Can a smart meter help me get a cheaper energy tariff in the UK?

Yes. A smart meter can give you access to certain smart and time-of-use tariffs (where prices vary by time of day). These tariffs may reduce your bills if you can shift electricity use to cheaper periods, but they are not automatically cheaper for everyone. Compare your current tariff with any smart options and check the unit rates, standing charge and peak/off-peak timings before switching.

Do I need a smart meter to switch energy supplier or change tariff?

No. You can usually switch supplier and change tariff without a smart meter. However, some smart tariffs (such as time-of-use tariffs) may require a compatible smart meter to apply the correct prices at different times.

Which tariffs are typically available with a smart meter?

With a smart meter, you may be eligible for smart/time-of-use tariffs, including off-peak or flexible pricing plans. The best option depends on your household usage patterns—especially whether you can run appliances (e.g., washing machine, dishwasher, EV charging) during lower-cost periods.

Will my bills automatically go down after getting a smart meter?

Not automatically. A smart meter helps by providing accurate readings (reducing estimated bills) and clearer visibility of usage. Savings usually come from switching to a better-value tariff and/or changing when and how you use energy.

How do I know if a time-of-use (smart) tariff will save me money?

Check the unit rates and standing charge for each time band (peak/off-peak), then compare them with your current tariff. If you can shift a meaningful share of electricity usage to cheaper hours, a time-of-use tariff may lower costs. If most of your usage is during peak times, it may increase your bills.

Can I get a cheaper gas tariff with a smart meter?

Potentially, but savings are usually more common with electricity time-of-use pricing rather than gas. A smart meter can still help by giving accurate gas readings and helping you track consumption, which supports better tariff comparisons and budgeting.

Do smart meters affect my energy prices?

The meter itself does not set prices. Your prices are determined by your tariff. A smart meter can enable tariffs with different pricing structures and makes it easier to manage and verify your usage with accurate readings.

What’s the quickest way to find a cheaper tariff if I have (or plan to get) a smart meter?

Compare your current unit rates and standing charge with available alternatives, then check whether you’re eligible for any smart/time-of-use options. If you want to move to a smart tariff, confirm your smart meter is compatible and communicating correctly. For next steps, explore cost-saving guidance and tariff options at https://www.energyplus.co.uk/CostSavingAdvice/.

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

Often yes — but not automatically. A smart meter can unlock tariff options, improve billing accuracy, and help you switch with confidence. Compare whole-of-market UK home energy deals with EnergyPlus and see if a cheaper tariff is available for your postcode.

Check smart-meter friendly tariffs (including time-of-use where available)
Compare electricity, gas or dual fuel from multiple UK suppliers
See estimated costs using your usage details (or typical usage if unsure)
Switch online — we’ll guide you through the next steps

Compare smart meter tariffs Read FAQs

Whole-of-market comparison for UK homes. Prices depend on your region, usage and tariff availability.

Compare smart meter tariffs (whole-of-market)

A smart meter doesn’t automatically make your energy cheaper — the unit rates and standing charges still depend on the tariff you choose. What a smart meter can do is make switching easier, reduce estimated bills, and open up eligibility for certain smart or time-based tariffs.

Use the form to request a comparison for your home. If you’re not sure what kind of smart meter you have (SMETS1 or SMETS2), don’t worry — suppliers can usually confirm during the switch.

Good to know: You can normally switch supplier even with a smart meter. In some cases, smart features may temporarily work in "dumb" mode until the meter is enrolled.

What you’ll typically need to compare accurately

Your postcode (to calculate your regional rates)
Whether you want electricity only, gas only, or dual fuel
Rough annual usage in kWh (if you have it — estimates are fine if not)
Preference for fixed vs variable pricing

Get my comparison

Fill in your details and we’ll help you check tariffs available for your home.

Tip: If you have a recent bill, your annual usage (kWh) helps improve accuracy — but you can still compare without it.

Looking for more ways to cut costs? See our related advice on home energy saving tips.

