What is a free weekend electricity tariff?

A free weekend electricity tariff is a time-of-use deal where your electricity unit rate is discounted (sometimes to 0p) during set weekend hours. Outside those hours, the unit rate may be higher than standard tariffs, so it works best if you can shift a meaningful share of your usage to the free period. Compare offers and check the exact ‘free’ window before switching.

Are free weekend electricity deals actually cheaper overall?

They can be cheaper if you use enough electricity during the free weekend window to offset potentially higher weekday rates and any standing charge differences. As a rule of thumb, the more you can move heavy-use activities (laundry, dishwasher, EV charging) into the weekend free hours, the more likely you are to save. Use an annual cost comparison before switching.

Do I need a smart meter for free weekend electricity tariffs in the UK?

In most cases, yes. Suppliers typically require a smart meter (or another half-hourly capable meter) so they can record when you use electricity and apply the free weekend rate correctly. If you don’t have one, you may still be able to switch, but you’ll usually need a smart meter installation to access the tariff features.

What hours count as the ‘free weekend’ period?

The free window varies by supplier and tariff—some apply it for a fixed block of hours on Saturday and Sunday, while others use longer weekend periods. Always check the tariff’s Terms & Conditions for the exact start and end times, time zone, and whether bank holidays are included.

Is free weekend electricity good for EV charging?

It can be, especially if you can schedule most charging into the free weekend hours. However, dedicated EV tariffs may offer very low overnight rates across more days. The best choice depends on your weekly mileage, charging flexibility, and how much other home usage you can shift to the free window.

What should I check before switching to a free weekend electricity tariff?

Check: (1) the exact free weekend hours, (2) weekday unit rates and standing charge, (3) contract length and any exit fees, (4) whether a smart meter is required, (5) price change terms for variable deals, and (6) whether you can realistically move usage (appliances/EV) into the free period. A full annual cost comparison is the safest way to judge savings.

Can I combine free weekend electricity with solar panels or a battery?

Yes. If you have solar and/or a home battery, you can optimise by charging your battery during the free weekend window (where allowed) and using stored energy during higher-priced periods. The best setup depends on export rates, battery size, and the tariff’s rules.

How do I compare and switch to the best tariff with free weekend electricity?

Start by estimating how much electricity you can shift to the free weekend hours (kWh). Then compare the full cost—weekday unit rates, weekend pricing, standing charges, and fees—across suppliers. You can review guidance and next steps here: https://www.energyplus.co.uk/CostSavingAdvice/best-tariffs-with-free-weekend-electricity-uk

Best tariffs with free weekend electricity (UK)

Compare whole-of-market energy tariffs that offer discounted or free weekend electricity, and see if they fit your home’s routine. Tell us a few details and EnergyPlus will match you with suitable deals you can switch to.

Whole-of-market comparison (not just a small panel)
See if “free weekend” really beats a standard tariff for your usage
Home energy only — tailored to your postcode and meter type
Switch help included (online in minutes)

Check free weekend deals How free weekend tariffs work

No obligation. We’ll show options based on your details and eligibility. Availability varies by supplier, meter type and region.

Compare UK tariffs with free or discounted weekend electricity

“Free weekend electricity” tariffs can be great for homes that shift energy-heavy tasks to Saturdays and Sundays — but they’re not automatically the cheapest. Some deals offset the “free” period with higher weekday unit rates, a standing charge, or specific eligibility requirements (often a smart meter).

EnergyPlus compares whole-of-market options where available, including tariffs that advertise free weekend electricity, off-peak weekend rates, or time-of-use pricing. Fill in the form and we’ll narrow down what’s actually available for your home and show you suitable deals to switch to.

Quick tip: If you can run appliances like the washing machine, tumble dryer, dishwasher, batch cooking, or EV charging mainly at weekends, a weekend-free tariff may reduce your bills — but only if weekday rates don’t wipe out the gains.

Who benefits most from free weekend electricity?

