
| AGL Energy | Origin Energy | |
|---|---|---|
| Electricity Available in: | NSW, VIC, QLD, SA | NSW, VIC, QLD, SA, ACT |
| Natural Gas Available in: | NSW, VIC, QLD, SA, WA | NSW, VIC, QLD, SA, ACT, WA |
AGL vs Origin Plans
In the section below we break down all the options that are available for Origin Energy Plans and AGL energy plans. You can use the drop-down arrows below to read about each plan.
AGL Energy Plans
AGL has three standard plans, ranging from variable rate tariffs to fixed-rate tariffs, all with different benefits. To receive the biggest discount on your bill through AGL, you'll need to choose e-billing, low and variable rates with flexible billing methods, or choose AGL Solar Savers for a higher solar feed-in tariff.
Below the benefits of each tariff is explained.
AGL Basics
Low, variable rates with an ongoing benefit period with flexible billing methods
AGL Value Saver
Variable rates on a 12-month benefit period with a discount off the reference price
AGL Solar Saver
No discount off the reference price but a higher solar feed-in tariff
Origin Energy Plans
Like AGL, Origin Energy also has several different plans available for their customers including two solar energy plans as well as energy plans with variable rates and fixed rates. You will find the details of each below.
Origin Energy Go Variable
12-month fixed rates for gas and electricity with simplified pricing and free Green gas and Green Power. Additional sign up bonus for customers with an Everyday Rewards number. Everyday Rewards members also continue accumulating points through bill pay.
Origin Energy Everyday Rewards Variable
Variable-rate tariff with low rates for gas & electricity with 12-month auto-renewal. E-billing is required. Flexi Rate ePlus is not available in Victoria.
Origin Basic Plan
A variable-rate default market offer for gas and electricity that is equal to the reference price. Auto-renewal and you are capped at the market reference price.
Origin Solar Boost
A variable-rate electricity tariff with 12-month auto-renewal. Only available for existing solar panel systems and offers a high rate for export.
Origin Solar Boost Plus
Only for customers who purchase Origin Energy solar panel systems and offers the highest export offer that Origin allows. Solar panels are available for purchase on a 24-month interest-free payment plan or for one lump sum. Includes maintenance and repairs from Origin Energy's solar technicians.
Who Has Cheaper Electricity Deals: Origin Energy or AGL
As we mentioned above, the main areas Origin and AGL compete on is price and areas of service. If you are looking for the cheapest electricity plans from AGL or Origin Energy, then look no further.
Below, we've taken the cheapest plans from both companies to see how they stack up against each other in terms of price. Find your state below to see the estimated yearly cost and the percent discount off the reference price for AGL vs Origin. For extra information, visit our guides to AGL electricity and gas rates, and Origin Energy rates
New South Wales
With their cheapest plans, Origin Energy and AGL's rates are almost identical in New South Wales. Therefore, if you are looking to compare plans for these two providers, it's best to look at what other added benefits you will receive apart from price.
| Plan Name | Estimated Yearly Cost | Discount off the Reference Price |
|---|---|---|
| *Cheapest! SUMO Assure |
$1,330 / year | 27% discount |
| Origin Energy Go Variable | $1,640 / year | 10% discount |
| AGL Super Saver | $1,730 / year | 5% discount |
Source: Sumo, AGL and Origin Energy websites. Valid December 2024. Discounts and annual cost based on the reference price for each capital city. Comparison does not include all offers available. *Chepest means that this plan is the cheapeset among the Selectra's recommened plans.
A comparison of AGL and Origin Energy showed that Origin Energy is cheaper than AGL in the NSW region. We also compared the above two companies with Selectra's recommended electricity provider and found that SUMO Energy is the cheapest. SUMO is recommended for switching to the cheapest electricity plan in NSW. Valid December 2024.
Australian Capital Territory
AGL doesn't offer energy in the Australian Capital Territory, therefore in this comparison, Origin Energy wins out simply because they serve the area.
| Plan Name | Estimated Yearly Cost | Discount off the Reference Price |
|---|---|---|
| Origin Energy Go Variable | $1,550 / year | 39% discount |
| *Second Cheapest! Energy Locals Online Member |
$2,030 / year | 20% discount |
| AGL Value Saver | N/A | N/A |
Source: Energy Locals, AGL and Origin Energy websites. Valid December 2024. Discounts and annual cost based on the reference price for each capital city. Comparison does not include all offers available. *Chepest means that this plan is the cheapeset among the Selectra's recommened plans.