Why a smart meter can help you find a cheaper tariff

Smart meters don’t change the price of energy by themselves — but they can improve your ability to pick the right tariff and avoid overpaying. Here are the most common ways UK households benefit.

Accurate bills, fewer surprises

Automatic readings reduce estimated billing, helping you avoid building up a hidden balance that can make your monthly payments jump later.

Access to smart/time-based tariffs

Some tariffs are designed around when you use electricity. If you can shift usage (e.g., laundry overnight), you may reduce your effective cost.

Better decisions from real usage

Seeing your usage helps you choose between fixed/variable deals and avoid being on a tariff that doesn’t suit your household patterns.

Easier switching & smoother setup

Suppliers can use smart readings to open and close accounts with less hassle, so your switch is less likely to be delayed by missing meter reads.

Supports budgeting

If your direct debit is misaligned, accurate data helps recalibrate payments so you’re not consistently overpaying or underpaying.

Highlights waste quickly

Usage spikes can indicate inefficient appliances, immersion heaters left on, or heating controls that need attention.

So… can a smart meter get me a cheaper tariff?

In the UK, a smart meter can make it more likely you’ll find a cheaper tariff — especially if you’re currently on an expensive standard variable tariff, if you have high electricity usage at flexible times, or if you want accurate bills and smoother switching. But a smart meter isn’t a discount in itself.

When a smart meter may help you pay less

You can shift some electricity use to cheaper periods (if a time-of-use tariff is available)
Your bills are often estimated and you want them aligned to actual usage
You’re switching supplier and want accurate opening/closing readings
You’re considering EV charging or smarter heating controls in the future

When it won’t make a difference (on its own)

You stay on the same tariff and don’t change how/when you use energy
Your current deal is already highly competitive for your region and usage
You pick a time-of-use deal but most of your usage stays in peak times
Your in-home display isn’t used (and usage habits don’t change)

Bottom line: The cheapest option is usually the tariff with the best combination of unit rates and standing charges for your region and usage — not simply “a smart meter tariff”.

Smart meter tariff types you may see in the UK

Availability depends on supplier, meter setup and your property. This table explains the most common tariff categories and when they can be cheaper.

Tariff type	How it works	When it can be cheaper	Watch outs
Fixed	Unit rates and standing charge are fixed for a set period.	If market prices rise or you want price certainty for budgeting.	Exit fees may apply. Not always cheapest if prices fall.
Standard variable	Rates can change; often aligned with the price cap level.	Sometimes fine short-term while you shop around.	Often not the cheapest long-term.
Time-of-use (smart)	Different rates at different times (e.g., day/night or peak/off-peak).	If you can move usage to off-peak (dishwasher, washing machine, EV charging).	Peak rates can be higher. Needs lifestyle fit.
EV tariffs	Usually a form of time-of-use with very cheap overnight rates.	If you charge at home overnight consistently.	Day rates may be higher. Not ideal without EV/home charging habits.
Prepayment (smart PAYG)	Top up digitally; smart meter tracks credit.	If you prefer budgeting by topping up and manage usage closely.	Rates can be higher than credit tariffs; eligibility varies.

Not sure which applies to you? Start with a comparison based on your postcode and current setup: use the EnergyPlus form.

How to get a cheaper tariff with a smart meter (practical steps)

Follow these steps to maximise your chances of paying less — whether you want a simple fixed deal or you’re considering time-of-use pricing.

Check your current tariff details: unit rates, standing charges, and whether you’re on a fixed or variable plan. Your latest bill or online account will show this.
Know your usage (even roughly): annual kWh is best, but if you don’t have it, use typical low/medium/high estimates and refine later.
Decide what “cheaper” means for you: lowest total annual cost, lowest monthly direct debit, or price certainty. The cheapest headline unit rate isn’t always the cheapest overall.
Compare whole-of-market options: check fixed, variable and any smart/time-based tariffs that match your property and region.
If considering time-of-use: think about when you use electricity (cooking, washing, heating, EV charging). Savings come from shifting usage to cheaper hours.
Switch and submit opening readings if asked: smart meters often send readings automatically, but keep a photo of the meter on switch day for peace of mind.

