Before we dive into the gadgets, let’s take a look ‘under the hood’ and understand your energy habits first.  

Understanding your energy habits

Before we dive into the gadgets, it’s important to first ‘look under the hood’ and understand your energy habits. Understanding the way you use energy at home, is the first step to taking control and understanding which smart devices might be most beneficial for your household.

If your home has a smart meter, you can see a breakdown of your daily usage patterns with My Account or the Origin app. Smart meters collect your usage data in regular intervals, usually every 30 minutes, and securely send it to us – your energy provider. We’ll even show you weather data for each day, so you can see how the temperature affects your usage habits (and adjust them – either manually or by using smart devices – accordingly).  
 
If your property doesn’t have a smart meter, not to worry. You can do an energy audit in under 10 minutes to help identify which rooms and appliances are using the most energy in your home – and come up with a plan for optimising them.  

Now that you’re familiar with your usage patterns, let’s jump into the different devices that can help automate and optimise your energy usage.

Smart hubs and voice assistants

Smart hubs (such as Amazon Echo, Google Nest Hub and Samsung SmartThings) go beyond just playing music and helping you access recipes in the kitchen. These devices can act as the ‘conductor’ of the smart home – orchestrating an array of devices from smart lighting to thermostats and plugs, helping automate your energy savings.  

Smart plugs

Smart plugs are a great entry point when it comes to kitting out your home with smart devices. They allow you to automate your appliances – think shutting off your TV, computer, lamps, toasters – and avoid the drain of standby power in your home (which could be costing you up to $176.99 per year).   

Beyond using smart plugs as automated timers though, many models can also measure the flow of electricity to particular appliances, so you can better understand how energy is being consumed around your home. 

As an example, the TP-Link HS110 Smart Plug can display how much energy an appliance is using and how that consumption has been tracking over time, allowing you to make informed choices about your energy use. This can also help you identify appliances that may be using more power than they should, and might need an upgrade.  

Smart power strips

Smart power strips are advanced versions of traditional power boards that can automatically cut power to devices when they’re not in use. Like smart plugs, they can help you save on standby power and provide insight into how much power the appliances plugged into the board are consuming.  
 
These are especially handy for people who work from home, allowing you to schedule your PC, printer and other office devices to shut off automatically when your workday is over. Saving energy and your work life balance as well.

Smart lighting

Smart lighting consists of LED bulbs, light switches, or fixtures that can be controlled remotely via a smartphone app or voice assistant (Google Assistant, Alexa, Siri). These lights offer advanced features like dimming (lowering power consumption and extending bulb life), scheduling, motion detection, and even colour adjustments – helping to improve energy efficiency (or in the case of the latter, productivity or rest depending on which colour you choose). 

Smart bulbs are LED-based – consuming up to 75% less energy than traditional incandescent or halogen bulbs – and allow you to turn your lights on or off from the palm of your hand (or via your voice assistant),helping to reduce unnecessary usage. You can even schedule them to come on when you arrive home from work and switch off as you go to bed.   

Depending on the type of smart bulb or lighting solution you choose, some even have motion sensors – automatically turning lights off when a room is empty – or adaptive lighting capabilities, adjusting brightness based on the time of day (for example, dimming the lights in the evening). 

Smart lighting can also integrate with other smart devices such as smart plugs and thermostats, allowing you to further optimise your energy usage.  

Smart thermostats for heating and cooling

Smart thermostats are Wi-Fi-enabled devices that control your home’s heating and cooling systems more efficiently than their traditional counterparts.  

Depending on the model you choose, they offer the ability to turn your AC or heater on or off from the palm of your hand (or via your voice assistant), helping to prevent unnecessary usage. Some models can adjust the temperature based on how hot or cold it is outside, helping to reduce the strain on your AC or heating system.

Motion sensors and occupancy sensors

Smart motion sensors and occupancy sensors detect movement in a room and automatically control lights, appliances, or heating and cooling based on whether someone is present. In some cases certain models won’t even turn on lights in the home if enough natural light is detected.

Beyond integrating with smart lighting and bulbs, some motion and occupancy sensors can also link in with smart thermostats and adjust the heating or cooling when a room is occupied or empty. 

Solar panel inverters

If you have solar installed, solar panel inverters are a great way to keep track of your usage. Many inverters can connect to your home’s wireless network and provide live energy usage and energy generation data that you can view on your smartphone. When you turn on the dishwasher, gaming console or air-con, you can instantly see how much energy it uses and adjust your usage patterns to align with when your system is generating the most power throughout the day. Allowing you to reduce your reliance on the grid and maximise the value of the energy you’re generating from your panels during the day.

Smart appliances

If your home has solar, and you’re in the market for new appliances, many newer whitegoods – such as dishwashers, washing machines and dryers – are often equipped with smart technology which links to various mobile apps, allowing you to set delays when running your loads of washing and dishes. Making it easy for you to set your energy-heavy appliances to run when your solar is generating the most. 

Thinking about solar?

