POWER COSTS OF WORKING FROM HOME REVEALED

A new report from Energy Networks Australia has detailed the additional electricity costs that come with working from home.

 
Those anticipating a monster bill after setting up a home office can breathe a sigh of relief; equipment makes up only a small fraction of daily power costs. 

“The costs of running laptops and other equipment are about 18 cents a day,” says Energy Networks Australia CEO Andrew Dillon.

Housebound kids glued to the TV for an eight hour block costs just 60 cents.

“If the kids are watching TV or using gaming consoles, this by itself is unlikely to lead to a major increase in your power bill, but customers should ensure the devices are turned off when not in use.”

The cost of heating and cooling have topped the list, adding an extra $2 for four hours of runtime.

 
“Heating and cooling systems will be well over half your daily energy use.”

 
To help keep costs down, Dillon says even one degree of temperature can make a big difference.

“Lowering the temperature on your heater by one degree can save up to 10 per cent on your power bill,” he says.

“Setting your air conditioner to 24 degrees for cooling and your heater to 18 or 19 degrees can significantly lower your electricity use.”

A COVID-19 relief package for customers experiencing financial hardship was recently announced by energy networks.