Quick win: If you’re on a standard variable tariff, comparing fixed deals available in your postcode is often the fastest route to a cheaper tariff.

Will my smart meter affect switching in the UK?

SMETS1 vs SMETS2

SMETS2 meters are designed to work across suppliers more smoothly. SMETS1 meters may sometimes lose smart functionality after switching (temporarily or until enrolled), but you can still switch.

If your meter goes “dumb”

“Dumb mode” usually means the meter can’t send readings automatically for a period. You may be asked to submit manual readings while it’s being connected.

Reassurance: Having a smart meter shouldn’t stop you from switching supplier. If a specific tariff has extra requirements, we’ll help you understand them during comparison.

Common mistakes that stop people getting cheaper smart meter tariffs

Only comparing unit rates

Standing charges vary by region and can materially affect the total. Always compare projected annual cost where possible.

Choosing time-of-use without shifting usage

If most of your usage stays in peak periods, a time-based tariff may cost more — even if off-peak looks very cheap.

Ignoring direct debit alignment

A high monthly payment isn’t always “expensive energy” — it can be catching up a balance. Smart readings help, but you may need a payment review too.

Not checking your region

Rates differ across Great Britain due to network costs. Your postcode is key to determining what’s genuinely cheaper for you.

Assuming smart meter = cheaper

A smart meter is a tool. The savings come from better tariff choice and (optionally) better usage habits.

Overlooking exit fees on fixed deals

If you’re mid-contract, early exit fees can outweigh short-term savings. Check your end date before switching.

FAQs: cheaper tariffs and smart meters in the UK

Do energy suppliers offer discounts for having a smart meter?

Not usually as a simple “discount”. Instead, some suppliers offer tariffs that require a smart meter (often time-of-use). Whether it’s cheaper depends on your usage patterns and region.

Can I get a cheaper tariff if I don’t have a smart meter?

Yes. Many fixed and variable tariffs don’t require a smart meter. However, you may have fewer options if you’re looking for time-of-use pricing.

Will a smart meter reduce my bills without switching?

It can help you use less energy by making usage visible (and by improving accuracy), but it won’t reduce unit rates by itself. For tariff savings, you typically need to compare and switch.

Are smart meter tariffs available everywhere in the UK?

Availability varies by supplier and meter setup. Your postcode also matters because energy rates differ by region. Comparing for your postcode is the fastest way to see what’s available.

Do smart meters make switching quicker?

They can help by reducing meter-reading issues. Actual switching times vary, but smart readings often make opening/closing bills simpler and more accurate.

Is a time-of-use tariff right for me?

It can be if you can move consumption into off-peak hours (e.g., EV charging overnight). If your usage is mostly in the evening peak, it may not save you money.

Want personalised options? Compare tariffs for your postcode and we’ll help you check what you could pay.

Trusted switching support for UK households

Here’s what customers typically value when comparing and switching through a whole-of-market service like EnergyPlus:

“I didn’t realise my standing charge was the main issue. The comparison helped me find a better overall cost for my area.”

— UK homeowner

“Switching with a smart meter was straightforward. Having everything explained clearly made it less stressful.”

— Dual fuel customer

“Helpful to see options beyond my current supplier — and to understand whether time-of-use would actually suit us.”

— Family household

Transparency matters: Always compare based on your postcode and expected usage. A tariff that’s cheapest for one household may not be cheapest for another.

Ready to see if a smart meter could mean a cheaper tariff?

Compare whole-of-market home energy deals for your postcode and switch with confidence. If a smart/time-of-use option is suitable, we’ll help you spot it.

Start my comparison See tariff types

Home energy only. Tariff availability and prices vary by region, usage and supplier criteria.

Prefer to do it in one step?

Jump back to the form and submit your postcode and contact details: go to comparison form.

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Updated on 14 Feb 2026