We can help you on your way to energy independence with tools, information, access to solar quotes from our preferred partners, plus more. In less than 10 minutes, you can arrange up to 3 free solar and battery quotes from our preferred partners for your property. You can also check out recommended solar system sizes, potential bill savings, and more. It’s free and without obligation*

*Origin has a commercial agreement with our partner installers and receives a commission from them for each referral.

The post Smart devices to help you save energy appeared first on The Origin Blog.

1. Take photos of everything

Moving house is a really busy time, so you’re bound to forget a few details. Take photos of which cables go where at the back of your TV, where screws go on flat pack furniture or the way your favourite shelves are arranged so you can put them back together just right!

2. Avoid single use packing items

Running out of bubble wrap or just want to be kinder to the environment? Wrap breakables like plates and glasses in clothing to cut bubble wrap from your shopping list.

3. For the jewellery lovers

Toilet paper rolls, zip lock bags and egg cartons are perfect for getting your jewellery from A to B – without the headache of tangled pieces.

4. Sticky tape is your friend

Packing tape is a moving essential, so you should have this one on hand already. You can use it while you’re taking furniture apart to keep all the screws together or to remember which cables go where on your TV or computer.

5. Prevent tangles

To avoid a serious cable tangle, pack your cords in empty toilet paper rolls and remember to label them. Or if you haven’t been collecting toilet rolls for the past six months, you can use zip lock bags instead.

6. Vacuum bags

Items like pillows, blankets and bulky coats take up lots of space when packing. Save room and money by using garbage bags instead of expensive space saver bags – all you need to get started is a regular garbage bag, a vacuum clear and a rubber band.

7. The moving kit

The last thing you want to be doing after a long day of packing is scrambling to remember which box you put your PJs in. Put together a bag of all the essentials you’ll need for your first night in the new digs – think toiletries, towels and bedding.

Now that you’ve got these moving hacks under your belt, you can move online with Origin in less than five minutes. Simply book your move with an energy plan that suits your needs and your done.

8. Box skills

To make unpacking as easy as possible at the other end, colour code boxes by using a different coloured tape for each room. And if you want to take your box game to the next level, try cutting handles into the side of boxes and make them easier to carry.

9. Bundle and save

We’re all looking for better value – especially when it comes to the ‘must-haves’ in our homes – so why not bundle your energy and internet and save? Our customers can bundle their energy and internet and get $10 off their internet bill each month. Over the year, that’s $120 of savings that you get right back in your pocket!

Not only do our internet plans offer great speeds and customer support, we’ve also thrown in a mountain of entertainment for you to enjoy with 12 months of Paramount+ on us. 

You’ll also save on life admin, as you’ll only have to deal with the one provider for your energy and internet. Who doesn’t love a little extra time back in their day?

The post 9 life hacks for a stress-free move appeared first on The Origin Blog.

Who do I need to contact?

If you experience a blackout, it’s important to contact your local distributor. Your energy distributor is the company that owns and operates the poles, wires and grid that provide your home with energy. Your distributor’s determined by where you live so you don’t get to choose them – unlike your energy retailer (Origin).

Your local distributor can provide info about the cause of the outage and will likely be able to provide you with an estimated time when the power will be restored in your area.

How do I find my energy distributor?

Some postcodes have several distributors. If you see more than one listed you can confirm which one services your area by looking at your bill. Their number will be listed under ‘Faults and Emergencies’.

If you don’t have your bill handy, we’ve got you covered. Just pop your postcode into our Distributor Look-up Tool and we’ll tell you who your distributor is.

My power’s out, what do I do?

Your number one priority during a power outage is to stay safe.

Be energy safe

Be careful not to burn yourself when using candles and other open flames for light, and keep naked flames away from any flammable materials.

Food safety

Try to keep your cold and frozen food cold by moving it all to the freezer and only opening the freezer and fridge when necessary to keep it as cold as possible. 

It’s generally recommended that food can be kept and eaten for up to 4 hours and then it must be thrown away or, if it’s raw meat, cooked and eaten. When your power’s restored, if your frozen food is still solid, the food should be safe to refreeze – but approach this on a case by case basis.

If you have any questions, contact the Department of Health and Human Services on 1300 364 352. 

In the event of an extended power outage, you may be eligible for a credit to reimburse you for spoiled goods. Your local distributor will be able to advise whether you’re eligible for this.

Take care of one another

If you have neighbours or relatives that may have special needs (such as the elderly or those with a disability), be supportive. Check up on them to make sure they’re safe and provide assistance where you can.

If a neighbour or relative has life support, and their supply has been affected, help assist them to the nearest hospital if safe to do so. If it’s not safe, reach out to the ambulance service by calling triple zero (000).

What will happen to my solar system?

When you initially connect your solar system to the network, you need to abide by the network’s connection standard. This means the inverter must follow grid operation. So if the grid’s down the inverter needs to, and will, shut down automatically.

This is because linesmen may be harmed when repairing faulty electricity wires travelling back into the grid from your solar system. After the repairs have been made, your solar power system will automatically turn on during daylight hours. If you have a battery backup system connected to your solar system, then depending on the wiring, some internal services like your fridge could still be operated by the batteries.

I have an electric garage door, what should I do?

