Can I switch to a cheaper single-rate tariff in the UK?

Compare cheaper single-rate tariffs for your home

A single-rate tariff charges one unit rate for electricity all day (plus a standing charge). If your home doesn’t use enough electricity overnight, moving from Economy 7 (two-rate) to single-rate can be a straightforward way to cut costs.

Use the form to get a tailored comparison. We’ll show whole-of-market options for your postcode and usage pattern, so you can decide whether a cheaper single-rate tariff makes sense.

You don’t use much power overnight

If your heating and hot water aren’t set to charge overnight, Economy 7’s higher day rate can outweigh the off-peak discount.

You’ve moved home or changed heating

Swapped from storage heaters to gas/heat pump, installed a combi boiler, or changed timers? Your usage split may no longer suit a two-rate tariff.

Your day rate looks unusually high

Economy 7 day rates can be noticeably higher than standard tariffs. If most of your usage is daytime, single-rate often performs better.

You’re on a default/variable plan

If you’re out of contract, you may be on a standard variable tariff. Comparing fixed single-rate deals can reveal cheaper options.

You want simpler billing

One unit rate can make it easier to estimate costs, track usage, and understand how changes (like a new appliance) affect your bill.

You’re considering an EV or solar

A single-rate can be a stepping stone while you assess smart tariffs. We’ll help you compare what’s available for your meter and region.

A single-rate electricity tariff charges the same unit rate (pence per kWh) at any time of day. You also pay a daily standing charge. This is the most common setup for UK households.

Economy 7 (and other time-of-use tariffs) has two unit rates: a cheaper off-peak rate for a set number of hours (often overnight) and a higher day rate for the rest of the time. It can work well if you can shift a large share of usage to off-peak.

How to estimate your off-peak share

1. Find your last bill and note the kWh for Day and Night (or Rate 1/Rate 2).
2. Add them together for total electricity usage.
3. Divide night kWh by total kWh to get your off-peak percentage.

Example: Day 2,000 kWh + Night 900 kWh = 2,900 kWh total. Off-peak share = 900/2,900 = ~31%.

Unit rate (p/kWh)

For Economy 7, check both day and night unit rates, not just the off-peak price.

Standing charge (p/day)

A low unit rate can be offset by a higher standing charge, especially for low-usage homes.

Exit fees & contract length

If you’re in a fixed deal, check any exit fees and whether switching now is still worthwhile.

If you have a smart meter

• Some smart meters can be set up for single-rate or multi-rate depending on configuration.
• Your new supplier may arrange the change as part of the switch (where supported).
• You should still compare costs carefully: the cheapest option might be a different structure (for example, a fixed single-rate plan).

If you have a traditional Economy 7 meter

• You can usually switch tariff, but moving to single-rate may require a meter exchange or reconfiguration.
• Off-peak hours can vary by region and setup; don’t assume they are always the same.
• Some suppliers may have limitations on tariff availability depending on the meter type.

Mistake 1: comparing only the unit rate

The standing charge can make a big difference. Always compare an estimated annual cost using your usage pattern.

Mistake 2: ignoring the Economy 7 day rate

Some households stay on Economy 7 even when most electricity is used during the day. If your off-peak share has dropped, re-check.

Mistake 3: not checking for exit fees

If you’re in a fixed contract, an exit fee could reduce or remove savings. We recommend weighing the fee against projected annual savings.

Mistake 4: assuming meter changes are instant

Some switches are tariff-only; others require a meter exchange or reconfiguration. Timeframes vary by supplier and appointment availability.

Will I lose my Economy 7 meter if I switch?

Not always. Some switches are tariff-only. In other cases, a supplier may need to reconfigure or replace the meter to support single-rate billing.

Is switching electricity tariffs safe?

Yes. Your electricity supply doesn’t stop during a standard switch. The process is administrative, with meter readings used to close the old account and open the new one.

Can I switch if I’m in debt to my supplier?

Possibly, depending on the circumstances. If you’re unsure, compare options first and we’ll explain what the supplier will need to proceed.

Do I need my MPAN or meter serial number?

It can help, but it’s not essential to start. A recent bill, your postcode, and a sense of whether you’re on one-rate or two-rate are usually enough for a comparison.

Is single-rate cheaper than Economy 7?

It depends on your usage split. If you don’t use a large share off-peak, single-rate can be cheaper because you avoid the higher Economy 7 day rate.

Can I switch gas and electricity together?

Often yes. Many suppliers offer dual fuel. We’ll show you what’s available for your home and let you compare single fuel vs dual fuel pricing.

“I didn’t realise my Economy 7 day rate was costing so much. Switching to a single-rate fixed tariff made my bills easier to predict.”

Homeowner, West Midlands

“The comparison was clear about standing charges and contract length. I felt confident picking the best option for my usage.”

Tenant, Greater London

“Helpful guidance on whether my meter needed changing. The switch process was straightforward.”

Homeowner, Scotland