What should I ask my supplier for when negotiating?

Ask for their best available tariff for your account, any retention/loyalty offers, and whether they can match or beat a cheaper comparable tariff you’ve found. Also ask about exit fees, contract end date, payment method discounts (e.g., Direct Debit), and whether any standing charge or unit rate reductions are available.

When is the best time to haggle with an energy supplier?

The best time is 3–6 weeks before your fixed deal ends, or immediately after you’re moved to a standard variable tariff. This is when suppliers are most motivated to keep you from switching. If you’ve had a price increase, that’s also a strong moment to ask for a better option.

What information do I need before I call to negotiate?

Have your latest bill to hand, your current tariff name, unit rates (p/kWh) and standing charge, payment method, contract end date, and your annual usage (kWh) for gas and/or electricity. Knowing a competitor quote for the same payment method and region helps you negotiate more confidently.

Will my supplier match a cheaper energy deal?

Sometimes. Many suppliers won’t ‘price match’ formally, but they may offer an alternative tariff, a reduced rate, or a retention offer if you’re likely to leave. If they can’t improve the price, you can still ask about contract flexibility, exit fees, and billing support to improve overall value.

Can I negotiate if I’m in a fixed energy contract?

You can ask, but your options may be limited and you could face exit fees if you leave early. It’s still worth checking if the supplier can move you to another tariff without penalties or confirm whether any cooling-off period applies (e.g., after switching or agreeing a new plan).

What if my supplier won’t offer a better deal?

If they can’t improve your tariff, compare options and consider switching. You can also ask to be placed on the cheapest available tariff they offer, check your meter type (smart/standard, prepay), and review payment method—small changes can reduce your effective cost.

Is switching supplier usually better than haggling?

Often, yes—because the best savings typically come from moving to a cheaper tariff rather than negotiating a small reduction. A good approach is to get a quote first, then call your current supplier with the figures and give them a chance to compete.

How can Energy Plus help me save if I can’t negotiate?

Energy Plus can help you compare available tariffs and understand your options so you can make an informed choice—whether that’s staying put on a better plan or switching. Start here: https://www.energyplus.co.uk/

Can I haggle with my energy supplier in the UK?

Q: Can I haggle with my energy supplier in the UK?

Yes, you can try—especially if you’re out of contract or your fixed tariff is ending. While UK energy prices are often set by published tariffs, suppliers may still offer retention deals, discounted add-ons, or alternative tariffs if you ask to leave. It’s worth contacting them and comparing against other available deals before you agree to anything.

You can try, but most UK energy prices are set by tariffs rather than negotiation. The fastest way to lower bills is usually comparing whole-of-market deals and switching. Use EnergyPlus to check what you could pay next—without awkward phone calls.

See whole-of-market home energy deals in minutes
Compare fixed vs variable options and estimate savings
Switch online with support if you’re stuck
No impact on credit score for a typical switch

Compare energy deals How haggling works

Home energy only. Switching normally completes in around 5 working days. You won’t lose supply during a switch.

Skip the haggling: compare whole-of-market energy deals

In the UK, most households can’t negotiate a bespoke unit rate the way you might with broadband. Energy suppliers typically sell standard tariffs with published prices. That’s why the practical alternative to “haggling” is comparing what’s available and switching to a better deal.

EnergyPlus.co.uk is a whole-of-market comparison service for home energy. Fill in the form and we’ll help you find suitable tariffs—whether you want a fixed rate for budgeting or a variable option for flexibility.

Good to know: You won’t be cut off when you switch. Your energy supply continues, and your new supplier handles most of the process.

So… can you haggle with an energy supplier in the UK?

Sometimes you can negotiate around the edges—but it’s rare to get a special “just for you” unit rate. UK home energy is generally sold as published tariffs, and suppliers are constrained by operational rules and pricing structures. That said, phoning your supplier can still be worthwhile in certain situations.

What “haggling” usually means

Asking if there’s a cheaper tariff you can move to
Requesting a fixed deal or lower standing charge option
Checking if any fees can be waived (e.g. exit fee flexibility)
Getting help to correct billing issues or meter problems

When it can work best

You’re out of contract / on a standard variable tariff (SVT)
You’ve got a strong alternative quote to reference
Your circumstances changed (moving home, smart meter install, payment method)
You can switch payment method (e.g. to Direct Debit) if it lowers the price

When it’s unlikely to help

You’re already on a competitive fixed tariff with an exit fee
Market prices have risen and cheaper tariffs have disappeared
Your supplier only offers a small range of tariffs
You’re trying to negotiate the unit rate itself (often not possible)

What to say when you call (UK haggling script)

If you decide to contact your supplier, keep it simple and fact-based. Your aim is to confirm (a) what tariff you’re on, (b) what alternatives exist, and (c) whether switching away is better value.

Confirm your current tariff: “Can you confirm my tariff name, unit rates, standing charges, and whether there’s an exit fee?”
Ask for the cheapest available tariff: “What is the cheapest tariff you can offer me today for gas and electricity?”
Ask about fixed deals: “Do you have any fixed tariffs available, and what are the full rates and contract length?”
Discuss payment method: “Would paying by Direct Debit reduce my rates compared to pay-on-receipt or prepayment?”
Use a comparison quote: “I’ve seen a cheaper tariff elsewhere—can you match or beat it? If not, I may switch.”
Check practicalities: “If I switch, are there any fees or changes I should be aware of?”

