Do energy suppliers require a smart meter to switch tariffs?

In most cases, no. Switching tariffs or suppliers is typically based on your address, current meter type (credit or prepayment), and payment method—not whether you have a smart meter. A supplier may require a smart meter only for specific tariff types that rely on smart data (for example, time-of-use or half-hourly pricing).

Will I pay more if I don’t have a smart meter?

Not necessarily. The main difference is how your usage is measured. Without a smart meter, your bills may be estimated unless you submit regular readings. If estimates are wrong, you could overpay temporarily (or underpay and face a catch-up bill later). Submitting monthly readings helps keep costs accurate while still accessing competitive tariffs.

What energy tariffs might need a smart meter?

Tariffs that depend on smart meter data may require one, such as half-hourly (HH) tariffs, some time-of-use deals, and certain EV or smart home tariffs. If your goal is simply a cheaper rate, there are often fixed or standard variable options available without a smart meter.

Can I refuse a smart meter and still switch supplier?

Yes. You can generally refuse a smart meter installation and still switch supplier. You’ll usually remain responsible for providing meter readings. If you have a prepayment meter, available tariffs can be more limited, but switching is still often possible depending on your meter setup.

How can I find a cheaper energy tariff without a smart meter?

Compare tariffs using your postcode and typical usage (kWh) if you know it. Check the unit rates and standing charges, and confirm whether a tariff is available for your meter type. For accurate comparisons, take a recent meter reading and keep your bills up to date—then review available options with Energy Plus at https://www.energyplus.co.uk/ so you can identify a cost-effective tariff and switch smoothly.

Do I need a smart meter to get a fixed energy tariff?

Usually no. Most fixed tariffs can be taken with a traditional meter. A fixed tariff locks in the unit rate (and sometimes the standing charge) for a set period, which can help with budgeting—even if you submit readings manually.

Can I get a cheaper energy tariff without a smart meter in the UK?

Q: Can I get a cheaper energy tariff without a smart meter in the UK?

Yes. You can usually switch supplier and move onto a cheaper tariff without having a smart meter. Many standard fixed and variable tariffs don’t require a smart meter—though some discounted deals (such as certain smart/online or half-hourly tariffs) may. If you don’t have a smart meter, you’ll normally give manual meter readings (or use an in-home display if available) to ensure bills are accurate.

Yes. Many UK households can switch to a cheaper gas or electricity tariff without installing a smart meter. Compare whole-of-market deals with EnergyPlus and get switching options based on your home, usage and preferences.

Compare tariffs that don’t require a smart meter (where available)
See options for credit meters and prepayment meters
Get help if your supplier is pushing a smart meter installation
Fast form—no obligation and no sales fluff

Compare tariffs (no smart meter needed) Read FAQs

Home energy only. We compare whole-of-market options where available. Tariff availability depends on meter type, supplier and region.

Compare cheaper tariffs—without installing a smart meter

If you’d rather keep your existing meter, you can still switch supplier and tariff in most cases. Some deals are marketed as “smart” tariffs (typically requiring half-hourly readings), but plenty of standard fixed and variable tariffs can be available without a smart meter.

To find the best options for your home, we’ll match tariffs by meter type, payment method (Direct Debit, pay on receipt, or prepayment) and your annual usage—no smart meter required to start the comparison.

Quick answer

You can usually switch to a cheaper energy tariff without a smart meter in the UK. The key is choosing tariffs compatible with your current meter and readings (manual or traditional). If a tariff requires smart functionality, we’ll help you identify alternatives.

What you’ll need (takes 2 minutes)

Your postcode and whether it’s gas, electric or dual fuel
Rough annual usage (or a recent bill—estimate is fine)
Your meter type (credit, Economy 7, smart in “dumb” mode, or prepayment)
How you prefer to pay (often Direct Debit unlocks lower rates)

Get whole-of-market switching options

Fill in the form and we’ll compare tariffs that fit your meter setup—no smart meter install required to get started.

First name

Surname

Telephone

Postcode

Smart meter preference

This helps us filter tariff types. It won’t stop you getting results.

How it works

By submitting, you’re asking EnergyPlus to contact you about home energy quotes. You can opt out anytime. Please ensure your details are correct so we can match tariffs to your meter type.

Prefer to compare first?

Use the jump links to check which tariffs may require a smart meter and what to do if you’re on prepayment.

Why switching without a smart meter can still save you money

Fixed deals may not require smart tech

Many fixed tariffs are compatible with traditional meters—you provide readings or your supplier estimates usage between readings.

You can still manage bills accurately

Regular meter readings reduce estimated bills and help keep Direct Debit amounts closer to your real usage.

Keep control of installation timing

You can choose if and when a smart meter is fitted. Switching suppliers doesn’t automatically mean you must accept an appointment.

Options for Economy 7 and multi-rate

If you have Economy 7 (two rates), you may still find suitable tariffs without a smart meter—just ensure the tariff supports multi-rate billing.

Prepayment is improving

More suppliers are offering better-value prepayment options than in the past, though availability depends on region and meter type.

Whole-of-market comparison

EnergyPlus checks whole-of-market options where available, so you can see more of what’s actually open to you without changing your meter first.

How switching works if you don’t have a smart meter

Switching energy supplier in the UK is designed to be straightforward. Not having a smart meter usually just means you’ll rely on manual readings (or occasional estimates) instead of automatic readings.

Compare tariffs based on your postcode, payment method and meter type.
Pick your tariff (fixed or variable) and confirm your details.
Provide opening meter readings (so you don’t pay twice for the same energy).
Switch completes—your supply stays on throughout, and you’ll get a final bill from the old supplier.