These tariffs tend to work best when a meaningful share of your electricity use can be moved to weekends. Here are common household profiles where weekend-free energy can make a real difference.

Busy weekday households

If weekdays are all about quick meals and short showers, but weekends include laundry, cleaning, cooking and gadget charging, you can align your usage to the free period.

Electric vehicle (EV) owners

Some time-of-use tariffs can stack up well if you can charge mainly on weekends. Your exact savings depend on kWh rates, battery size and how many miles you do.

Homes with high electricity loads

Large families, heavy appliance users and homes with lots of entertainment devices may see bigger wins — as long as weekday rates aren’t significantly higher.

What does “free weekend electricity” actually mean in the UK?

In practice, “free weekend electricity” is usually a time-limited promotional rate where the unit rate for electricity during specified weekend hours is reduced (sometimes to £0 per kWh). The key detail is the hours and what happens to the weekday unit rate and standing charge.

Typical features to look for

Defined weekend window (e.g., Sat–Sun, or Fri evening through Sunday)
Smart meter requirement to measure usage by time band
Single-rate weekdays that can be higher than standard tariffs
Exit fees or minimum term on fixed deals
Online account management and digital billing

What it isn’t

It’s not a guarantee your total bill will be lower
It’s not always free for all weekend hours
It doesn’t reduce your standing charge (unless the tariff explicitly does)
It doesn’t automatically include gas savings (if you’re dual fuel)

Types of weekend electricity tariffs you may see

Suppliers label these deals in different ways. When we compare for you, we focus on the underlying structure — because that’s what determines whether you save.

Tariff structure	How it works	Best for	Watch-outs
Weekend-free / zero-rate window	Electricity is free (or close to free) during defined weekend hours.	Homes that can shift laundry, cooking, EV charging to weekends.	Weekday unit rates can be higher; standing charge still applies.
Weekend off-peak rate	A reduced weekend unit price rather than £0/kWh.	Steady users who still want lower weekend costs without extreme swings.	Discount may be modest; check weekday vs standard deals.
Time-of-use (multi-rate)	Different prices for different times (peak/off-peak) across the week.	Tech-friendly households that can plan usage by time bands.	Peak rates can be expensive; not ideal for daytime-heavy use.
Fixed vs variable	Fixed keeps unit rates steady for a term; variable can change over time.	Fixed if you want certainty; variable if you want flexibility.	Fixed may have exit fees; variable rates can increase.

Note: If you have Economy 7 / Economy 10, your options and time bands can differ. We’ll consider your meter type when matching deals.

How to decide if a free weekend tariff will save you money

The best way to judge a weekend-free electricity tariff is to compare your likely weekly cost on that deal versus a competitive standard tariff. Focus on the parts of the bill that change: unit rates by time band and the standing charge.

Estimate your weekend share. Roughly, what percentage of your electricity is used on Saturday/Sunday?
Check the free window. Confirm the exact hours and whether Friday evening counts.
Compare weekday unit rates. If weekdays are notably higher, you’ll need a high weekend share to break even.
Don’t ignore standing charge. A higher standing charge can reduce savings, especially for low users.
Confirm eligibility. Many weekend/time-of-use deals require a smart meter and may vary by region.

High-impact weekend activities

Tumble dryer cycles and multiple washing loads
Dishwasher runs and batch cooking
Electric showers (if used more at weekends)
EV charging and home battery charging
DIY tools and garden equipment

Common reasons people don’t save

Most usage happens weekday mornings/evenings
Free period is narrow and misses their peak weekend use
They forget to move routine appliance usage
They compare only the “free” claim, not the full tariff costs

Weekend-free electricity savings checklist (UK homes)

Use this quick checklist before you switch. If you tick most of these, you’re more likely to benefit from a free weekend electricity tariff.