Tip: Have a recent bill to hand (or log in to your online account). Ask them to quote the unit rate (p/kWh) and standing charge (p/day) for both fuels, plus any discounts and end dates.

What UK suppliers can realistically do (and what they can’t)

Understanding the difference between a genuine discount and a tariff change helps you avoid wasting time. Use the table below as a quick guide when you’re on the phone—or when you compare deals online.

Request	Often possible?	What to check
Move from SVT to a cheaper tariff with the same supplier	Sometimes	Unit rate + standing charge, contract length, exit fees
Switch to a fixed tariff	Often	Fix end date, early exit fee, what happens when it ends
Negotiate your personal unit rate	Rare	Suppliers typically sell standard tariffs, not bespoke pricing
Lower your standing charge	Sometimes	Some tariffs trade lower standing charge for higher unit rates
Waive an exit fee	Occasionally	Ask for goodwill, check if you’re within any fee-free period
Correct a high bill / billing error	Yes	Meter reads, estimated vs actual, smart meter data issues
Set up an affordable payment plan	Yes	If you’re struggling, ask about repayment plans and support

If your supplier’s “best offer” still looks expensive, that’s when whole-of-market comparison is valuable—because the best tariff for you may be with a different supplier.

How to tell if you’re being offered a good deal

When you “haggle”, it’s easy to focus on the headline monthly Direct Debit. A better way is to compare the underlying rates and your annual cost based on your usage.

The 3 numbers to compare

Electricity unit rate (p/kWh)
Gas unit rate (p/kWh) (if you have gas)
Standing charge (p/day) for each fuel

Two tariffs can have the same monthly payment but different rates—meaning you may underpay now and get a catch-up bill later, or overpay unnecessarily.

Costs to watch for

Exit fees on fixed tariffs
End date and what you move to afterwards
Dual fuel vs separate suppliers (either can be cheaper)
Smart meter / meter type restrictions on certain tariffs

A “discount” isn’t a win if it locks you into a higher total cost.

Quick check: Ask the supplier to email you the full tariff details (rates, standing charges, contract length, exit fees). Then compare it against whole-of-market quotes using the same postcode and payment method.

Common haggling mistakes (and how to avoid them)

Comparing monthly payments only

Direct Debits are estimates. Compare unit rates and standing charges, then look at annual cost based on your usage.

Forgetting exit fees

If you’re mid-fix, an exit fee can wipe out short-term savings. Ask the supplier to confirm fees in writing.

Not asking for the tariff name

“Our best deal” is vague. Get the exact tariff name and full rates so you can compare like-for-like.

Missing cheaper payment methods

Prices can differ by payment method. Ask for rates under Direct Debit, pay-on-receipt, and prepayment (if relevant).

Not checking meter setup

Some tariffs depend on smart meters or certain meter types. Confirm compatibility before agreeing to switch.

Delaying after getting a quote

Tariffs can change. If you’ve found a better deal, act while it’s available—especially on fixed offers.

FAQs: haggling and switching energy in the UK

Will my supplier match another quote?

They might offer an alternative tariff, but “matching” isn’t guaranteed. Many suppliers won’t match a competitor’s exact price. Your best leverage is having a clear quote and being ready to switch.

Can I get a discount for being a loyal customer?

Loyalty discounts are uncommon in UK home energy compared to other services. The most reliable way to pay less is to move to a cheaper tariff—either with your current supplier or by switching.

Does switching energy affect my credit score?

A typical supplier switch for home energy does not affect your credit score in the way a loan application would. Some suppliers may carry out checks for certain payment types. If you’re unsure, ask the supplier what checks they perform.

I’m on a prepayment meter—can I haggle or switch?

You may be able to switch, but available tariffs can be more limited. If you’re struggling to pay, ask your supplier about support options and repayment plans. Comparing the whole market can still show what’s available for your meter type and postcode.

What if I have debt with my current supplier?

Debt can affect switching depending on circumstances and meter type. If you’re in arrears, speak to your supplier about a manageable payment plan. You can still compare deals to understand what you’d pay elsewhere.

How long does a switch take?

Many switches complete in around 5 working days. You remain on supply throughout. If there are meter or address issues, it can take longer—your new supplier will advise.

Why households use EnergyPlus

Whole-of-market view

Instead of relying on what one supplier will offer over the phone, you can see a wider range of home energy tariffs based on your postcode.

Like-for-like comparisons

We focus on the numbers that matter—unit rates, standing charges, contract terms—so you can judge whether a “retention offer” is genuinely better.

Support if you need it

If you add your phone number, we can help you navigate the process—useful if you’ve been bounced between tariffs or aren’t sure what you’re on.

What customers say

“I called my supplier and got nowhere. Comparing options made it obvious which tariff actually lowered the unit rate.”
Homeowner, Manchester

“The advice helped me understand standing charges and exit fees before I agreed to anything on the phone.”
Tenant, Bristol

Ready to stop negotiating and start saving?

If your supplier can’t beat the market, switching is often the simplest route to a lower bill. Compare whole-of-market home energy tariffs and take control of your unit rates and standing charges.

See deals based on your postcode and preferences
Understand fixes, exit fees and what happens at the end of a tariff
Get help if you want support with the switch

Compare now

Fill in the form above to get started, or jump back to the comparison form.

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Updated on 14 Feb 2026