Best fixed rate energy tariff (UK): how to choose in 2026
A fixed tariff can protect you from price changes for a set period, but the “best” deal depends on your meter, payment method, and how long you want to fix for. Use this guide to compare like-for-like and get a whole-of-market quote.
- Understand what a fixed tariff does (and doesn’t) protect you from
- See a simple comparison table and a decision checklist
- Get a quote using your postcode and usage details
Estimates only. Prices and availability vary by region, meter type, payment method and credit checks. Fixed tariffs may include exit fees.
Fast answer: the “best” fixed tariff is the one that’s cheapest for your details and flexible enough for your plans
In the UK, a fixed rate energy tariff typically locks in your unit rate (p/kWh) and standing charge (p/day) for a set term (often 12–24 months). That can help with budgeting, but it’s only “best” if the total estimated annual cost works for your usage and you’re comfortable with the rules (such as exit fees and eligibility).
When a fixed tariff tends to suit
- You want predictable prices for a defined period
- You can stay put (or are happy with any exit fee)
- You can pay by Direct Debit (often cheapest)
When it may not suit
- You might move home soon
- You’re trying to benefit if prices fall
- You need a tariff without credit checks / strict criteria
Quick rule of thumb
Compare fixed tariffs by estimated yearly cost using your meter type and payment method, then check exit fees and the fix length.
Important: A fixed tariff doesn’t fix your bill. Your bill still changes with your usage (kWh). What’s fixed is the price per unit and the daily standing charge (for the tariff term), unless the supplier changes terms in allowed circumstances set out in the contract.
Get a whole-of-market fixed tariff quote
We’ll use your postcode and contact details so our team (or our comparison journey) can return available fixed tariffs for your area, meter type and payment method. You can ask for fixed-only results.
To compare accurately, have your latest bill handy. If you know your annual usage (kWh) for gas and electricity, you’ll get the most reliable estimate.
What you’ll see in your results
- Unit rates and standing charges for your region
- Tariff term length (e.g., 12, 18 or 24 months)
- Exit fees and any eligibility (e.g., Direct Debit, smart meter)
- Estimated annual cost based on your usage (or typical usage where needed)
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How to choose the best fixed rate tariff for your home
Fixed tariffs look simple, but small differences (like standing charges, payment method and exit fees) can change the outcome. Here’s a practical, UK-specific way to choose.
1) Start with your meter and payment method
- Standard credit meters and smart meters can access most fixed deals.
- Prepayment meters often have fewer options and may price differently.
- Direct Debit frequently unlocks lower rates than paying on receipt of bill.
2) Compare by estimated annual cost (not just unit rate)
A tariff with a slightly higher unit rate can still be cheaper if the standing charge is lower for your region. Always check the combined annual estimate based on your gas and electricity usage.
3) Choose a fix length that matches your plans
- 12 months: flexibility if you may move or refinance.
- 18–24 months: longer price certainty, but higher risk of exit fees if circumstances change.
4) Check exit fees and switching rules
Many fixed tariffs include exit fees (often per fuel). If you think you’ll switch again before the end date, include likely exit fees in your decision.
5) Look for features that matter (and ignore the rest)
- Do you need dual fuel (gas + electricity) or electricity-only?
- Do you have (or need) a smart meter?
- Is customer service important (e.g., phone support, online-only)?
- Are there bundled add-ons you don’t need (which can raise the price)?
Tenants: You can usually switch energy supplier if you pay the bills, even if you rent. If your energy is included in rent or you’re on a managed supply contract, you may not be able to switch—check your tenancy agreement first.
Compare fixed tariffs: what matters most
Use the table below as a quick filter, then compare your shortlisted tariffs by estimated annual cost using your postcode and usage.
| Factor | Why it matters | What to check | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unit rate (p/kWh) | Directly affects each unit of energy used. | Gas and electricity rates; whether rates differ by payment method. | Higher-usage homes where unit rate dominates. |
| Standing charge (p/day) | You pay it regardless of usage; varies by region. | Your region’s standing charge for each fuel. | Low-usage homes and small flats. |
| Fix length | Determines how long prices are protected. | End date; what happens when it ends; renewal options. | People who want budgeting certainty. |
| Exit fees | Can reduce (or wipe out) the benefit of switching early. | Fee per fuel; whether it reduces near the end; any exceptions. | Those confident they’ll stay for the term. |
| Meter & payment eligibility | Some deals are limited to smart meters or Direct Debit. | Smart/standard/prepay; Direct Debit vs pay on receipt. | Anyone who wants realistic availability for their setup. |
Decision checklist (copy/paste)
- My payment method is: Direct Debit / pay on receipt / prepay
- My meter is: smart / standard / Economy 7 / prepay
- I want to fix for: 12 / 18 / 24 months
- Exit fees are: £0 / acceptable / not acceptable
- I’ve compared by: estimated annual cost (not just unit rate)
- I know what happens at the end of the fix (rollover/renewal)
Two realistic scenarios (estimated)
These examples show why the “best” fixed tariff depends on usage and standing charges. Figures are illustrative and not a quote.
