Basic Electricity Course

Electricity is the flow of electric charge—typically electrons—through a conductor, producing energy we can harness for light, heat, motion or power.

Electricity as a natural phenomenon wasn’t “invented”—it existed long before humans. What changed was our ability to harness and use it.

Key milestones include:

– Ancient Greeks (around 600 BC) observed static electricity effects (amber rubbed with cloth)

– In the 18th century, experiments by Franklin, Volta, and others began to systematically explore electrical phenomena

– Thomas Edison’s 1879 development of a practical light bulb and power system is often treated as a turning point for electrical infrastructure

There is no single “cheapest” electricity provider for everyone in the UK—rates vary by region, consumption, tariff type and contract. The best approach is to compare current offers using Ofgem-accredited comparison sites like Uswitch, Compare the Market, or MoneySavingExpert. That said, recent listings show that Octopus Energy often appears among the lowest-cost providers currently, for both fixed and variable plans. Also, Tulo Energy and Outfox The Market are frequently mentioned as having very competitive tariffs.

The $100 Power Saving Bonus is a one-off payment offered by the Victorian Government to eligible concession-card households to assist with energy costs. It is provided in addition to the $150 Energy Bill Relief Fund. Eligible households must hold a relevant concession or pensioner card and have a recent electricity bill.

If you mean in the UK, the answer is similar to the question “Which electricity provider is the cheapest?”—you must compare tariffs for your area. As of 2025, Octopus Energy is often cited as the cheapest large supplier.
However, for some consumers, smaller or newer providers or regional offers may be cheaper depending on location, usage and type of plan.

To get the $100 Power Saving Bonus (a type of Victorian energy rebate), follow these steps:

1. Visit the Victorian Energy Compare website (compare.energy.vic.gov.au).

2. Register or log in, and submit your application along with a recent residential electricity bill.

3. Provide proof of your eligible concession card (e.g. Health Care Card, Pensioner Concession Card, Veterans’ Affairs cards)

4. You may also apply via phone, or via community organisations participating in outreach programs.

5. Once approved, the payment will be made as per government guidelines.

Note: Because this is an Australian (Victorian) scheme, UK residents are not eligible to apply