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

NT reference tariff · 31.7c/kWh

$0.38 per hour at 1,200 W

Typical use (6 h/day, 90 days a year at 1,200 W) ≈ $205/year on the Power and Water rate.

Source: NT Electricity Pricing Order 2026–27 (Jacana Energy standard residential), effective 1 July 2026

Portable aircon cost in NT at 6 h/day, 90 days/year (31.7c/kWh)
Model bandPer hourPer dayPer monthPer year
Efficient (700 W)$0.22$1.33$40.45$120
Typical (1,200 W)$0.38$2.28$69.34$205
High (2,000 W)$0.63$3.80$115.56$342

Appliance running-cost calculator

NT

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

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

$0.38 per hour · $205/year at your settings
Per day (6 h)
$2.28
Per month
$69.34
Per year (90 days)
$205.28

Tariff: 31.7c/kWh — NT Electricity Pricing Order 2026–27 (Jacana Energy standard residential) for the Power and Water network, effective 1 July 2026. Wattage basis: Aircon Advice — portable AC running costs (AU). Full portable aircon costs in NT →

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 NT?
$0.38 at the typical 1,200 W draw on NT's reference rate of 31.7c/kWh (Power and Water network). Efficient models run $0.22, high-draw models $0.63.
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 NT's 2026–27 reference rate — change the assumptions in the calculator above.
Is the tariff here what I actually pay?
It's the NT Electricity Pricing Order 2026–27 (Jacana Energy standard residential) usage rate for the Power and Water network — the government reference. Your market offer may be a little under it; your zone may differ. See NT 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.