How do I compare gas and electricity prices in the UK?

Enter your postcode, current supplier and tariff, meter type (single rate, Economy 7/10, prepayment), and your annual usage in kWh (or monthly spend). A comparison tool will estimate annual costs and rank tariffs. Review unit rates, standing charges, contract length, exit fees and any incentives before confirming a switch.

What information do I need for the most accurate quote?

Postcode, current supplier and tariff name, annual consumption in kWh for electricity and gas (from a recent bill or smart meter), meter type (single rate/Economy 7/Economy 10/prepayment), payment method (Direct Debit, on receipt of bill, prepay), and your preference for fixed or variable tariffs.

Will my energy supply be interrupted if I switch?

No. Switching is an administrative process that uses the same pipes and wires. There is no engineer visit and you will not lose supply.

Are there exit fees and how can I avoid them?

Many fixed-term tariffs charge exit fees per fuel; variable tariffs usually do not. Under Ofgem rules, suppliers cannot charge exit fees within the last 49 days of a fixed deal. Check the tariff information label and plan your switch date to avoid charges.

What is the difference between unit rate and standing charge?

The unit rate is the price per kWh of energy you use. The standing charge is a daily fixed cost you pay regardless of usage. Your bill equals standing charge plus (unit rate multiplied by kWh used). Low users may value a lower standing charge; higher users focus more on the unit rate.

Fixed vs variable tariffs: which should I choose?

Fixed tariffs lock in prices for a set term, offering budgeting certainty but often include exit fees. Variable tariffs can change up or down (often linked to the price cap) and usually have no exit fees. Choose fixed for price certainty; variable for flexibility.

Can I switch if I am on a prepayment meter or have energy debt?

You can usually switch on a prepayment meter. If you owe up to £500 per fuel, the Debt Assignment Protocol may allow a switch to a new prepayment supplier that continues to recover the debt. Larger debts typically need to be cleared first and eligibility can vary by supplier.

Do smart meters affect switching?

You do not need a smart meter to switch. Existing smart meters should keep working. Some first-generation meters may temporarily lose smart features when you change supplier, but most are now enrolled on the national smart network and retain remote readings.

Are green energy tariffs more expensive?

Not necessarily. Many green or renewable tariffs are competitively priced. Check whether electricity is 100% renewable, whether any green gas or offsets are included, and compare total estimated costs alongside environmental credentials.

Why do prices vary by region?

Regional prices reflect differences in network (distribution) costs, wholesale costs and supplier pricing strategies. Your postcode ensures you see the correct local rates.

What is the cooling-off period when switching?

After sign-up you typically have 14 days to change your mind without penalty. If you cancel within this period, your switch will be stopped or reversed and you will only pay for energy used.

How often are tariffs and prices updated on this page?

Energy tariffs change frequently and availability can change at short notice as suppliers update offers. Always review the final tariff details and price before confirming your switch.

Will my credit score be checked?

For credit (non-prepayment) tariffs, suppliers may run a soft or hard credit check and could request a security deposit if your history is limited. Prepayment tariffs typically do not require a credit check.

I rent my home – can I switch energy supplier?

If you are responsible for paying the energy bill, you generally have the right to choose the supplier. Check your tenancy agreement; a landlord may name a preferred supplier but cannot prevent you from switching, though you may need to switch back when you leave.

I am moving home – what should I do about my energy?

Take opening and closing meter readings (or photos), tell your current supplier you are moving, and set up a tariff at your new address. You will be on a deemed contract at the new property until you choose a deal. Compare using the new postcode and expected usage, then switch.

How do I compare Economy 7 or Economy 10 tariffs?

Use recent bills to find your day and night (and, for Economy 10, off-peak) kWh usage. Compare multi-rate tariffs only, check the night rate and off-peak hours, and ensure they align with when you use electricity.

Does paying by Direct Debit reduce the price?

Paying by Monthly Direct Debit is often cheaper than paying on receipt of bill. Prepayment tariffs can be more expensive than credit tariffs. Always compare like-for-like payment methods when assessing price.

Can I compare business energy prices here?

Business energy works differently to domestic. Quotes are usually bespoke based on your meter profile and consumption, and contract terms can vary. Use a business comparison service or contact suppliers for quotes.

How much could I save by switching?

Savings depend on your usage, region, current tariff and market rates. Enter accurate kWh figures to see a reliable estimate of annual cost and any potential saving before you commit.

Will switching affect the Warm Home Discount or Priority Services Register?

Switching does not remove eligibility, but you must be with a participating supplier by the scheme's qualifying date and meet its criteria. If needed, rejoin the Priority Services Register with your new supplier.

Do you charge a fee for switching through this site?

Comparison services typically do not charge consumers; if a commission is paid by a supplier, it should not change the price you pay. Check this website's terms for any fee or commission information.

Compare Gas and Electricity Prices in the United Kingdom

Q: How long does a switch take?

Most domestic switches complete within around 5 working days after the 14-day cooling-off period, though some suppliers may complete sooner. You will receive a final bill from your old supplier after submitting closing meter readings.

Find the latest UK energy deals in minutes. Compare gas and electricity tariffs from multiple suppliers, see estimated annual costs, and switch online with no interruption to your supply.

Compare prices now How it works

Free, no obligation quotes. Switching typically takes around 5 working days after your 14-day cooling-off period. Your gas and electricity will continue to flow as normal.

Why compare gas and electricity prices with Energy Plus?

See live tariff availability for your postcode and meter type.
Compare dual fuel or single fuel plans side-by-side with clear unit rates and standing charges.
Filter by fixed, variable, green energy, smart meter, Economy 7, prepayment and more.
Transparent fees and terms: exit fees, contract length, payment method discounts.
Fast, secure online switching with status updates from quote to go-live.

