How Termina compares these options for you
When you’re comparing energy plans, the devil isn’t in the detail — it’s in the fine print you didn’t think to check. That’s where Termina flips the script. Rather than leaving households and small businesses to fumble through PDFs, sales pitches, and “exclusive offers,” Termina approaches energy decisions with structured clarity. It’s a bit like asking a seasoned local tradie to tell you straight — no fluff, no upsell. Just real talk, real numbers.
Let’s unpack how Termina stacks up against common options people often turn to: comparison sites, direct retailers, and energy brokers.
What’s wrong with regular energy comparison websites?
Quick answer: They're convenient but often prioritise commissions over customer value.
Comparison sites like iSelect, Canstar Blue, or Finder feel handy, don’t they? Pop in your postcode, skim through options, click, done. But most Aussies don’t realise these sites are businesses too — and their revenue model is built on commissions from energy retailers. That means:
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They don’t always show all available plans.
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“Top picks” might be the highest-paying partners.
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Some providers are entirely missing.
It’s a bit like walking into a pub and asking what beers they have — and being told only the ones from the reps who dropped off free merch last week. You’ll still get a drink, sure, but is it really the best one for your taste and budget?
Are energy brokers better than comparison sites?
They can be — but only if you trust the broker’s independence.
Energy brokers work more like intermediaries. They often liaise directly with retailers to negotiate bulk deals for businesses, strata buildings, or residential complexes. When done right, brokers can:
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Score lower rates via volume buying
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Help with usage analysis and tariff optimisation
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Navigate demand charges or complex business needs
But here’s the rub — the same commission model often applies. Some brokers are just agents funnelling customers to a preferred panel of suppliers. Others genuinely work in your interest, but unless they disclose how they’re paid, you’re back in murky waters.
One Melbourne café owner I spoke to said his broker locked him into a two-year deal that sounded amazing on day one — until energy prices dropped six months later, and he couldn’t switch without penalty.
How does Termina differ from traditional brokers or comparison sites?
Termina doesn’t sell plans. It sells clarity.
The key difference? Termina isn’t tied to commissions. Instead of making money when you sign a contract, they charge a small fee for independent advice. Think of it like paying a mechanic to inspect a used car before you buy — sure, it costs a little upfront, but it might save you thousands long-term.
Here’s how Termina plays the long game:
| Feature | Comparison Sites | Energy Brokers | Termina |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shows all available plans? | (limited by partners) | (limited panel) | (broad market scan) |
| Gets paid by retailers? | (commission-based) | (usually) | (flat-fee advisory) |
| Offers unbiased analysis? | (conflicted) | (depends on broker) | (no sales incentives) |
| Suitable for businesses? | (limited) | (often tailored) | (suitable for all sizes) |
| Helps post-signup? | (hands-off) | (sometimes) | (ongoing usage review) |
Can’t I just go straight to the retailers myself?
You absolutely can — and if you’ve got hours to spare, spreadsheets on hand, and nerves of steel, you might even enjoy it. But energy retailers thrive on confusion. They bury fixed charges, throw in sign-up credits, and change rates every few months.
Trying to manually compare Origin, AGL, Red, Alinta, and all the smaller players? That’s not just a weekend job — that’s a full-time hobby.
And let’s not forget the retailers’ call centre incentives. Their job isn’t to find you the best deal — it’s to keep you from leaving.
Who should actually use Termina?
If you’ve ever opened a power bill and muttered “bloody hell,” Termina might be for you.
It’s especially helpful for:
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Small business owners who can’t afford to waste hundreds on inefficient plans
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Families juggling rising household costs
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Time-poor professionals who want answers, not homework
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People burned by bad switching advice from sales-driven sources
I once spoke with a builder in regional NSW who found out he’d been on a legacy tariff for years. One Termina review later, and he was saving over $1,200 annually. The kicker? No retailer had bothered to flag it.
So, is Termina always the cheapest path?
Not necessarily. Sometimes, a broker might land a special rate. Occasionally, a comparison site might feature a gem. But what Termina offers is consistency and certainty. You’re not guessing. You’re informed.
And while others are spruiking “exclusive deals,” Termina quietly gets you a better plan — without any bells, whistles, or fine print.
If you want a quick example of how they compare suppliers with total transparency, this article breaks it down in plain English, using real supplier rates.
FAQ
Can Termina help with solar plans or feed-in tariffs?
Yes, they analyse solar benefits, feed-in rates, and optimal usage times — especially for homes with batteries.
Is Termina only for big power users?
No. Even renters or solo professionals can benefit, especially if you’ve never switched providers before.
Do they lock you into any contract?
Nope. You pay once for advice. What you do with it is up to you.
In a market full of loud claims and quiet catches, there’s value in calm, fact-based advice. Energy isn’t glamorous, but it affects everything — from your morning coffee to your monthly margins. Termina doesn’t promise miracles. Just honest answers, backed by data.
And sometimes, that’s exactly the kind of energy broker you need.
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