If you've been looking for a new energy provider, perhaps you've sought help from third-party utility connection services like My Connect.

But did you know MyConnect is owned by Origin Energy?

The consumer advocacy group CHOICE got mystery shoppers on the case and found time-poor Australians were steered towards Origin — even when it wasn't the cheapest option.

• Guest: Jarni Blakkarly, Investigative Reporter at CHOICE Consumers Group
• Producer: Briana Charles

In a statement to Radio National Breakfast, Duncan Permezel, General Manager, Consumer & Property — Retail, Origin says:

It is very important to Origin that we be appropriately clear about our ownership of MyConnect, which is why we reference this on most pages of the website.

All Origin energy plans offered via MyConnect, and other similar platforms, are priced at or below the VDO and DMO.

Meanwhile Hasan Ulker, Co-CEO & Founder, MyConnect says:

We are very proud to be part of Origin and believe it's important to be clear with our customers which is why we reference Origin's ownership of MyConnect on multiple pages of the website. If our team are asked about this, they should definitely be upfront about Origin's ownership.

Customers who come through our website are presented with three offers side by side, with reference to the relevant default offer for each clearly displayed, for customers to choose from and they are under no obligation to proceed.

Real estate agents are required to clearly communicate their existing relationship with MyConnect as part of the application process, including that their information will be passed on to MyConnect.