How energy switching works

Tell us about your home – Enter your postcode, current supplier, tariff, and typical usage (kWh) or monthly spend.
Compare tariffs – We estimate your annual costs using the information you provide and current supplier rates.
Switch online – Choose a deal and complete the secure application in minutes. Your new supplier handles the rest.

There is no engineer visit needed for a standard switch, and your supply will not be interrupted. You will have a 14-day cooling-off period to change your mind.

Start your switch

What affects the price you pay for gas and electricity?

Energy bills are made up of a standing charge (a daily fixed cost) and a unit rate (you pay per kWh of energy used). Prices vary by region, meter type and tariff.

Standing charge

A daily charge that covers maintaining your connection to the network and supplier operating costs. Even if you use no energy, the standing charge still applies.

Unit rate (kWh)

The price per unit of energy you use. Reducing consumption or choosing a lower unit rate can lower your bills.

Tariff type

Fixed, variable, prepayment, Economy 7/10, or time-of-use smart tariffs. Each suits different usage patterns and preferences.

Region & meter

Distribution costs differ by region. Your meter type (single rate, multi-rate, smart, prepayment) also affects available prices.

The Ofgem price cap limits the maximum a standard variable tariff can charge for unit rates and standing charges in a typical period, but it is not a cap on your total bill. Your bill depends on how much energy you use.

Choose the right energy tariff for your home

Fixed vs variable tariffs

Fixed tariff – Unit rates and standing charge are fixed for a set term (e.g. 12 months). Protection from price rises during the term; may include exit fees.
Variable tariff – Rates can go up or down (often influenced by wholesale costs and the price cap). Usually no exit fee.

Dual fuel vs single fuel

Dual fuel – Get gas and electricity from the same supplier. Convenient, and sometimes offers a discount.
Single fuel – Mix and match different suppliers for gas and electricity if that gives a better overall price.

Smart meter and time-of-use tariffs

Smart tariffs can offer cheaper prices at off-peak times. If you can shift usage to evenings or weekends, you may save. You’ll typically need a compatible smart meter.

Economy 7 / Economy 10

These multi-rate tariffs offer cheaper night-time electricity and higher daytime rates. They can work well with storage heaters or night-time usage. Ensure your consumption pattern fits before switching.

Prepayment meters

Pay-as-you-go meters let you top up as needed. Fewer tariffs are available and unit rates can be higher, but comparison can still find better options within prepayment plans.

Green energy tariffs

Support renewable generation with 100% renewable electricity or carbon-offset gas plans. Prices can be competitive with standard tariffs; check the fuel mix and certification details.

Get the most accurate comparison

Have your latest bill handy for precise annual usage in kWh (electricity and gas).
Confirm your current tariff name and whether you pay by Direct Debit, on receipt of bill, or prepay.
Tell us about Economy 7/10 or smart meters so we match multi-rate deals correctly.
Add occupants and property type for better estimates if you don’t know your kWh.

Get my personalised quote

Moving home or renting?

When you move, you’ll usually be placed on a standard variable tariff with the property’s existing supplier. Submit opening meter readings and compare immediately—switching to a suitable tariff can help avoid paying more than you need to.

Business energy comparison

Run a company or micro-business? Commercial energy works differently with bespoke quotes and contract end dates. Share a recent bill and we’ll help you compare business gas and electricity prices to reduce overheads.

Compare business energy

Extra help and support

Priority Services Register – If you’re vulnerable, eligible households can receive free additional support from their energy supplier.
Warm Home Discount – Some customers may qualify for a credit on their electricity bill during winter (eligibility applies).
Energy saving – Small changes like lowering your thermostat, draft-proofing, and efficient appliances can cut usage and costs.

Compare the latest gas and electricity prices

Use our secure comparison to see today’s available tariffs for your home. Your personalised results will include estimated annual cost, unit rates, standing charges, exit fees and contract terms.

Start comparing

Estimates are based on the details you provide and supplier pricing available at the time of your comparison. Actual costs may vary with usage, regional charges and any changes to prices or regulations. We may receive a commission from some suppliers if you switch through our service; this will not affect the ranking of tariffs where we are required to show them fairly.

Gas and electricity comparison FAQs

Will my energy supply be interrupted when I switch?

No. Your gas and electricity continue as normal. The switch is handled digitally between suppliers.

How long does a switch take?

Most domestic switches complete in around 5 working days after a 14-day cooling-off period. You’ll receive updates at each step.

Do I need a smart meter to switch?

No. You can switch with a traditional or smart meter. Certain time-of-use tariffs may require a smart meter for accurate billing.

What information do I need to compare prices?

Your postcode, current supplier and tariff, and your annual usage in kWh (from a recent bill) give the most accurate quotes. If you don’t know your usage, we can estimate.

Are there exit fees for leaving my current tariff?

Some fixed tariffs include exit fees if you leave before the end date. Check your current contract. If you’re within the last 49 days of a fixed deal, most suppliers waive exit fees.

How does the Ofgem price cap affect me?

The price cap limits what suppliers can charge on standard variable tariffs for unit rates and standing charges during a cap period. It is not a cap on your total bill—your costs still depend on how much energy you use.

Can renters switch energy supplier?

Yes, if you pay the energy bill directly. Check your tenancy agreement for any clauses, and let your landlord know as a courtesy.

What is dual fuel and is it cheaper?

Dual fuel means getting gas and electricity from the same supplier. It can be convenient and sometimes cheaper, but always compare against separate suppliers for the best value.

Ready to compare gas and electricity prices?

See personalised energy deals for your home and switch online in minutes with Energy Plus.

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Updated on 19 Nov 2025