What is a fixed energy deal?

A fixed energy deal is a tariff where the unit rates (price per kWh) and usually the standing charge are set for a fixed term. This can help you budget and protect you from price rises during the contract period.

How do I find the cheapest fixed energy deal for my home?

Compare fixed deals using your annual usage (kWh), your current unit rate and standing charge, and the contract length. The cheapest fixed deal is the one with the lowest estimated annual cost for your postcode and meter type—not just the lowest headline unit rate.

Is the cheapest fixed tariff always the best option?

Not always. The best value depends on the standing charge, unit rates, exit fees, and how long you plan to stay. A slightly higher priced fixed deal could be better if it has lower exit fees, a more suitable term, or better customer service.

Do fixed energy deals have exit fees?

Many fixed energy tariffs include exit fees if you leave before the end of the term. Always check the tariff information before switching so you understand any costs for ending early.

When is the best time to switch to a fixed energy deal?

It can make sense to switch when fixed rates offer better value than your current tariff, or when you want price certainty for the next 12–24 months. Reviewing your tariff before your current deal ends can help you avoid moving onto a higher-priced standard variable tariff.

Can I switch if I have a smart meter or prepayment meter?

In many cases, yes. Availability depends on your meter type and location. If you have a smart meter, you can usually switch without changing the meter, and you can still submit readings if needed.

How long does it take to switch energy suppliers in the UK?

Switching typically completes within a few working days for most customers. Your energy supply won’t be interrupted, and you’ll receive confirmation of your switch date and final balance from your old supplier.

What information do I need to switch to a fixed deal?

You’ll usually need your address and postcode, your current supplier details, and ideally an up-to-date meter reading. Knowing your annual usage in kWh (from a bill) helps you accurately compare the total yearly cost.

How can I reduce my energy costs if I choose a fixed deal?

Combine a competitive fixed tariff with simple usage changes: lower your thermostat by 1°C, use heating timers and thermostatic radiator valves, run appliances on eco modes, and cut standby power. Small changes can reduce consumption and increase your savings even on a fixed rate.

Where can I compare or switch to an Energy Plus fixed tariff?

You can explore fixed tariff options and cost-saving guidance on Energy Plus. Start from the cheapest fixed energy deal advice page and follow the next steps to check availability for your postcode and estimated usage. Visit: https://www.energyplus.co.uk/CostSavingAdvice/cheapest-fixed-energy-deal

Cheapest fixed energy deal: how to find one (UK)

Fixed deals can protect you from price changes, but the “cheapest” option depends on your postcode, meter type, payment method and usage. Use this guide to compare fixed tariffs safely, avoid costly pitfalls, and see realistic cost examples.

See what “cheapest fixed deal” really means (unit rate vs standing charge)
Check eligibility: credit vs prepayment, smart meter requirements, exit fees
Compare like-for-like with a clear checklist and example scenarios

Get your fixed-deal quote How to compare fixed deals

Estimates only. Prices and availability vary by region, meter type and payment method. Always check tariff terms, including exit fees and discount conditions, before switching.

Fast answer: the cheapest fixed deal is personal to your home

In the UK, there isn’t one universal “cheapest fixed energy deal” that suits everyone. Suppliers set different prices by region (your electricity distribution area), payment method (Direct Debit vs pay on receipt), meter type (standard, smart, prepayment) and fuel (electric-only vs dual fuel). The cheapest option for you is the tariff with the lowest estimated annual cost for your usage in your postcode — not just the lowest unit rate.

What “fixed” means

Your unit rates and standing charges are locked for a set term (often 12–24 months). Your bills still go up/down with usage.

Cheapest is about total cost

A low unit rate can be offset by a high standing charge (or vice versa). Always compare the estimated yearly cost.

Check exit fees & rules

Many fixed deals include exit fees. Some require a smart meter or apply different prices to prepayment.

Quick tip: If you don’t know your usage, use your last 12 months’ kWh from your bill/app. If you’ve moved in recently, you can still compare using a typical usage estimate — but treat results as approximate.

Compare fixed deals available for your postcode

We’ll match you with fixed tariffs from a whole-of-market panel (availability varies). To keep the comparison fair, we use your details to estimate annual cost and show the key terms that can change the real-world price.

What you’ll need: Your postcode and a contact method. If you have it, your annual kWh for gas and electricity improves accuracy.
What we’ll show: Estimated annual cost, unit rates, standing charges, fixed term length, exit fees, and any meter/payment requirements.
No pressure: Submitting the form doesn’t lock you in. You can ask questions before you decide to switch.

