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CanadaON
Grade 12

Unpacking an electricity bill (Investigation)

Lesson

How much electricity do we use?

Electricity powers most of the appliances and devices we use. In fact, the device you are using to view this page is charged using electricity. However, every household needs to pay for the electricity it uses so it’s important we understand just how much electricity we’re using and what it costs.

Examine this sample electricity bill and answer the questions below:

Sample electricity bill (Source: http://www.originenergy.com.au/3549/Electricity-bill)

  • What is the discounted amount due?
  • What is the due date?
  • What is the amount due if the bill is not paid by the due date?
  • How much GST is included in this amount?
  • What dates does this bill apply to?
  • When was this bill issued?
  • How much more expensive is this bill than the previous one?
  • Compare the cost of this bill with expected average prices for monthly electricity bills. Is the displayed price considered cheap or expensive?
  • Research and discuss ways to reduce household electricity usage and highlight the impacts on electricity bill payments. 

Outcomes

12C.B.2.3

Solve problems, using technology (e.g., calculator, spreadsheet), that involve the fixed costs (e.g., mortgage, insurance, property tax) and variable costs (e.g., maintenance, utilities) of owning or renting accommodation

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