Are time-of-use energy tariffs cheaper in the UK in 2026?
They can be cheaper if you can shift enough electricity use into off-peak hours. Compare whole-of-market time-of-use (TOU) and standard tariffs in minutes and see which is likely to cost less for your household.
- Check if TOU (e.g. off-peak / peak pricing) suits your routine
- Estimate savings for EV charging, heat pumps, and high overnight usage
- Whole-of-market comparison for UK homes (not business)
- Switch support from quote to sign-up
Figures vary by region, meter type and usage. We’ll ask a few questions to match you with suitable home energy tariffs.
Compare time-of-use vs standard tariffs for your home
A time-of-use energy tariff charges different unit rates depending on the time of day. Whether it’s cheaper in 2026 depends on one thing: how much of your electricity you can move into cheaper off-peak windows without increasing your overall usage.
EnergyPlus is a whole-of-market comparison service for UK households. Tell us a few details and we’ll surface suitable tariffs (including TOU options where available) so you can compare like-for-like.
What you’ll get after submitting
- Tariff matches for your region and meter type (including TOU where suitable)
- Clear comparison of estimated costs and key terms
- Guidance on whether TOU is likely to help your household pattern
Check if a TOU tariff could be cheaper
Complete the form to compare whole-of-market home energy tariffs.
When are time-of-use tariffs cheaper in 2026?
In plain terms, a TOU tariff is cheaper when the money you save on off-peak units is greater than any extra you pay on peak units (and any differences in standing charge). That usually comes down to your lifestyle, appliances, and whether you can automate usage.
You can shift 25–40%+ of usage off-peak
Households that can move a meaningful slice of electricity to cheaper hours tend to benefit most—especially if the peak rate is notably higher than a standard tariff.
You charge an EV at home
EV charging is one of the easiest loads to schedule overnight. If you do most charging at home, TOU can materially reduce running costs.
You have a smart meter / half-hourly data
Most modern TOU tariffs work best with smart metering. Half-hourly readings can make billing and comparisons more accurate.
You can avoid expensive peak windows
If your biggest electricity activities happen in the early evening (cooking, tumble dryer, immersion, gaming), a TOU tariff may cost more unless you change habits.
You can automate usage
Timers, smart plugs, EV schedulers and heat-pump controls make it easier to consistently use off-peak energy without day-to-day effort.
Your region’s rates favour TOU
Standing charges and unit rates differ by area. In some regions, a “good” TOU deal can be less compelling once standing charge is considered.
How time-of-use energy tariffs work (UK homes)
A time-of-use tariff charges different electricity rates depending on time bands. Suppliers define these bands (for example, overnight off-peak, daytime standard, and evening peak). Some tariffs also include a daily standing charge just like standard tariffs.
You’re billed by time band
Your meter readings are allocated into peak/off-peak (or multiple) periods, each with its own unit rate (p/kWh).
Off-peak can be much cheaper
TOU tariffs often provide a strong discount overnight or at specific times—useful for EV charging or running appliances on timers.
Peak can be higher than standard
Many TOU tariffs charge more at busy times (commonly early evening). If most of your use stays in peak windows, you could pay more overall.
The cheapest option is personal to your usage
Comparing unit rates alone can mislead. The right approach is to estimate annual cost from your usage pattern, standing charges and time bands.
TOU vs standard tariff: what to compare
Rates and standing charge
- Peak unit rate (p/kWh)
- Off-peak unit rate (p/kWh)
- Any additional bands (e.g. super off-peak)
- Standing charge (p/day)
Practical fit
- Exact off-peak hours (do they match your routine?)
- Exit fees or fixed-term commitment (if any)
- Smart meter requirement
- How your supplier presents time band usage
Common UK time-of-use tariff types you may see in 2026
“Time-of-use” can describe a few different structures. The names and hours vary by supplier, but the logic is the same: different prices at different times.
| Tariff type | Best for | Watch-outs | Meter / setup |
|---|---|---|---|
| Two-rate (day/night) | Overnight users; some storage heating setups; EV charging | Day rate can be higher than a single-rate tariff | Often smart meter or multi-rate meter |
| EV-focused TOU | Drivers who can schedule home charging | Peak windows may be pricey; eligibility may depend on EV ownership | Typically smart meter required |
| Three-rate / multi-band | Households with flexible daytime usage and automation | More complex; savings depend on precise timing | Smart meter strongly preferred |
| Tracker-style with TOU elements | Confident bill-payers who monitor rates | Rates can change frequently; budgeting can be harder | Smart meter often required |
Costs, savings and common TOU mistakes
The most common reason a time-of-use energy tariff isn’t cheaper is simple: the household doesn’t actually use enough electricity in the discounted window. Below are the pitfalls to check before switching.