Many garage doors feature a manual release function to bypass the opening mechanism during power outages, so don’t fear. To activate this, depending on your door, there will be a short rope hanging down that usually ends with a red, T-shaped handle. Pull this cord to release the door from the drive chain or belt. 

Pulling this cord will allow you to manually raise your garage door. When power comes back on, you may have to manually reset your garage door’s automatic opening system. If you have any issues, contact your garage door installer.

What if a natural disaster or emergency is occurring?

If a flood or bushfire has caused a power outage in your home, you need to act appropriately.

Floods or storms

If you’re impacted by flooding or a damaging storm, your best point of contact is your State Emergency Service (SES):

• NSW SES
• VIC SES
• QLD Disaster Management
• SA SES
• ACT ESA
• WA Emergency
• Secure NT

Bushfires

Electricity and natural gas supplies are often disconnected during bushfires for safety reasons. Contact your local distributor to get an update on whether a disconnection has occurred.

If you’re in a high-risk location for a bushfire, contact your state fire service:

• NSW Rural Fire Service
• VIC Emergency & Country Fire Authority
• QLD Fire Department
• SA Country Fire Service
• ACT ESA
• WA Emergency
• Secure NT

If you have any further questions, our emergencies page can give you tips about what to do in the case of bushfires and floods.

Preparing for a natural disaster or wild weather

If there is a severe weather event predicted in your area, here are a few useful tips and resources to help ensure your home is prepared. In any weather event, your local distributor is your best contact for outage info. You can find your distributor’s contact details on the first page of your bill, or by popping your postcode into our look up tool. Jot these down and keep them handy.

If you have life support at your property, ensure you are across your backup plan and have planned for access to your nearest hospital.⁠

For storms or cyclones

• Secure the exterior of your home by bringing all outside patio furniture, potted plants, bikes and toys indoors.⁠
• Source sandbags to keep water away from your property. Check whether your local council is offering these for free.
• If you have a generator, test it ahead of time and ensure you have adequate fuel on hand.⁠
• Charge power banks and any other appliances you may need (such as iPads, eBook readers, laptops, etc for entertainment) ahead of the weather event.
• Other important items to ensure you have on hand include bottled drinking water, food to last you between 5-7 days, torches, batteries, a battery powered radio to keep up to date with weather warnings, first aid kit and medication.⁠

For bushfires

A home that’s well prepared for bushfire season is more likely to survive a bushfire or ember attack according to the NSW Rural Fire Service.

Here are their maintenance tips to ensure your home is bushfire ready:

• Clean your gutters of leaves and twigs, and install metal gutter guards.
• Attach a fire sprinkler system to your gutters.
• Repair damaged or missing tiles on the roof, enclose any gaps under the house and repair any in external walls.
• Fit seals around doors and windows to eliminate gaps inside the home.
• Keep lawns short and gardens well maintained.
• Cut back trees and shrubs overhanging buildings.
• Clean up fallen leaves, twigs and debris around the property.
• Have hoses long enough to reach around your house.
• If you have a pool, tank or dam, put a Static Water Supply (SWS) sign on your property entrance, so firefighters know where they can get water.
• Ensure you have an emergency survival kit on hand. Including things like: portable battery-operated radio, waterproof torch, spare batteries, first aid kit (with manual), candles with waterproof matches, woollen blankets, bottled drinking water (at least 3L for each person per day), medication and appliance chargers.

Tips for keeping the kids entertained

With TVs, computers and gaming consoles off the table (unless they’re battery operated of course), we’ve pulled together some easy ways to keep the kids entertained whilst waiting for power to be restored.

• Have a storytelling and shadow puppet show. Use a flashlight to take turns creating different animals and characters on the walls and creating stories to go with them.
• Pull out the board or card games and take the opportunity to bring the whole family together for some quality time.
• Who says forts are just for kids? Use blankets, pillows and sheets to create a cosy hideout inside.
• Pull out your craft supplies markers, paints and scrapbooks or download our colouring in sheet and get crafty together.

Have any more questions?

If you want to learn more about power outages, how this might affect your home or how to be better prepared, we recommend visiting your local distributors website.  

The post What to do in a power outage appeared first on The Origin Blog.

What is an electrified home?

In its simplest form, an electrified home is one that has no reliance on natural gas – just electricity.  With gas prices rising, making the switch to all-electric appliances could help you save on electricity bills, make the most of solar (whether you already have rooftop solar panels or are thinking about it), and can reduce your home’s carbon footprint if you’re able to take advantage of electricity sourced from renewables. So, if your home’s stove, hot water system or heating runs on natural gas, it may be worth considering electric when your appliances reach the end of their life.

When is an ideal time to consider electrification?

Building or renovating is a prime time to consider all-electric systems and appliances. While energy-efficient electrical appliances may cost more upfront, over their lifetime they’ll have lower running costs than their natural gas or less energy-efficient counterparts. And if your new home has rooftop solar, the savings could be even greater, as the real benefit of solar comes from using the energy you’re generating first, rather than feeding it back into the grid.

Do I need solar to electrify my home?