A comparison of AGL and Origin Energy showed that Origin Energy is cheaper than AGL in the ACT region. We also compared the above two companies with Selectra's recommended electricity provider and found that Energy Locals is the cheapest. Energy Locals is recommended for switching to the cheapest electricity plan in ACT. Valid December 2024.
Victoria
In Victoria, AGL works out to be a bit cheaper than Origin Energy when comparing the following 2 plans.
| Plan Name | Estimated Yearly Cost | Discount off the Reference Price |
|---|---|---|
| *Cheapest! SUMO Select |
$1,010 / year | 20% discount |
| Origin Energy Go Variable | $1,170 / year | 21% discount |
| AGL Value Saver | $1,340 / year | 9% discount |
Source: Sumo, AGL and Origin Energy websites. Valid December 2024. Discounts and annual cost based on the reference price for each capital city. Comparison does not include all offers available. *Chepest means that this plan is the cheapeset among the Selectra's recommened plans.
A comparison of AGL and Origin Energy showed that Origin Energy is cheaper than AGL in the VIC region. We also compared the above two companies with Selectra's recommended electricity provider and found that SUMO Energy is the cheapest. SUMO is recommended for switching to the cheapest electricity plan in VIC. Valid December 2024.
Queensland
In our comparison for Queensland, AGL came out a bit cheaper than Origin Energy thanks to their 18% discount off the reference price.
| Plan Name | Estimated Yearly Cost | Discount off the Reference Price |
|---|---|---|
| *Cheapest! SUMO Assure |
$1,390 / year | 29% discount |
| Origin Energy Go Variable | $1,870 / year | 5% discount |
| AGL Value Saver | $1,960 / year | 3% discount |
Source: Sumo, AGL and Origin Energy websites. Valid December 2024. Discounts and annual cost based on the reference price for each capital city. Comparison does not include all offers available. *Chepest means that this plan is the cheapeset among the Selectra's recommened plans.
A comparison of AGL and Origin Energy showed that Origin Energy is cheaper than AGL in the QLD region. We also compared the above two companies with Selectra's recommended electricity provider and found that SUMO Energy is the cheapest. SUMO is recommended for switching to the cheapest electricity plan in QLD. Valid December 2024.
South Australia
In South Australia, Origin Energy beat AGL on price and was over $100 cheaper.
| Plan Name | Estimated Yearly Cost | Discount off the Reference Price |
|---|---|---|
| *Cheapest! Ovo Energy The One Plan |
$1,760 / year | 23% discount |
| Origin Energy Value | $1,890 / year | 17% discount |
| AGL Value Saver | $2,110 / year | 7% discount |
Source: Ovo, AGL and Origin Energy websites. Valid December 2024. Discounts and annual cost based on the reference price for each capital city. Comparison does not include all offers available. *Chepest means that this plan is the cheapeset among the Selectra's recommened plans.
A comparison of AGL and Origin Energy showed that Origin Energy is cheaper than AGL in the SA region. We also compared the above two companies with Selectra's recommended electricity provider and found that Ovo Energy is the cheapest. Ovo Energy is recommended for switching to the cheapest electricity plan in SA. Valid December 2024.
Who Has Cheaper Gas Deals: Origin Energy or AGL
Whether you’re looking to bundle electricity and gas or just need a new gas provider, you can discover both AGL gas plans and Origin Energy gas plans.
Below you can find the cheapest gas plans AGL and Origin Energy offer, priced at the average medium usage for each capital city.
| State & Average Usage | AGL Value Saver |
Origin Energy Go Variable |
|---|---|---|
| New South Wales 18,542Mj / year |
$860 / year | $960 / year |
| ACT 38,544Mj / year |
N / A | $1,230 / year |
| Victoria 58,035Mj / year |
$1,080 / year | $1,040 / year |
| Qld 7,154Mj / year |
$720 / year | $770 / year |
| South Australia 10,987Mj / year |
$960 / year | $980 / year |
Source: Origin Energy and AGL websites. Valid December 2024. Discounts and annual cost based on the Basic Plan Information Document for each capital city. Comparison does not include all offers available.