Tip: take a photo of your meter on switch day

A timestamped photo helps if there’s ever a dispute about opening/closing readings—especially with older meters or Economy 7 (two-rate) meters.

Which tariffs might require a smart meter (and which don’t)

Tariff requirements vary by supplier. As a rule, “smart” or “time-of-use” tariffs are more likely to require a smart meter, while standard fixed/variable tariffs often work with traditional meters.

Tariff type	Smart meter needed?	What it means for you
Standard fixed tariff	Usually No	Often compatible with traditional meters; you’ll submit readings periodically.
Standard variable tariff (SVT)	No	Your supplier can bill using readings/estimates; prices can change (e.g., with the price cap).
Economy 7 / multi-rate	No (but tariff must support it)	You need a tariff that bills day/night rates correctly. Provide both readings.
Time-of-use / half-hourly	Often Yes	Usually relies on smart readings. If you don’t want smart, choose a standard tariff instead.
EV/heat pump-specific tariffs	Sometimes	Some require smart readings; others don’t. We’ll check eligibility and alternatives.
Prepayment tariffs	No (depends on meter)	Traditional key/card meters may have fewer choices; smart prepay can widen options but isn’t always required.

Important

Suppliers can set tariff eligibility criteria. If a tariff requires smart readings, the best approach is usually to choose a different tariff rather than agree to an installation you don’t want. If you’re unsure, submit the form above and we’ll identify compatible options.

Can you get a cheaper tariff without a smart meter if you’re on prepayment?

Possibly—but options can be more limited compared to credit meters. Your eligibility depends on the type of prepayment meter you have (traditional key/card versus smart prepay) and which suppliers serve your region.

If you have a traditional key/card meter

You may see fewer tariff choices
Some suppliers require a meter exchange before switching
Keeping top-ups and debt settings accurate is important

If you have (or accept) smart prepay

You can often top up remotely/app
Tariff availability may improve
Still worth comparing—prices vary by supplier

Not sure what meter you have?

Tell us your payment method in the form and we’ll guide you. If you can, check your meter for a key slot/card reader, or look at your bill for “PPM”.

Common smart meter concerns (and practical workarounds)

Many households search for a cheaper tariff without a smart meter because they’re worried about installation, privacy, signal issues, or simply prefer manual control. Here are the most common issues and what to do.

“My supplier says I must get a smart meter”

For many standard tariffs, you can still switch or stay without a smart meter. If a specific tariff requires one, choose a different tariff instead.

“I’m worried about estimated bills”

Submit readings monthly (or when asked) and keep a photo record. Accurate readings often prevent surprise corrections later.

“I have Economy 7—will I lose it?”

Not if you choose an Economy 7-compatible tariff. Switching is fine, but the tariff must support multi-rate billing.

“Will switching cut off my energy?”

No—your supply stays on. The switch is administrative, and you’ll just move to a new supplier for billing.

“I’m in debt with my supplier”

Debt can affect switching, especially on prepay. You may still have options—tell us and we’ll check what’s realistic.

“My smart meter isn’t working”

Some smart meters operate in a non-smart mode after a switch. You can still be billed—provide readings until it’s resolved.

FAQs: cheaper energy tariffs without a smart meter

Can suppliers force me to have a smart meter to switch?

For many tariffs, no. However, a supplier can set conditions for a particular tariff (for example, a tariff that needs half-hourly readings). If you don’t want a smart meter, the solution is typically to choose a tariff that doesn’t require one.

Will I pay more without a smart meter?

Not automatically. Pricing depends on the tariff and payment method. Some smart-only tariffs may be cheaper at certain times, but standard tariffs can still be competitive—especially if you’re moving off a poor-value default tariff.

How do I find out my meter type?

Your bill often shows it (e.g., “single-rate”, “two-rate”, “Economy 7”, or “PPM”). You can also look at the meter itself: Economy 7 usually displays two registers; prepayment has a key slot/card reader.

Can I stay on Direct Debit without a smart meter?

Yes. Direct Debit is available with traditional meters and often unlocks better rates than paying on receipt. Keep readings up to date so your payments better match your usage.

If I switch, do I need to book a meter appointment?

Usually not. Switching supplier is separate from meter installation. If your chosen tariff includes a smart meter offer, you can ask about alternatives or pick a tariff without an installation requirement.

Do I need my MPAN/MPRN?

It helps but isn’t essential to start. A recent bill is useful if you have it, but you can still get options with postcode and basic details.

Ready to check what’s available for your home?

Go back to the comparison form—we’ll filter for your meter situation and highlight tariffs that don’t require smart readings.

What customers value about EnergyPlus

“I thought I’d be forced into a smart meter to get a decent deal. The options were explained clearly and I switched without hassle.”

— Homeowner, West Midlands

“Helpful for Economy 7. They made sure the tariff matched my meter so billing stayed correct.”

— Tenant, Greater Manchester

“No pressure to install anything. I just wanted lower rates and a straightforward switch.”

— Household customer, Kent

Trust markers

UK home energy comparison support
Whole-of-market options where available
Clear guidance on meter compatibility and switching steps

Check cheaper tariffs for your home (no smart meter required)

Tell us your postcode and contact details and we’ll match you with tariffs compatible with your current meter setup—plus alternatives if a deal requires smart readings.

Switching support for gas, electric or dual fuel
Help for credit meters, Economy 7 and prepayment
No interruption to supply during the switch

Start my comparison See tariff requirements

Already filled the form? Check the FAQs for next steps and meter reading tips.

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Updated on 13 Jan 2026