Electricity 101

Electricity is one of those things we tend to not pay too much attention to, unless it’s not working of course. It’s an essential part of our day to day lives and most of us probably wouldn’t know how to survive without it. We’ve pulled together the most common terms you’ll hear when talking about all things electricity to help keep you understand the lingo.

What is a NMI?

A NMI is the 'National Meter Identifier' which identifies your property within the national electricity market. It is different to your meter number as your meter number can change if your meter is replaced. The NMI for your property will remain the same.

What is a tariff?

A tariff is the pricing structure that is determined in part by your location and type of meter that you have at your property.

What is a smart meter?

A smart meter automatically tracks your electricity consumption and sends your meter readings to the meter data provider or agent on a regular basis (typically daily for the day prior). This means that no one needs to come out to your property to read your meter and your consumption data is available more regularly so that you can monitor your energy usage. You may choose to adjust your usage behaviours to improve energy efficiency and reduce your spend.

What do ‘peak’ and ‘off-peak’ mean?

'Peak' and 'off-peak' relate to the times of the day when energy demand across the network is high or low. For example, most households use hot water and appliances before and after work which creates a high energy demand in the morning and evening. 

Different tariffs apply to peak and off-peak times and are determined by the kind of meter (or meters) you have at your property. If you have an off-peak meter then it is often cheaper to run some appliances overnight rather than mornings and evenings.

What is a ‘network provider’ or ‘distributor’?

The 'network provider' or 'distributor' is responsible for providing and maintaining the infrastructure (poles, wires, meters etc.) to your property and ensuring there is a continual supply of electricity.