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AGL vs Origin Energy: Solar Feed-in tariffs
If you have a solar PV system, or are interested in investing in solar energy, knowing your energy company’s solar feed-in tariff is as important as knowing their rates and discounts. Below, you can find a comparison of AGL and Origin Energy solar feed-in tariffs, for their solar energy plans, and their basic FiT for their standard plans.
| Plan Name | NSW | ACT | VIC | QLD | SA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AGL Solar Savers FiT | 12c | N / A | 12c | 12c | 12c |
| AGL Basic FiT | 5c | N / A | 4.9c | 5c | 6c |
| Origin Solar Boost Plus | 14c to 20c | 14c to 20c | 14c to 20c | 14c to 20c | 14c to 20c |
| Origin Solar Boost | 12c | 12c | 12c | 12c | 12c |
| Origin Energy Basic FiT | 7c | 8c | 4.9c | 5c | 6c |
Valid December 2024. Must purchase solar panels through Origin Energy to get Solar Boost Plus rates.
Should I Sign up for AGL or Origin Energy?
The best energy provider is the one that fits your household’s needs, whether that's the cheapest provider, the one with the best customer service, or the provider that can get you the most back from your solar PV system. Regardless of your criteria, both AGL and Origin Energy offer something for every household.
AGL plan name AGL plan description AGL Essentials Get a total discount with fixed rates for 12 months AGL Essentials Saver Variable rates on a simple home energy plan AGL Solar A smaller discount off the reference price with a higher solar feed-in-tariff AGL Electric Vehicle Plan Exclusive for EV owners. Get discounted energy rates and additional credits (up to $480 over two years) to help save while charging your car
Origin Energy Electricity and Gas Plans
Origin Energy offers five electricity and gas plans to Australians. These Origin Energy electricity and gas plans come with flexible billing and payment options, as well as numerous incentives with their plans.
| Origin Energy Plan Name | Origin Energy Plan Description |
|---|---|
| Origin Go | Get a discount off the reference price and earn Everyday Rewards |
| Origin Flexi | Flexible billing and payment methods with discounted electricity and gas |
| Origin Solar Boost | No additional discounts but get a higher solar feed-in-tariff |
| Origin Solar Boost Plus | Exclusive for customers who purchase solar PV systems with Origin Energy. Get the highest solar feed-in-tariff on the market |
Compare AGL vs Origin Energy Review
Outside of cost, rates, and solar, it can be helpful to look at other factors when comparing energy providers. Here you can find a summarised comparison of Origin Energy and AGL. For a full review of each provider, see our Origin Energy Review and AGL Review.
| Category | AGL | Origin Energy |
|---|---|---|
| Average Customer Review | 1.5 out of 5 stars | 1.4 out of 5 stars |
| Electricity Offered in | NSW, VIC, QLD, SA | NSW, VIC, QLD, SA, ACT |
| Gas Offered in | NSW, VIC, QLD, SA, WA | NSW, VIC, QLD, SA, ACT, WA |
| Green Power Options | 10%, 20% or 100% | 25%, 50% or 100% |
| Solar Energy Options | Solar Panels & Feed-in Tariff | Solar Panels & Feed-in Tariff |
| Greenpeace "Green Electricity Rating" | 1.29 / 10 | 1.6 / 10 |
| Average customer call wait time* | 34 seconds | 145 seconds |
| % of Customer Calls Answered Within 30 Seconds* | 80% | 53% |
| Number of Customer Complaints* | 3% of total customers 41,703 complaints |
1% of total customers 26,598 complaints |
*Source: AER Retail Market Report 2019-2020
AGL and Origin Energy are really similar when you take a look at the comparison table above.
One of the main differences is going to be where they each operate and the strength of their green energy programs. If you aren't interested in green energy, then the difference between the two providers for you will likely come down to location and price.
Compare the Cheapest Electricity Rates & Plans
In searching for the best electricity plan, it is important to compare electricity rates from all the top energy retailers. Below we have compared the rates, per state, for a few of Selectra’s top choices for energy retailers.
