Cost to run a split-system air conditioner (cooling) in Northern Territory (2026–27)
NT reference tariff · 31.7c/kWh
Typical use (6 h/day, 90 days a year at 750 W) ≈ $128/year on the Power and Water rate.
Source: NT Electricity Pricing Order 2026–27 (Jacana Energy standard residential), effective 1 July 2026
| Model band | Per hour | Per day | Per month | Per year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Efficient (450 W) | $0.14 | $0.86 | $26.00 | $77 |
| Typical (750 W) | $0.24 | $1.43 | $43.34 | $128 |
| High (1,500 W) | $0.48 | $2.85 | $86.67 | $257 |
Appliance running-cost calculator
NTSplit-system aircon: 450–1,500 W typical range.
4–8 h/day in summer; inverter units modulate below their rated draw once the room is at temperature.
- Per day (6 h)
- $1.43
- Per month
- $43.34
- Per year (90 days)
- $128.30
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: Daikin Cora specifications (via Wholesale Aircon). Full split-system aircon costs in NT →
The same appliance in other states
Cutting the cost
Pick a moderate temperature and leave it there; chasing a colder room just runs the compressor harder for longer. Clean the filters often, and keep the outdoor unit clear of leaves and harsh afternoon sun so it can shed heat. In milder weather, try the "dry" or fan mode instead of full cooling, and close the curtains before the room has a chance to heat up.
Frequently asked questions
- What does a split-system aircon cost per hour in NT?
- $0.24 at the typical 750 W draw on NT's reference rate of 31.7c/kWh (Power and Water network). Efficient models run $0.14, high-draw models $0.48.
- 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.
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- Daikin Cora specifications (via Wholesale Aircon)
- Jacana Energy — residential pricing and tariffsverified
4–8 h/day in summer; inverter units modulate below their rated draw once the room is at temperature.