Mistake 1: ignoring standing charge
A low off-peak unit rate won’t help if the standing charge is significantly higher than alternatives. Always compare estimated annual total cost, not just p/kWh.
Mistake 2: peak-time habits stay the same
If you still run the tumble dryer, dishwasher and immersion heater during peak windows, TOU can increase your bill. Scheduling makes the difference.
Mistake 3: assuming TOU helps gas costs
Most TOU tariffs apply to electricity. If you’re comparing dual fuel, treat electricity and gas separately and focus TOU analysis on electricity usage patterns.
Mistake 4: not checking the hours
Off-peak hours vary. Some are fixed overnight; others include short cheap windows. Ensure the tariff’s times fit your routine—especially for EV charging.
A practical way to estimate if TOU will be cheaper
Work out your shiftable usage
Identify what you can move (EV charging, laundry, dishwasher, immersion/boost, dehumidifier). If you can schedule it reliably, count it as off-peak.
Compare your likely split
If you think you’ll be, for example, 30% off-peak and 70% peak/standard, apply those proportions to the unit rates when comparing tariffs.
Add standing charge and any terms
Include the standing charge and check whether the tariff is fixed or variable, plus any exit fees if you might switch again soon.
If you’d rather not do the maths, use the comparison form and we’ll help you identify suitable TOU and non-TOU options for your household.
Regional differences in UK electricity pricing (why your postcode matters)
In Great Britain, electricity costs can vary by region due to how charges are set across distribution areas. This can affect both standard and time-of-use tariffs—especially standing charges.
Standing charges vary
Even if two households use the same electricity, differences in standing charge can change which tariff is “best value”.
Unit rates vary too
Peak and off-peak unit rates can differ across regions. A strong TOU deal in one area may be average elsewhere.
Not all tariffs are available everywhere
Some suppliers restrict certain TOU products. Comparing whole-of-market helps confirm availability for your postcode and meter setup.
FAQs: time-of-use energy tariffs in the UK (2026)
Do I need a smart meter for a TOU tariff?
Often, yes. Many TOU tariffs are designed for smart meters and half-hourly readings. Some two-rate tariffs may work with certain multi-rate meters, but availability varies.
Are TOU tariffs only for EV drivers?
No. EVs make TOU easier to benefit from, but households with shiftable loads (laundry, dishwashing, immersion heating) may still save if they can use cheaper hours consistently.
Will a TOU tariff reduce my gas bill?
Usually not directly, because TOU pricing is typically applied to electricity. If you have a heat pump or electric heating, TOU could affect heating costs (electricity), but gas remains on its own rate.
What if I can’t change when I use electricity?
A standard single-rate tariff may be better. If most of your electricity is used during peak windows, TOU can be more expensive even if off-peak rates look attractive.
Are TOU tariffs risky?
They can be if rates are variable or if your routine changes (e.g. working from home). The key is to understand the peak window costs and whether you can stay off-peak for large loads.
How do I know if TOU is cheaper for me in 2026?
Compare estimated annual costs using your postcode and usage pattern. If you’re unsure of your peak/off-peak split, start with your biggest shiftable loads and consider a smart meter for better tracking.
Want a personalised comparison? Go to the form section to check availability and estimated costs for your home.
Trusted comparisons, clearer decisions
Switching is easier when the tariff actually matches your lifestyle. We focus on clarity: what the rates mean, whether you’re likely to benefit, and what to check before you commit.
Whole-of-market approach
We compare across the market to help you find suitable home tariffs, including TOU options where available for your setup.
UK household focus
Advice and comparisons designed for residential customers, including smart meter and multi-rate considerations.
Support through to switch
We help you understand key terms, avoid common pitfalls, and move forward with confidence.
What homeowners say
“I thought a time-of-use tariff would automatically be cheaper. The comparison showed it only worked if I moved laundry and EV charging overnight. That clarity saved me from switching to the wrong plan.”
“Postcode comparison made a difference—standing charges changed the result. The options were easy to compare and I found a tariff that fits our EV charging routine.”
Testimonials are illustrative of customer experiences and do not guarantee savings. Always review tariff terms before switching.
Ready to see if a time-of-use tariff is cheaper for your home?
Compare whole-of-market UK home energy tariffs, including TOU options where suitable. It takes a couple of minutes and starts with your postcode.
- See TOU and standard tariffs side-by-side
- Understand peak/off-peak trade-offs before switching
- Get help choosing a tariff that fits your routine
Home energy only. No scripts on this page; submit the form to request your tariff comparisons.
Back to Energy Cost Saving Advice