Can I get a cheaper energy tariff if I have a smart meter in the UK?

Yes. Having a smart meter does not stop you switching supplier or moving to a cheaper tariff. In many cases, a smart meter can also give you access to smart/time-of-use tariffs (where available) that may reduce costs if you can shift usage to cheaper times. To find the best option, compare your current unit rates, standing charges and any exit fees with alternative tariffs.

Will my smart meter keep working if I switch energy supplier?

Usually, yes. Most smart meters in the UK should continue to work after you switch, including sending readings automatically. If the smart features temporarily stop (for example, automatic readings), your meter will still supply energy and you can provide manual readings until full smart functionality is restored.

Do smart meters automatically make my energy cheaper?

Not automatically. A smart meter can help you save by providing accurate bills (no estimated readings) and showing how and when you use energy, so you can reduce waste. Real savings typically come from choosing a cheaper tariff and changing usage habits.

What is a smart or time-of-use tariff and can it be cheaper?

A smart (time-of-use) tariff charges different rates at different times of day. It can be cheaper if you can shift high-consumption activities (like laundry, dishwashing or EV charging) into off-peak periods. Always check the peak rates, off-peak rates and standing charge to make sure the tariff suits your routine.

How do I check if a tariff is actually cheaper for my home?

Compare the unit rate(s) and standing charge against your typical annual usage (kWh). If you’re considering a time-of-use tariff, review when you use energy as well as how much. Use your latest bill or smart meter usage data, and check whether discounts are fixed-term, variable, or linked to specific payment methods.

Can I move from prepayment to credit with a smart meter to reduce costs?

In many cases, yes. Some households may find credit tariffs cheaper than prepayment tariffs, depending on eligibility and supplier policies. If you have a smart prepayment meter, suppliers can often switch modes remotely. Ask your supplier about options and any checks required.

Are there any fees for switching tariffs or suppliers with a smart meter?

Switching supplier is usually free, but some fixed-term tariffs include exit fees. Check your current tariff terms before switching. Also compare direct debit discounts, dual-fuel discounts (if available), and any introductory rates that may change after the initial period.

What information do I need to switch to a cheaper tariff?

You’ll typically need your address, current supplier, and your electricity (MPAN) and/or gas (MPRN) details (often found on your bill). It also helps to have recent usage figures (kWh) so you can accurately compare tariffs and estimate annual cost.

Where can I compare smart meter tariffs and switch online?

You can compare available tariffs and start a switch directly on EnergyPlus. Visit https://www.energyplus.co.uk/ to explore options and see what tariffs may be available for your postcode and meter type.

Can I get a cheaper energy tariff on a smart meter in the UK?

Yes. A smart meter doesn’t lock you into expensive rates — it can help you access competitive tariffs and manage usage better. Compare whole-of-market deals with EnergyPlus and see what you could switch to in minutes.

Compare smart meter-friendly tariffs across UK suppliers (whole-of-market)
See fixed and variable options, plus smart tariffs where available
Switch with confidence — keep your smart meter and your supply stays on
Quick form: we’ll match options to your postcode and household details

Compare smart meter tariffs Read the FAQs

Home energy only. Switching is free. We’ll never cut you off — your supply continues as normal during a switch.

Check if you can get a cheaper smart meter tariff (UK)

If you already have a smart meter (or you’re due one), you can usually switch to a cheaper energy tariff in the UK just like any other household. The key is matching your postcode, payment method and usage pattern to the most suitable plan — whether that’s a competitive fixed tariff, a variable tariff, or a smart/time-of-use tariff where available.

EnergyPlus is a whole-of-market comparison service. Complete the form and we’ll help you find tariffs that work with smart meters (including smart meter-enabled billing) and highlight any conditions worth knowing before you switch.

Good to know

Your smart meter usually stays in place when you switch supplier. If your meter temporarily loses smart features after a switch, you’ll still be billed accurately — and in many cases functionality is restored automatically as systems update.

Do smart meters make energy cheaper?

A smart meter doesn’t automatically reduce your unit rates — suppliers set prices. But smart meters can help you get cheaper energy in the UK in three main ways:

Better tariff access: some suppliers offer smart-enabled or time-of-use tariffs that rely on half-hourly readings.
More accurate billing: fewer estimated bills can help you spot overpayment or unusual usage sooner.
Usage insight: seeing what your home uses (and when) can make it easier to cut waste.

Will I lose smart features if I switch?

Sometimes a smart meter can operate in “dumb mode” temporarily after a switch (reads may not transmit automatically). Your supply stays on, your meter still measures usage, and functionality is often restored as systems sync. If you’re considering a smart tariff, we’ll help you check compatibility before you commit.

How to get a cheaper tariff with a smart meter

If your goal is a lower bill, focus on the parts you can control: tariff type, payment method, and how your home uses energy. These are the most reliable ways to save when you have a smart meter.

1) Compare fixed vs variable

A fixed tariff can protect you from price rises for a set term, while a variable tariff can be flexible. Your best option depends on current market pricing and your risk preference.