Usage fit

I can shift 25–40%+ of electricity to weekends
I can avoid high weekday peak periods where possible
I have (or can get) a smart meter

Tariff checks

I’ve checked the exact free weekend hours
I’ve compared the weekday unit rate to a standard tariff
I’ve checked the standing charge and any exit fees

Home set-up

I can use timers/smart plugs for appliances
I’m happy with online billing and account management
I’ve considered whether gas is separate (if dual fuel)

If you’re unsure: fill in the comparison form and we’ll help you check whether a weekend-free structure beats other competitive options for your household.

Eligibility and practical considerations

Smart meters and meter types

Most “free weekend” or time-of-use tariffs require a smart meter so your supplier can bill different rates at different times. If you’re on an older multi-rate meter (such as Economy 7), some suppliers may offer alternatives or a smart meter upgrade.

Region and network differences

Prices and availability can vary by region because of distribution costs. A tariff advertised nationally may not be offered everywhere, or the rates may differ. That’s why we ask for your postcode before showing matched deals.

Renters and flats

You can usually switch supplier if you pay the energy bills. If your landlord includes bills or you have a managed meter arrangement, options can be limited. We’ll help you work out what’s possible.

Prepayment meters

Some specialist time-of-use deals may not be available on all prepayment setups. If you’re prepay, we can still compare suitable tariffs and explain any steps to switch meter type where appropriate.

FAQs: free weekend electricity tariffs

Are free weekend electricity tariffs really free?

Often the unit rate during a defined weekend window is £0/kWh (or heavily discounted). You still typically pay a standing charge, and weekday unit rates may be higher. The best tariff is the one with the lowest overall cost for your usage pattern.

Do I need a smart meter?

In most cases, yes. Time-banded pricing needs smart readings. If you don’t have one, we can still show alternatives, and some suppliers can install a smart meter after you switch.

Can I get free weekend electricity on a fixed tariff?

Sometimes. Some suppliers offer fixed-term time-of-use tariffs where the rates are fixed for a set period (with potential exit fees). Others are variable. We’ll highlight contract length and key terms when showing your options.

Is it worth switching if I’m on the price cap?

The price cap sets limits for standard variable tariffs, not a “best price for everyone”. If you can shift usage to weekends, a time-of-use deal could work out cheaper — but only if the overall maths beats what you’re paying now.

What if I use more electricity on weekdays?

A weekend-free tariff may not be ideal if most of your consumption is weekday daytime or evening, especially where weekday peak rates are higher. In that case, a competitive single-rate tariff may be better. Use our comparison form and we’ll show the best-fit options.

Will switching interrupt my electricity supply?

No — switching supplier should not cut off your supply. Your electricity and gas still come through the same pipes and wires; only the billing supplier changes.

Why compare with EnergyPlus?

Weekend-free electricity deals can be tricky to compare because the headline offer doesn’t tell you the full cost. EnergyPlus focuses on suitability, transparency and whole-of-market matching where available.

Whole-of-market approach

We look beyond a narrow panel to identify tariffs that match your home, including time-of-use and weekend-focused options where available.

Clear, practical guidance

We explain what “free weekend electricity” means in real terms and what to check before you switch, so you can decide confidently.

Switch support

From eligibility checks to next steps, we help you move to a suitable tariff without the usual hassle.

Customer feedback

“The weekend tariff sounded great, but EnergyPlus helped me compare it properly. I switched to a deal that matched our routine and the savings made sense.”

— UK homeowner (feedback example)

What we prioritise

Suitability for your meter type and region
Upfront clarity on rates, standing charge and key terms
Helping you choose based on total cost, not just headlines

Ready to see the best weekend electricity tariffs for your home?

Tell us your postcode and a couple of details. We’ll match you with suitable whole-of-market options — including weekend-free or discounted weekend electricity deals where available — and help you compare on total cost.

Start my comparison Read FAQs

Home energy only. Tariff availability varies by supplier, region and meter type. Always check the tariff information before you switch.

What you’ll need

Your postcode
Whether you have a smart meter (if known)
A recent bill (helpful, not essential)
Rough idea of weekend vs weekday usage

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Updated on 14 Feb 2026