Save
Aussies get savvy with energy hacks as costs surge
As energy costs continue to climb across Australia, a recent study commissioned by Zip Co (ASX: ZIP) reveals that 91% of Australians are actively seeking innovative ways to reduce their energy bills. The digital financial services company, known for its flexible, customer-centric products, highlights the creative strategies Aussies are employing to combat rising expenses.
Aussies get savvy with energy hacks as costs surge
As energy costs continue to climb across Australia, a recent study commissioned by Zip Co (ASX: ZIP) reveals that 91% of Australians are actively seeking innovative ways to reduce their energy bills. The digital financial services company, known for its flexible, customer-centric products, highlights the creative strategies Aussies are employing to combat rising expenses.
The study, conducted by YouGov in September 2025 with a sample size of 1,029 Australians aged 18 and older, found that a staggering 87% of Australians are experiencing higher energy bills. More than half of these households have seen increases of between 10% and 30%. With household budgets under strain, Zip Co is stepping in to offer financial solutions that empower Australians to manage their spending more effectively.
Becky Cook, Chief Customer & Revenue Officer, ANZ at Zip Co, commented, "With energy bills climbing, we know many households are feeling the pinch. We consistently see customers using Zip to manage their bills, and in August 2025 alone, energy providers made up three of the top five merchants for bills paid with Zip in Australia. At Zip, we’re committed to helping Australians stay on top of rising costs through flexible payment options, giving customers smarter ways to manage their energy expenses now and into the future."
The research highlights several everyday habits that contribute to rising energy costs. Many Australians admit to leaving appliances on standby (44%), charging devices overnight (43%), taking long showers (30%), and boiling more water than needed (22%). Younger generations, particularly Gen Z (95%) and Millennials (92%), are more likely than Baby Boomers (85%) to engage in these energy-wasting habits.
However, faced with escalating costs, Australians are motivated to change. The report indicates that 91% are either currently employing or planning to adopt creative methods to cut back on their energy bills, thus freeing up more cash for other priorities. Traditional energy-saving measures such as switching to solar (72%), sealing off windows and doors to retain heat (50%), and taking shorter showers (31%) are popular choices.
In addition to conventional methods, Australians are embracing more unconventional energy hacks. Some have resorted to showering at the gym to save on water costs (13%), cuddling up with pets or others for warmth (16%), and even leaving bathwater in the tub to heat the room and save on using more hot water (11%).
Cook further elaborated, "It’s clear that Australians are getting more engaged with their energy consumption and, more importantly, how they can reduce their bills. At Zip, we’re here to unlock financial potential for Aussies and provide products that help them reach their goals. Whether that’s an investment in new solar panels from one of our partners like Solahart or a personal loan to make their home more eco-friendly, providing flexibility through financing is essential."
The study also uncovered additional creative energy-saving hacks being adopted across the nation. These include using an air fryer instead of the oven (35%), using mirrors or lighter décor to reflect natural light instead of switching on lights (13%), and growing plants near windows for insulation (17%).
Financial flexibility is becoming increasingly important for Australians, with two in three (66%) considering spreading their energy costs across multiple months. Gen Z (75%) and Millennials (76%) are particularly keen on this approach, compared to Gen X (64%) and Baby Boomers (52%).
New South Wales residents appear to be the most proactive in adopting energy-saving techniques, with 92% having either adopted or considering adopting methods to cut down on their energy bills.
As Australians continue to grapple with rising energy costs, the creative solutions being implemented across the country highlight a growing awareness and commitment to energy conservation. Zip Co's research not only sheds light on these innovative strategies but also underscores the importance of financial solutions that empower consumers to take control of their expenses.
