☀︎SunTariff

Cost to run a window / portable air conditioner in Australian Capital Territory (2026–27)

ACT reference tariff · 37.0c/kWh

$0.44 per hour at 1,200 W

Typical use (6 h/day, 90 days a year at 1,200 W) ≈ $239/year on the Evoenergy rate.

Source: ICRC retail electricity price recalibration 2026–27 (ActewAGL standing offer), effective 1 July 2026

Portable aircon cost in ACT at 6 h/day, 90 days/year (37.0c/kWh)
Model bandPer hourPer dayPer monthPer year
Efficient (700 W)$0.26$1.55$47.18$140
Typical (1,200 W)$0.44$2.66$80.88$239
High (2,000 W)$0.74$4.43$134.81$399

Appliance running-cost calculator

ACT

Portable aircon: 700–2,000 W typical range.

4–8 h/day, usually one room in the evening; portables often run flat-out.

$0.44 per hour · $239/year at your settings
Per day (6 h)
$2.66
Per month
$80.88
Per year (90 days)
$239.46

Tariff: 37.0c/kWh — ICRC retail electricity price recalibration 2026–27 (ActewAGL standing offer) for the Evoenergy network, effective 1 July 2026. Wattage basis: Aircon Advice — portable AC running costs (AU). Full portable aircon costs in ACT →

The same appliance in other states

Cutting the cost

These are the least efficient way to cool a space, so use them as a spot fix, not an all-day habit. Seal the exhaust hose snugly in the window opening so hot air can't sneak back in. Cool one closed room rather than the whole house, and switch to a plain fan once it's comfortable. Empty or drain the unit as directed to keep it running properly.

Frequently asked questions

What does a portable aircon cost per hour in ACT?
$0.44 at the typical 1,200 W draw on ACT's reference rate of 37.0c/kWh (Evoenergy network). Efficient models run $0.26, high-draw models $0.74.
How is this calculated?
Watts ÷ 1,000 × the tariff = cost per hour, then × hours × days for the period figures. Every figure on this page uses ACT's 2026–27 reference rate — change the assumptions in the calculator above.
Is the tariff here what I actually pay?
It's the ICRC retail electricity price recalibration 2026–27 (ActewAGL standing offer) usage rate for the Evoenergy network — the government reference. Your market offer may be a little under it; your zone may differ. See ACT rates by zone.

Related

Sources — figures current as at 17 July 2026.

4–8 h/day, usually one room in the evening; portables often run flat-out.