Whilst rooftop solar is a great way to help increase the green credentials of your home, and help bring your energy bills down, it’s not a requirement when making the switch to electrification. Opting to use electricity as much as possible allows you to take advantage of energy-efficient appliances – helping to reduce your household emissions and running costs.  

How much will it cost to electrify my home?

Costs will vary depending on which natural gas appliances you currently have, as well as your style and personal goals. For example, let’s take a look in the kitchen. Many brands now offer induction cook-tops in a range of sizes, designs and price-points. The technology is fast, simple to control, safe – and easier to clean than gas cook-tops (a huge plus).

It’s important to remember that electrifying your home is an investment that will continue to provide benefits over the long term.

What if I rent?

If you’re a renter and your property has gas appliances, unfortunately the only option is to find electric alternatives. It may be worth considering a portable plug-in induction cook top for your kitchen and making the switch to an energy-efficient electric heater.

If you have a good relationship with your property manager and landlord, it may be worth floating the idea of electrifying the property. Energy efficiency upgrades may be subsidised (as well as tax deductible) and upgrades to the property can also help increase property value long term.

What are the perks of electrification if I have an EV?

If you own an EV, or are in the market for one, electrifying your home should be on your radar.  Whilst you may no longer have to pay for fuel, charging your EV still comes at a cost. If your home has rooftop solar charging your car during the day, whilst you’re generating power, is a great way to offset the electricity costs. If you prefer to charge at night, adding a battery to your setup is a great option, as it allows you to utilise the power you’ve generated as opposed to it being fed back into the grid. 

Solar technology has come a long way since the early days, with some states even offering rebates as an incentive.

How much could I save by going all-electric?

Sustainability Victoria estimates that, for a home with solar panels, making the switch to electricity could save you around $1,250 on your energy bills per year. This is in addition to approximately $950 of savings per year from an existing 6.6kW solar system. You can take your savings even further, by adding a medium-sized battery system, you could save an additional $520 per year.  
 
If you don’t have solar, there are still savings to be had by upgrading to energy-efficient appliances. In fact, two of the biggest energy users are heating and cooling (41% of home energy usage) and hot water (21%). Upgrading appliances as they approach the end of their life, to energy-efficient electrical options, could result in savings on your energy bill – and allow you to take full advantage of your solar if/when you do invest in it.

Where to start

If you’re not in the process of building or renovating your home, the starting point is a little different. Upgrading major appliances, like hot water systems and heating, can be costly, so for many households the best time to consider electrification is when these appliances are reaching the end of their life. It’s a good idea to plan your electrification transition over a few years, allowing you to budget for the replacements and slowly transition off the natural gas network.  

Our step-by-step guide to going all-electric

• Identify which appliances currently use natural gas in your home and which are reaching the end of their life first. 
• Set a budget for the appliances in question and plan for when they’ll likely need replacing. 
• Research the appliances you need and ensure they work for you, for example, if you’re an avid home-cook, make sure you find an induction cook top that ticks all your culinary boxes. 
• Seek out quotes for both the product and installation so there are no surprises when it comes to budget.  
• Research whether there are any rebates available in your state that can help reduce out-of-pocket costs.  
• Prior to installation, check in with your installer and discuss whether you’ll need to reach out to your energy provider to have your electricity meter updated. 
• Once you’ve moved all your appliances over to electric versions, reach out to your energy provider to disconnect your natural gas account. 
• Plan ahead – what does the next phase look like for your home beyond just replacing your appliances? Are there opportunities to further save on your energy bills and increase your green credentials through additions like EVs, rooftop solar and batteries?  

Electrification at home is one of the ways Aussies can increase their energy efficiency, bring their energy bills down, and can help reduce carbon emissions when powered by renewables. 

There are also some simple, passive solutions to help make your energy at home work more efficiently like installing blinds, draught proofing, and planting trees to provide shade. Seasonal window shutters can also help to reduce or maximise sun exposure. And if you’re building or renovating, there’s bigger projects you can take on to improve energy efficiency — like upgrading insulation, installing double glazed windows, fitting insulated doors, creating zoned living spaces that can be sealed off to keep warmth or cool air in, and installing oversized eaves. 

As Australia transitions to more renewable energy, and big change is happening across our energy network — there are plenty of ways to get involved now and make an impact at home today. 

Thinking about solar?

We can help you on your way to energy independence with tools, information, access to solar quotes from our preferred partners, plus more. In less than 10 minutes, you can arrange up to 3 free solar and battery quotes from our preferred partners for your property. You can also check out recommended solar system sizes, potential bill savings, and more. It’s free and without obligation⁺

⁺ Origin has a commercial agreement with our partner installers and receives a commission from them for each referral.

The post A guide to electrifying your home appeared first on The Origin Blog.

What are smart meters?

Smart meters are advanced digital meters that measure and record your electricity usage. 

Unlike traditional meters, which require manual reading, smart meters automatically and wirelessly send your usage data to a metering provider. The metering provider makes the data available to us, your retailer.  