Compare Electricity Rates in New South Wales
| Rank | Energy Provider + Plan | Estimated Yearly Price | Additional Information |
|---|---|---|---|
 SUMO Assure |
$1,330 / year | Benefits: Solar Feed-In & Smart Meter Compatible Daily Supply Charge: 88.00c/day |
|
 Ovo Energy The One Plan |
$1,430 / year | Benefits: GreenPower Daily Supply Charge: 82.50c/day |
|
 Energy Locals Online Member |
$1,610 / year | Benefits: Solar Feed-In, GreenPower & Smart Meter Compatible Daily Supply Charge: 57.00c/day |
|
| Origin Go Variable | $1,640 / year | Benefits: Solar Feed-In, GreenPower & Smart Meter Compatible Daily Supply Charge: 88.02c/day |
|
| EnergyAustralia Flexi Plan | $1,640 / year | Benefits: Solar Feed-In & GreenPower Daily Supply Charge: 95.70c/day |
|
| AGL Value Saver | $1,730 / year | Benefits: Solar Feed-In & GreenPower Daily Supply Charge: 87.58c/day |
*Figures are for illustrative purposes only and don't compare all products, providers, plan features, offers, or rates. Products are compared like-for-like and any distinctions between products are clearly marked. Not all offers may be available in all locations or distribution networks. Rates based on electricity distributor for Sydney (2000) with an average use of 3900kWh. Calculations are based on the reference price for this area. Any offers or estimated costs compared are for example purposes only and may change based on your individual circumstances or habits. Selectra advises you to do your own research at energymadeeasy.com before determining if you should sign up for a new energy plan. Offers and availability are subject to change. Read more about Basic Plan Information here. Valid December 2024.
Important Information Show Less
Compare Electricity Rates in Australian Capital Territory
| Rank | Energy Provider + Plan | Estimated Yearly Price | Additional Information |
|---|---|---|---|
| Origin Go Variable | $1,550 / year | Benefits: Solar Feed-In, GreenPower & Smart Meter Compatible Daily Supply Charge: 104.83c/day |
|
Energy Locals Online Member |
$2,030 / year | Benefits: Solar Feed-In, GreenPower & Smart Meter Compatible Daily Supply Charge: 59.00c/day |
|
| Energy Australia Flexi Plan | $2,050 / year | Benefits: Solar Feed-In, GreenPower & Smart Meter Compatible Daily Supply Charge: 104.04c/day |
*Figures are for illustrative purposes only and don't compare all products, providers, plan features, offers, or rates. Products are compared like-for-like and any distinctions between products are clearly marked. Not all offers may be available in all locations or distribution networks. Rates based on electricity distributor for Canberra (2600) with an average use of 6100kWh. Calculations are based on the reference price for this area. Any offers or estimated costs compared are for example purposes only and may change based on your individual circumstances or habits. Selectra advises you to do your own research at energymadeeasy.com before determining if you should sign up for a new energy plan. Offers and availability are subject to change. Read more about Basic Plan Information here. Valid December 2024.
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Compare Electricity Rates in Victoria
| Rank | Energy Provider + Plan | Estimated Yearly Price | Additional Information |
|---|---|---|---|
SUMO Select |
$1,010 / year | Benefits: No Lock-In Contract Daily Supply Charge: 105.27c/day |
|
Ovo Energy The One Plan |
$1,050 / year | Benefits: Ongoing Contract & Interest Rewards Daily Supply Charge: 108.90/day |
|
Energy Locals Online Member |
$1,120 / year | Benefits: No Lock-In Contract, Solar Feed-In & $50 Referral Credit Daily Supply Charge: 52.38c/day |
|
| Origin Go Variable | $1,170 / year | Benefits: No Lock-In Contract Daily Supply Charge: 91.05c/day |
|
| EnergyAustralia Flexi Plan | $1,190 / year | Benefits: Carbon Neutral, 1 Year Benefit Plan & $50 Onlne Sign Up Credit Daily Supply Charge: 115.25c/day |
|
| AGL Residential Value Saver | $1,340 / year | Benefits: Solar Feed-In, Variable Rate Plan & GreenPower Daily Supply Charge: 103.72c/day |
*Figures are for illustrative purposes only and don't compare all products, providers, plan features, offers, or rates. Products are compared like-for-like and any distinctions between products are clearly marked. Not all offers may be available in all locations or distribution networks. Rates based on electricity distributor for Melbourne (3000) with an average use of 4,000kWh/year. Calculations are based on the reference price for this area. Any offers or estimated costs compared are for example purposes only and may change based on your individual circumstances or habits. Selectra advises you to do your own research at energymadeeasy.com before determining if you should sign up for a new energy plan. Offers and availability are subject to change. Read more about Basic Plan Information here. Valid December 2024.