2) Check smart/time-of-use tariffs

If you can shift usage to off-peak (e.g., running appliances later), a smart tariff may reduce costs. It’s most effective when your routine allows flexible demand.

3) Review direct debit and readings

Suppliers often price differently by payment method. A smart meter can also help keep bills accurate, which makes it easier to budget and avoid surprise catch-up bills.

Practical tip

Before switching, take a quick look at your last 12 months of usage (kWh) if you can. Smart meter customers often have this in their online account. Better inputs = more accurate comparisons.

Tariff types explained (and what they mean for smart meters)

Smart meters can support most mainstream tariffs. The important difference is whether a tariff relies on half-hourly readings (common for time-of-use pricing) and whether your meter is communicating properly with the supplier.

Tariff type	How it’s priced	Best for	Smart meter considerations
Fixed	Unit rates and standing charge fixed for a term	Budgeting and price certainty	Works with smart meters; check exit fees and end date
Variable	Prices can change (e.g., supplier changes)	Flexibility, short-term decisions	Smart meter can help keep bills accurate with regular readings
Time-of-use (smart)	Different prices at different times (peak/off-peak)	People who can shift usage to cheaper periods	Typically requires smart meter readings (often half-hourly); confirm eligibility before switching
Prepayment	Pay-as-you-go (including smart PAYG meters)	Tight budget control	Smart prepay can be topped up remotely; compare rates carefully as prices vary

A simple decision guide

If you want stability: compare fixed tariffs first and check any exit fees.
If you can shift usage: ask whether a smart/time-of-use tariff will suit your routine.
If you’re unsure: compare both fixed and variable options, and prioritise the best overall annual cost.
Before you switch: confirm your payment method (Direct Debit vs prepay) and provide accurate usage if available.

What “cheaper” really means

When comparing energy tariffs, look at unit rates (p/kWh) and the standing charge (p/day). A lower unit rate can be offset by a higher standing charge — so always compare using your expected annual kWh.

Smart meter tariff eligibility: what can affect your options?

Meter type (SMETS1 vs SMETS2)

Most UK smart meters are compatible with switching. Some older meters may have limited smart functionality during/after a switch, but you can still move to a cheaper tariff if it meets supplier criteria.

Payment method

Direct Debit, receipt of bill, and prepayment can each have different pricing and tariff availability. If you’re on prepay, smart prepay options may widen your choices.

Economy 7 / multi-rate setups

If you have off-peak heating or storage heaters, your best tariff depends on day/night split. Smart meter readings can help you understand whether multi-rate still makes sense.

Regional charges and standing charge

Standing charges and network costs vary by region. That’s why we ask for your postcode — it materially affects what “cheapest” looks like.

Common mistakes when looking for a cheaper smart meter tariff

Comparing by monthly Direct Debit only

Monthly payments can be adjusted by suppliers. Compare estimated annual cost based on kWh, then decide what payment level is comfortable.

Ignoring the standing charge

If your usage is low, the standing charge becomes a bigger part of your bill. It can change which tariff is truly cheaper.

Picking a smart tariff without changing habits

Time-of-use plans work best if you can move some demand off-peak. If you can’t, a strong fixed tariff may be better value.

Quick check before you switch

Are there exit fees on your current tariff?
Is your tariff end date soon (so you can move without penalties)?
Do you use more energy at set times (evenings, overnight, weekends)?
Is your smart meter currently sending readings? (If not, you can still switch — but it may affect smart tariff eligibility.)

Smart meter tariff FAQs (UK)

Can I switch energy supplier if I have a smart meter?

Yes. In most cases you can switch supplier with a smart meter just like any other meter. Your supply stays on during the switch.

Will my smart meter still work after switching?

Usually yes. Occasionally smart features (like automatic readings) may pause temporarily after switching, but the meter still records usage and billing remains accurate.

Are smart tariffs always cheaper?

Not always. They can be cheaper if you can use more electricity in low-cost periods. If most of your usage is at peak times, a competitive fixed tariff may cost less overall.

Do I need half-hourly readings to get a cheaper tariff?

Only for certain time-of-use tariffs. Standard fixed and variable tariffs don’t usually require half-hourly settlement, though smart readings can still help with accurate bills.

Can a smart meter increase my bill?

A smart meter doesn’t increase your unit rates. Some people notice higher bills because estimated billing stops and usage is measured more accurately. That’s why comparing tariffs and understanding your kWh usage matters.

Is switching free and how long does it take?

Switching is typically free. Timings vary by supplier and circumstances, but your energy supply continues as normal while the switch completes.

Ready to see if you can pay less on a smart meter?

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Fixed, variable and smart/time-of-use options (where available)
Clear costs: unit rates and standing charges
No interruption to your energy supply during switching

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EnergyPlus compares home energy options. Availability and pricing depend on your region, meter setup and supplier criteria.

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Updated on 14 Feb 2026