Key features of smart meters:

• Energy awareness: Smart meters provide near real-time data on energy usage, meaning you can track your energy usage in hourly intervals with My Account.  
• Automatic data transmission: Your smart meter will transmit data wirelessly at regular intervals, so there’s no need for manual meter readings. This can help where access might be a problem. 
• Two-way communication: The communication is two-way, which means as well as being read, other actions can be taken remotely, such as connecting or disconnecting the meter when moving premises. 

Helpful tip: We indicate on page two of your bill whether your meter read is ‘estimated’ or ‘actual’. See How to read your business energy bills.

Smart meters could help save you money

Going smart lets you monitor your electricity in loads of detail and understand when you’re using the most energy.  

Patterns, spikes and anomalies in your consumption will be clear to see.  Having these insights can really set your business on a path to make changes and save. 

Other benefits of smart meters for small business

• More accurate billing – because smart meters provide precise and real-time data, there are fewer discrepancies caused by estimated readings. 
• Operational efficiencies – as smart meters offer detailed insights into energy usage, you can identify inefficiencies and areas where your energy is being wasted. Monitoring your energy use can also help you to maintain and manage equipment more effectively, predicting maintenance needs and preventing costly breakdowns. 
• Improved budgeting and forecasting – with more detailed energy consumption information, you can better predict your energy costs and budget accordingly. Also, having access to detailed historical data can help you to forecast future energy needs and plan for potential increases in usage or costs. 
• Improved reporting – detailed energy usage reports can help you comply with any regulatory requirements or energy efficiency standards. 

Timing of the smart meter rollout

As part of a state government initiative, smart meters were rolled out to almost all homes and businesses in Victoria several years ago. 

In April 2024, the Australian Energy Market Commission (AEMC) announced its intent to achieve Australia-wide uptake of smart meters by 2030. Their formal start date at this stage is 1 July 2025. 

Here at Origin, our work has already begun. We’ve commenced our own, retailer-led rollout to get your meter upgraded sooner.  

How the rollout happens

We’re contacting customers in all the states we’re an electricity retailer – so in ACT, NSW, QLD and SA. (We retail in VIC, but their rollout is complete.)  

When we first get in touch, it’s to let you know your property has become eligible.  

Then, two weeks to two months after that, we’ll be in touch again to let you know the date we’ve nominated for your meter replacement to occur. 

What if the upgrade date doesn’t suit?

Our small business customers have an option to advise us if the date is unworkable for some reason. We pass that on to the meter providers, who will then attempt to reschedule the work with you. 

How long will the installation take?

In cases where the meter is being swapped out, there’ll be a power outage from 30 minutes up to two hours. If major works are being completed in conjunction with the meter exchange, it could take longer.  

In almost all circumstances, the power supply will resume the same day. 

Are there costs involved?

If we can swap out your meter without the requirement for extra works onsite, then there is no cost to you.  

If any major work is required to install the meter  – for example, large scale removal of asbestos or meter relocating – we’ll stop work and let you know what needs to be done in order for us to reattempt the work. In these situations, there may be additional charges to the building owner should they arrange this work with an electrician. 

The Australia-wide rollout of smart meters represents a significant and forward-thinking step for businesses across the nation.  

The implementation of smart meters is an essential progression towards a smarter energy future. It will help Australian businesses understand and manage energy costs and prepare for the technological advancements that come next. 

We’re committed to supporting businesses in this transformative journey and ensuring you’re equipped with the tools needed to thrive in an increasingly energy-conscious world. 

The post The smart meter rollout and the benefits for your business  appeared first on The Origin Blog.

With an all-inclusive plan, Origin’s EV subscription lets you experience the thrill of driving an electric car without the long-term commitment of ownership. Whether you’re looking to test the waters before making the switch, an EV subscription gives you peace of mind and financial flexibility. 

Plus, with the rising cost of fuel, it’s a great time to explore the world of driving electric. So why not see for yourself if an EV fits into your life? 

Here are three compelling reasons why an EV subscription could be your perfect match. 

1. You can try before you buy

We’ve all been there, contemplating whether to purchase an item we’ve had our eye on for years. You’re unsure whether it’s a smart financial decision or if it aligns with your lifestyle. If this sounds like you when it comes to an EV, you’re in luck. The beauty of an EV subscription is that you can try an EV before committing to a purchase^#. With its flexibility, convenience, and potential tax savings,*** an EV subscription allows you to trial an EV without the long-term financial commitment.  

As you know EVs are a big upfront purchase. Take the BYD Seal as an example, which starts from $49,888. However, with an Origin subscription, you can get it from just $217 per week (salary packaged). 

2. You can try different EVs without a lock-in contract

If you’re not entirely sure which car is right for you, you can try different EVs with no lock-in contracts! With Origin EV subscriptions you get the freedom to return or subscribe to a different car with just 30 days’ notice**. 

With loads of subscriptions to choose from (depending on your budget of course), including BYD, Kia, Polestar Tesla and Toyota, you’re spoilt for choice. All of these vehicles also come in at different price points, catering to a range of budgets.

To give you an insight into the prices, you can get a Tesla Model Y from $298 per week, a BYD Atto 3 from $251 per week or a Kia EV5 Air from $309 per week. 