- Scenario A: small flat (electricity-only)
- Assumptions: 2,000 kWh/year electricity. Tariff 1: 26p/kWh + 60p/day. Tariff 2: 27p/kWh + 45p/day.
- Estimated annual cost: Tariff 1 = (2,000×£0.26) + (365×£0.60) = £520 + £219 = £739. Tariff 2 = (2,000×£0.27) + (365×£0.45) = £540 + £164 = £704.
- Scenario B: family home (gas + electricity)
- Assumptions: 3,100 kWh/year electricity and 12,000 kWh/year gas. Tariff 1: Elec 26p/kWh + 55p/day; Gas 6.5p/kWh + 32p/day. Tariff 2: Elec 27p/kWh + 45p/day; Gas 6.8p/kWh + 28p/day.
- Estimated annual cost: Tariff 1 = £806 + £201 + £780 + £117 = £1,904. Tariff 2 = £837 + £164 + £816 + £102 = £1,919. (Here, lower unit rates outweigh higher standing charges.)
Tip: If your usage is low, standing charges can matter more than you expect. If usage is high, unit rates usually dominate.
Costs, exclusions and common pitfalls (fixed tariffs)
Exit fees can change the maths
A tariff that looks cheaper on paper may be less attractive if you might leave early. Exit fees are often charged per fuel (gas and electricity separately).
Standing charges vary by region
Rates and standing charges can differ significantly by where you live. Always compare using your postcode, not national headlines.
Direct Debit assumptions
Some tariffs assume monthly Direct Debit and may price higher for other payment methods. If you prefer paying on receipt of bill, filter your results accordingly.
Economy 7 / multi-rate meters
If you’re on Economy 7 (or similar), you need to compare the day and night rates and your split of usage—single-rate comparisons can mislead.
Before you switch: quick accuracy checks
- Confirm your meter type (smart, standard, prepay, Economy 7).
- Use annual kWh where possible (not just monthly spend).
- Check whether prices shown include VAT at 5% (domestic energy usually does).
- Ask what happens when the fix ends (new fix offer vs variable rollover).
Fixed tariff FAQs (UK)
Are fixed energy tariffs cheaper than variable?
Not always. A fix can be cheaper, similar, or more expensive than a variable tariff depending on market conditions and the supplier’s pricing. The key is comparing estimated annual cost for your details and checking any exit fees.
What exactly is “fixed” on a fixed tariff?
Typically your unit rate and standing charge are fixed for the term. Your bill can still change with usage, and your Direct Debit amount may be adjusted by the supplier to match expected costs.
Do fixed tariffs have exit fees?
Many do, but not all. Exit fees are usually shown in the tariff information. They may be charged per fuel (gas and electricity). If you’re likely to move or switch again, prioritise low or zero exit fees.
Can I switch if I’m in a fixed contract?
Usually yes, but you may pay an exit fee unless you’re switching during any fee-free window stated in your contract. If you’re moving home, ask the supplier whether you can transfer the tariff to the new address (not always possible).
Is a fixed tariff the same as the Ofgem price cap?
No. The Ofgem price cap applies to standard variable tariffs (SVTs) and sets a limit on unit rates and standing charges for those tariffs, not a cap on your total bill. Fixed tariffs can be above or below capped SVT rates.
Do I need a smart meter to get a fixed tariff?
Not necessarily. Many fixed deals are available for standard credit meters. Some tariffs (or discounts) may require a smart meter, and prepayment customers may have different options.
I’m on prepayment—can I get a fixed tariff?
Sometimes. Availability can be more limited and pricing can differ. If you want to move to Direct Debit, you may need a credit check and a meter change—your supplier can confirm what’s possible for your property.
What happens when my fixed tariff ends?
If you don’t agree a new deal, you’ll usually roll onto the supplier’s standard variable tariff (SVT) or another default tariff. It’s worth comparing again before the end date so you don’t miss better options.
Trust, methodology and sources
Page details
- Written by
- EnergyPlus Editorial Team
- Reviewed by
- Energy Specialist
- Last updated
- March 2026
How we assess what’s “best” (and the limits)
We don’t label a single tariff as “best for everyone”. Instead, we help you find the best for your household by focusing on total cost and contract fit.
- Primary measure: estimated annual cost using your region, payment method, meter type, and (where available) your annual usage in kWh.
- Secondary checks: exit fees, tariff length, eligibility criteria (e.g., Direct Debit, smart meter), and what happens at the end of the fixed term.
- Assumptions: examples on this page use VAT at 5% and assume prices remain fixed for the stated term; your bill varies with consumption.
- Limitations: availability changes frequently; suppliers may withdraw tariffs, and rates can differ by region and meter setup (including Economy 7 and prepayment). Your credit status and property details can also affect eligibility.
Independent UK sources we use
- Ofgem: Energy price cap information
- Citizens Advice: Energy supply and switching guidance
- GOV.UK: Find energy grants and support (where available)
We aim to keep this guide accurate and practical. If you spot something that looks out of date, please use our quote form and add a note in your message when contacted.
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