RELATED ARTICLES
How to budget
The psychology behind saving: Understanding and overcoming common barriers
Saving money is a fundamental aspect of financial security, yet many people find it difficult to set aside a portion of their income regularly. Read more
How to budget
Smart saving tips for first home buyers in Australia
Purchasing your first home is a significant milestone, but the path to homeownership in Australia can seem daunting due to the high property prices and competitive market. However, with the right ...Read more
How to budget
Crafting your safety net: Building an emergency fund in Australia
In uncertain times, having an emergency fund is more than a financial buffer—it's peace of mind. For Australians looking to start their journey towards financial security, building an emergency fund ...Read more
How to budget
The psychology of saving: How to train your brain to cut expenses
Saving money is more than just a practical financial strategy; it’s a mindset that requires discipline and a reorientation of one’s approach to spending and savings. Read more
How to budget
5 budgeting apps that will transform your savings
In the digital age, managing personal finances has shifted from pen and paper to smartphones, with budgeting apps becoming invaluable tools for those looking to save money. With an array of features ...Read more
How to budget
Handy tips to send your money worries to the chopping block
Sorting out your finances can be easier said than done, especially in the aftermath of the short Easter break when distractions are unrelenting and stress levels are worked up at fever pitch. Read more
How to budget
6 ways to clean up your personal finances
Bringing your spending under control can sometimes feel daunting. Here are some ways to start. Read more
How to budget
5 ways to be smarter about your money in 2021
Start the new year on a high note by stepping away from bad financial habits. Read more
How to budget
The psychology behind saving: Understanding and overcoming common barriers
Saving money is a fundamental aspect of financial security, yet many people find it difficult to set aside a portion of their income regularly. Read more
How to budget
Smart saving tips for first home buyers in Australia
Purchasing your first home is a significant milestone, but the path to homeownership in Australia can seem daunting due to the high property prices and competitive market. However, with the right ...Read more
How to budget
Crafting your safety net: Building an emergency fund in Australia
In uncertain times, having an emergency fund is more than a financial buffer—it's peace of mind. For Australians looking to start their journey towards financial security, building an emergency fund ...Read more
How to budget
The psychology of saving: How to train your brain to cut expenses
Saving money is more than just a practical financial strategy; it’s a mindset that requires discipline and a reorientation of one’s approach to spending and savings. Read more
How to budget
5 budgeting apps that will transform your savings
In the digital age, managing personal finances has shifted from pen and paper to smartphones, with budgeting apps becoming invaluable tools for those looking to save money. With an array of features ...Read more
How to budget
Handy tips to send your money worries to the chopping block
Sorting out your finances can be easier said than done, especially in the aftermath of the short Easter break when distractions are unrelenting and stress levels are worked up at fever pitch. Read more
How to budget
6 ways to clean up your personal finances
Bringing your spending under control can sometimes feel daunting. Here are some ways to start. Read more
How to budget
5 ways to be smarter about your money in 2021
Start the new year on a high note by stepping away from bad financial habits. Read more
More articles
OUR PLATFORMS AND BRANDS
EVENTS AND SUMMITS
- ACE25 The Accounting Conference and Exhibition
- Australian Accounting Awards
- Australian AI Awards
- Australian Aviation Awards
- Australian Aviation Summit
- Australian Broking Awards
- Australian Cyber Awards
- Australian Cyber Summit
- Australian Defence Industry Awards
- Australian Law Awards
- Australian Law Forum
- Australian Space Awards
- Australian Space Summit
- Better Business Awards
- Better Business Summit
- Broker Innovation Awards
- Broker Innovation Summit
- Budget Summit
- Corporate Counsel Summit
- Defence & National Security Workforce Awards
- Lawyers Weekly 30 Under 30 Awards
- New Broker Academy
- Partner of the Year Awards
- Partner Summit
- REB Awards
- Rising Star Awards
- SME Bootcamp
- Women in Finance Awards
- Women in Finance Summit
- Women in Law Awards
- Women in Law Forum
PODCASTS
- Accountants Daily Podcast Network
- Australian Aviation Podcast Network
- Broker Daily Podcast Network
- Defence Connect Podcast Network
- HR Leader Podcast Network
- REB Podcast Network
- Space Connect Podcast
- The Adviser Podcast Network
- The ifa Show
- The Lawyers Weekly Show
- The Smart Property Investment Show
LEARNING AND EDUCATION
MOMENTUM MARKETS NETWORK
STAY CONNECTED
Make your nest egg grow. Register now for nestegg updates.