3. There may be tax savings

Origin offers a salary package EV subscription that allows you to experience the perks of an electric vehicle and potentially save on taxes. The subscription has all-inclusive pricing, with insurance, registration, tyres, and maintenance included in one simple payment. You can opt for an annual subscription, where you get access to a cost reduction of 15% for up to five years, or you also have the option to purchase the car after three years. 

My experience with an EV

This summer, I tried the BYD Seal. Currently, I have a Tesla Model Y, so I wanted to see how the BYD Seal compares, and it honestly surprised me. 

Here’s what stood out to me: the navigation is a game-changer, especially on busy highways. It’s got Apple CarPlay, and you can rotate the screen—it’s like having a giant iPad in your car. Plus, there’s a panoramic parking view. 

The driving experience is smooth and quiet, and with a 460 km range on a single charge, it’s perfect for summer road trips. 

What really made this experience worth it was the flexibility and convenience of the subscription. I could also try something new without having buyer’s remorse. 

Why an EV subscription might be right for you

If you’ve been eyeing an EV for a while now and are still unsure whether to take the plunge, then an EV subscription might just be for you. With an Origin EV subscription, you can drive an EV without having to pay the full up front costs and commit to a purchase.  

In addition to the low costs and commitment, the EV subscription is great for people who want an all-inclusive and hassle-free option. With a flexible plan, you can try out as many EVs as possible — allowing you to switch or cancel cars without long-term commitments.

Final thoughts

I had a great experience driving the BYD Seal and would recommend the EV to anyone who is thinking of trying out an EV. The flexibility, low costs, all-inclusive pricing, and potential tax savings of Origin’s EV subscriptions are totally worth it! 

Curious about trying out an EV Subscription?

The post 3 reasons why an EV subscription could be perfect for you appeared first on The Origin Blog.

With the increasing speed of tech change and innovation, sometimes it can be hard to keep up with latest facts and information. For example, when it comes to EVs, several past facts have now become falsehoods as technology has advanced. And some were never even facts to begin with.  

We asked out EV experts for some of the most common, and weirdest, EV myths they’ve heard and got to work busting them! 

They’re more expensive than traditional cars

As technology evolves, it typically becomes more affordable and efficient, and EVs are no exception. Initially, EVs cost up to twice as much as comparable internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. However, with an increasing number of manufacturers entering the market and technology improvements, the price of EVs is decreasing and becoming more affordable. Today, there are many EVs available at a variety of price points, including several under $40,000.  

When considering the total cost of ownership, EVs can be more economical to operate than petrol or diesel cars. The Electric Vehicle Council EV cost of ownership page can help you understand the costs associated with EVs in more detail.

There isn’t enough charging infrastructure

As more people start adopting EVs, it’s true there will be a need for more public charging infrastructure in high-density inner-city areas (where many residents don’t have access to off-street parking). However, if you’re away from home and travelling long distances, the public charging network in Australia is already well built out and improving by the day. From Adelaide all the way up to North Queensland, there’s good charging infrastructure and via a smartphone app or your car’s digital screen, you can see which chargers are available and where they’re located. 

When it comes to inner-city areas, many apartment complexes are already installing, or looking to install, EV chargers for their residents. As of October 2023, all new developments must make provisions for EV charging. 

You need a special charging set up

Yes and No. It really depends on your personal situation. For efficient home charging, we recommend installing a Level 2 dedicated wall charger, which offers faster charging speeds. 

For those who depend on public charging, you can use resources like PlugShare. Find out more about the basics of EV Charging. 

Charging is too expensive

Charging your EV comes with different price tags depending on how you go about it. Most EV owners prefer to charge at home or work – roughly 80% choose to charge their vehicles at home overnight – allowing them to set charging schedules to take advantage of cheaper electricity. This includes solar power during the day and off-peak rates at night. This savvy charging strategy can slash your costs by up to 90%, compared to filling up an ICE vehicle. 

When on the road, public fast chargers are a great option but generally cost more than private charging. Savvy EV drivers can also use free charging services like Jolt, that offers 7kWh of free charging each day.   

If you’re a Tesla owner, with Origin EV Power Up you can access 8c/kWh EV charging – that could mean less than $5 for a full charge*.

The cost of maintenance is expensive

Once you’ve purchased an EV, running costs can be up to 90% lower than a petrol car. 

Ongoing costs include maintenance and fuel. As an example, a tank per week in a 60-litre petrol car could cost over $350 per month, when the equivalent amount of driving in an EV will cost around $70 per month (if you’re paying top dollar at external chargers). More likely, when charging at home, you’ll experience cheaper charging costs. 

Then there are servicing charges, which are significant in a petrol car. But as there are so few moving parts in an EV, services are quicker and less expensive. Air filters, tyre and brake wear, etc, still need to be checked, but most of the messy and expensive work – oils, spark plugs, bearings, gaskets and so much more – is no longer required.