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Compare Electricity Rates in Queensland
| Rank | Energy Provider + Plan | Estimated Yearly Price | Additional Information |
|---|---|---|---|
SUMO Assure Advantage |
$1,390 / year | Benefits: Solar Feed-In & Smart Meter Compatible Daily Supply Charge: 101.20c/day |
|
Ovo Energy The One Plan |
$1,540 / year | Benefits: Solar Feed-In, GreenPower & Smart Meter Compatible Daily Supply Charge: 93.50c/day |
|
| EnergyAustralia Basic Home | $1,620 / year | Benefits: Solar Feed-In, GreenPower & Smart Meter Compatible Daily Supply Charge: 103.95c/day |
|
Energy Locals Online Member |
$1,740 / year | Benefits: Solar Feed-In, GreenPower & Smart Meter Compatible Daily Supply Charge: 85.00c/day |
|
| Origin Go Variable | $1,870 / year | Benefits: Solar Feed-In, GreenPower & Smart Meter Compatible Daily Supply Charge: 127.29c/day |
|
| AGL Residential Value Saver | $1,960 / year | Benefits: Solar Feed-In, GreenPower & Smart Meter Compatible Daily Supply Charge: 133.36c/day |
*Figures are for illustrative purposes only and don't compare all products, providers, plan features, offers, or rates. Products are compared like-for-like and any distinctions between products are clearly marked. Not all offers may be available in all locations or distribution networks. Rates based on electricity distributor for Brisbane (4000) with an average use of 4,600kwh/year. Calculations are based on the reference price for this area. Any offers or estimated costs compared are for example purposes only and may change based on your individual circumstances or habits. Selectra advises you to do your own research at energymadeeasy.com before determining if you should sign up for a new energy plan. Offers and availability are subject to change. Read more about Basic Plan Information here. Valid December 2024.
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Compare Electricity Rates in South Australia
| Rank | Energy Provider + Plan | Estimated Yearly Price | Additional Information |
|---|---|---|---|
Ovo Energy The One Plan |
$1,760 / year | Benefits: Solar Feed-In, GreenPower & Smart Meter Compatible Daily Supply Charge: 106.15c/day |
|
SUMO Lite Residential |
$1,840 / year | Benefits: Solar Feed-In Daily Supply Charge: 101.00c/day |
|
| Origin Value | $1,890 / year | Benefits: Solar Feed-In Daily Supply Charge: 108.67c/day |
|
Energy Locals Online Member |
$2,080 / year | Benefits: Solar Feed-In, GreenPower & Smart Meter Compatible Daily Supply Charge: 78.00c/day |
|
| AGL Residential Value Saver | $2,110 / year | Benefits: Solar Feed-In Daily Supply Charge: 106.66c/day |
|
| EnergyAustralia Flexi Plan | $2,270 / year | Benefits: Solar Feed-In Daily Supply Charge: 104.50c/day |
*Figures are for illustrative purposes only and don't compare all products, providers, plan features, offers, or rates. Products are compared like-for-like and any distinctions between products are clearly marked. Not all offers may be available in all locations or distribution networks. Rates based on electricity distributor for Adelaide (5000) with an average use of 4000kWh. Calculations are based on the reference price for this area. Any offers or estimated costs compared are for example purposes only and may change based on your individual circumstances or habits. Selectra advises you to do your own research at energymadeeasy.com before determining if you should sign up for a new energy plan. Offers and availability are subject to change. Read more about Basic Plan Information here. Valid December 2024.
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