An energy retailer is the company that sells you electricity or gas, manages your account and sends your bills. It buys or arranges energy supply, applies your plan’s rates and discounts, and passes network charges on to you. The local distributor still owns and maintains the poles, wires or gas pipes and responds to faults, while the retailer handles most billing and service enquiries. You can compare retailers and switch plans, but check rates, fees, contract terms and available concessions before changing. The Australian Energy Regulator or your state energy regulator can provide further guidance.