The driving range of EVs is unacceptable in Australia

As most car journeys are short – according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the average Australian passenger car travels around 33 kilometres per day – charging time and the cost to top up each day at home is negligible. And, if your home (or workplace) has solar and you charge during the day, charging can potentially be free. 

EVs available in Australia can travel 300 to 650 kilometres per charge – and not many people drive that far in a day. 

For long trips, perhaps an annual holiday, there’s a public charging network where cars can fully charge from 0% in 20 to 60 minutes. More likely, you’d be filling up from around 30% and require less charging time. With some careful planning on route, travelling long distances is entirely possible. 

They’re weird to drive

There are a couple of notable difference between EVs and ICE cars that may seem strange at first.  

EVs are much quieter than ICE vehicles because they don’t have an engine or exhaust system. EVs deliver instant torque, meaning they can accelerate very quickly right from a stop. Typically, EVs have simpler transmission systems, often using a single fixed gear ratio – and there’s no gear shifting, either manual or automatic, which simplifies driving.  

The design and user interface in EVs can also be quite different. Many EVs utilise digital interfaces extensively and may have different placements for buttons and controls, focusing more on technology and connectivity features. 

These differences can make EVs feel ‘weird’ or unfamiliar at first, especially for those who have been driving ICE vehicles for a long time. However, the growing number of EV sales in Australia paints a promising picture of what people enjoy driving – in 2023 alone, EV sales increased by a whopping 161 per cent! 

You can’t hear an EV approaching

 When an electric vehicle (EV) travels at speeds above 30km/h, it produces noise levels like those of an ICE car. This is due to road noise, rather than engine sound. Below this speed, however, EVs can are quiet and harder to hear. As a result, manufacturers have incorporated artificial sounds into EVs to alert pedestrians of their presence. Some manufacturers are getting creative and using composers to develop a sound for their EVs.   

You can be electrocuted when driving in the rain

Electric cars are just as safe to drive in the rain as ICE cars, thanks to rigorous safety standards. To safeguard drivers from electrocution and other electrical risks, the battery, charging system, and other components undergo extensive testing and certification. This ensures you can safely charge your car and navigate through puddles or rain without the risk of electrocution. However, just like ICE cars it is recommended not to drive through flood water.  

Batteries end up in landfill

 EV batteries are a valuable resource that after use in an EV can be repurposed for second life application for grid storage — think home batteries for solar or being recycled to recover raw materials for new batteries.  
 
In Australia, the Association for the Battery Recycling Industry (ABRI) plays a crucial role in promoting a circular economy for batteries and ensuring EV batteries avoid landfill. To better understand the lifecycle of EV batteries, check out the Electric Vehicle Council infographic and information page. 

EVs can’t tow

Electric motors, like their ICE counterparts, can handle heavy loads – producing their torque almost instantly from when the motor starts spinning. Unlike internal combustion engines which need to build up speed before producing max torque. The challenge with electric motors, is they need a lot of electricity (transported in a battery pack), but it is possible – just look at trains and trams.  

If your lifestyle means you need towing power, it’s important to factor this in when researching which EV is right for you. 

At present, the EV with the largest tow capacity is the BMW iX large SUV, which is rated to tow up to 2.5 tonnes. While EVs at present have significantly lower towing capacities to traditional petrol cars, the demand for towing capabilities is growing. 

EVs damage the road

It stands to reason that the heavier the car, the more friction between tyres and road, resulting in roads deteriorating quicker. The reality is that heavy vehicles and lighter vehicles can be both ICE and EVs.  
 
EVs are generally 300kg to 400kg heavier than their ICE equivalents due to their batteries. If you think about Australia’s new car buying trends, you’ll find Australia’s top selling vehicles Ford Ranger and the Toyota Hilux are both dual cabs and their kerb weight starts from 1950kg to 2,296kg. Compare that to the Telsa model Y kerb weight is around 1911 to 1981kg.  
 
This myth began when the University of Edinburgh calculated that EVs have a 20-40% higher road wear rate than ICE. However, the assumption was incorrect. Instead, it was determined road damage is caused by large vehicles like buses and trucks. 

Anybody who’s driven an EV will tell you that the instant-on power makes the driving experience about as much fun as it can be. Find out how we can get you, or your business, in an EV sooner. 

*Based on a continuous electricity charge rate of 8c/kWh powering a Tesla Model Y with a useable 57.5 kWh battery. The estimated cost is $4.60 to charge a Tesla Model Y (RWD) from zero charge to full capacity with Origin EV Power Up.

The post Common EV myths appeared first on The Origin Blog.

1. Access your Origin Rewards perks online

Our customers get access to a range of great rewards. From discounted movie tickets (including up to 45% off Gold Class and Luxe tickets) as well as discounts from a range of Australia’s favourite retailers – like The Iconic, JB HiFi, Endota and The Good Guys. You can access, and keep up to date with, all your perks via the ‘Rewards’ tab on the Origin app and My Account.  

2. Add your concession card

If you hold an eligible concession card, adding your details is as simple as following the steps below. 

3. Adjust your estimated bill

Estimated bills happen for a range of different reasons. From access issues like locked gates and pets, right through to natural disasters. If you’ve received an estimated read, the good news is you can submit a self-meter read in just a few steps. 

4. Check your energy plan

Want to check which energy plan you’re on? No need to go digging through your post or email inbox, it’s easily accessible via the Origin app and My Account.

5. Move house

Moving house is stressful enough without having to wait on hold to organise your energy connection. Skip the queue and organise your move in minutes online.

6. Pay your energy bill

Need to make a payment? Too easy, simply follow the steps below. 

7. Renew your energy plan

Energy prices change regularly, so getting into the habit of reviewing your plans regularly can help keep your household bills down. We know reviewing your utilities can be time consuming, so we’ve pulled together a handy checklist to help guide you through finding the right plan for you, and you can easily update your plan online. 

8. Submit a meter read to check your costs

Wondering how you’re tracking with your energy usage and costs? Here’s how you can submit a self-meter read and check. 

9. Update your details

Updating your contact details, postal address and email is easy via My Account and the Origin app, just follow our step-by-step instructions below. 

10. Need more support?

Our Help & Support section has hundreds of articles to help answer your energy account and billing questions. We’ve also got loads of great energy-saving tips and tricks on our blog. Still need a helping hand? Send our friendly team an email via hello@origin.com.au.  

The post 10 useful ways to manage your energy account online appeared first on The Origin Blog.

The state of play

Australia is experiencing a rise in apartment living and increasing EV adoption. According to the 2021 Census, over 2.5 million Australians – or more than 10% – now reside in apartments. Simultaneously, the popularity of EVs is growing, with predictions that by 2030, half of all new cars will be electric. 

Having the right infrastructure is essential to facilitating EV charging in residential and commercial buildings. New (greenfield) and existing (brownfield) buildings require similar backbone infrastructure – especially when multiple chargers are to be installed and used. Whether they already have this infrastructure in place is the big question.

What infrastructure is needed for EV-ready buildings?

Each building is unique – with varying power capacities/supply and demand (peak and off-peak), parking layout, existing electrical infrastructure, age of building, solar installations, storage and other specific requirements.   

Buildings requiring multiple EV chargers need an energy distribution system – or ‘backbone’ – as well as a dynamic load management system (LMS) to safely manage the building’s power.  

The LMS prioritises the power required by the building and its residents while distributing surplus energy for EV charging, balancing the building’s energy needs and the demands of multiple EV chargers.

What’s the difference between new and existing builds?

To future-proof new buildings, the National Construction Code (NCC) 2022 has mandated all class 2 residential buildings to provide EV-ready infrastructure to 100% car park spots, facilitating the easy installation of EV chargers as needed. However, existing buildings may or may not have this infrastructure in place. 

Approximately 1 in 4 Victorians live in strata-managed residential buildings that haven’t been set up for EV charging, leaving those with an EV – or considering making the switch – without the option to charge at home. 

Deploying backbone infrastructure and LMS in existing apartment buildings has added layers of complexity and cost, compared to new builds. 

We’re working with ARENA to address this issue for owners’ corporations and residents in apartment buildings, helping Australians overcome barriers to EV adoption. 

We’re developing a solution for existing buildings that includes EV charging technology along with backbone infrastructure. ARENA has provided $4.2 million through its Driving the Nation program to help fund 16 projects across the country.

How different is this to installing a single-dwelling charger?

The primary difference between installing a home charger in a single dwelling and setting up multiple chargers in high-density residential or commercial buildings lies in the scale of infrastructure required.   

A single home needs minimal setup, while buildings with multiple tenants require a more robust EV backbone to handle higher electrical loads. This ensures efficient, simultaneous charging for multiple vehicles while maintaining the overall power balance for the building.  

What types of EV chargers are available?

There are three main types of EV chargers: standard wall socket chargers, AC dedicated wall or pole-mounted chargers, and fast or rapid DC chargers for public use.

What software is required?

Our dedicated software platform, Origin 360 EV Charge, provides building managers with a customised dashboard with a view of all chargers, their locations and operating status.   

The software simplifies and secures access to EV chargers using RFID cards and a mobile phone app, streamlining billing and reimbursement for building managers and residents.

Benefits for residents

• Convenient EV charging: Residents can schedule their charging for off-peak times and make the most of lower electricity rates if on a time of use energy tariff. The cost of charging can, depending on the technology, be billed directly back to their electricity account.
• Public charger access: Residents may also have access to public EV chargers while on the road through consolidated charging services, which could also include the convenience of a single billing account.

Benefits for owner’s corporations

• Future proof your building: Amenities that help make life easier for residents may drive increased rental demand and return. 
• EV charger monetisation: Offer shared EV charging facilities and pass on the charging costs to the user. Smart charging software monitors charging and can collect payments from users, ensuring charging costs are reimbursed to building management.

Charging as a service (CAAS) subscription

To reduce upfront costs, Origin 360 EV offers Charging as a Service (CaaS), a low-risk way to get your building EV ready. How does this work? We design, fund, build, and maintain your EV charging infrastructure for a fixed monthly fee.  

Want to learn more?

The post Helping apartment buildings get EV ready appeared first on The Origin Blog.