Important: If you have a prepayment meter, Economy 7/10, or an EV/time-of-use tariff, tell us — these can change which “cheapest” deal is best.

Get your fixed energy quote

Fill in your details and we’ll help you compare fixed tariffs available in your area.

How to find the cheapest fixed energy deal (without nasty surprises)

A fixed tariff that looks cheapest on a headline rate can turn out pricier once standing charges, usage and restrictions are included. Use this practical, UK-specific approach to compare like-for-like.

Start with your meter and payment method.
Prices can differ for Direct Debit, pay on receipt of bill, and prepayment. Economy 7/10 and smart/time-of-use tariffs need extra care.
Compare the total estimated annual cost for your usage.
Use your annual kWh (best). If you don’t have it, estimates can still help — just treat the “cheapest” result as a starting point.
Check unit rates and standing charges together.
Low standing charges can suit low-usage homes; low unit rates can suit higher-usage homes. The balance matters.
Read the tariff rules (especially exit fees).
A “cheap” fixed deal with £50 per fuel exit fees may not suit you if you might move, change circumstances, or expect prices to fall.
Confirm your switching constraints.
If you rent, you can usually choose your supplier, but check your tenancy. If you have debt on a prepayment meter, switching can be limited until it’s addressed.

Two realistic price scenarios (worked examples)

These examples show how the same “cheap” tariff can cost different amounts depending on usage. Figures are illustrative and exclude VAT nuances beyond standard domestic VAT; your actual rates vary by region and supplier.

Scenario A: Low-usage flat (electric-only)

Usage assumption: 1,800 kWh electricity/year
Tariff: Fixed for 12 months
Example rates: 25p/kWh unit rate; 60p/day standing charge

Estimated annual electricity cost = (1,800 × £0.25) + (365 × £0.60) = £450 + £219 = £669/year

If another deal had a slightly higher unit rate but much lower standing charge, it could be cheaper for low usage.

Scenario B: Family home (dual fuel)

Usage assumption: 3,100 kWh electricity/year; 12,000 kWh gas/year
Tariff: Fixed for 24 months
Example rates: Elec 24p/kWh + 55p/day SC; Gas 6p/kWh + 30p/day SC

Estimated annual electricity = (3,100 × £0.24) + (365 × £0.55) = £744 + £201 = £945

Estimated annual gas = (12,000 × £0.06) + (365 × £0.30) = £720 + £110 = £830

Estimated annual total = £945 + £830 = £1,775/year

Higher usage makes unit rates more important, but standing charges still add up.

What a “cheap fixed deal” usually looks like

Reasonable standing charges for your region
Competitive unit rates for your usage band
Exit fees you’re comfortable with (or none)
No hidden conditions (e.g., tied add-ons or limited payment methods)
Term length that matches your plans (moving? renovating?)

Editor’s note: A 24-month fix can be cheaper today, but carries more “commitment risk”. If you value flexibility, prioritise low/zero exit fees over shaving a small amount off the unit rate.

Fixed vs variable vs tracker: what’s cheapest for you?

“Cheapest” depends on what happens to prices and how much risk you’re willing to take. This table helps you choose the right type of tariff before you compare suppliers.

Tariff type	How prices change	Best for	Watch-outs
Fixed	Unit rate & standing charge stay the same for the term.	Budget certainty; households who prefer stability.	Exit fees; may miss out if prices fall; some require specific meters/payment methods.
Standard variable (SVT)	Supplier can change rates (often in line with market and the Ofgem price cap).	Flexibility; short-term stays; people likely to switch soon.	Prices can rise; not usually the cheapest long-term when competitive fixes exist.
Tracker	Rate follows a published benchmark (varies by product) and can move frequently.	People comfortable with price movement; those expecting prices to fall.	Bills can rise quickly; may still have exit fees; needs careful monitoring.

Decision checklist: does a fixed deal suit you?

Yes, if you want predictable rates and can stay for the term.
Yes, if you’d rather avoid frequent price changes.
Maybe, if you might move — prefer low/zero exit fees.
Maybe not, if you’re already on a very competitive tariff and the difference is small.
Maybe not, if you need maximum flexibility (or you expect to switch again soon).

Before you choose the “cheapest” result, confirm these

Payment method: is the price for Direct Debit or another method?
Meter type: standard, smart, Economy 7/10, or prepayment?
Fuel: electricity-only or dual fuel (and whether dual fuel is actually cheaper).
Exit fees: per fuel or per account; how much and when they apply.
End date: what happens when the fix ends (usually moved to SVT unless you switch).

Costs, exclusions and common pitfalls (UK)

These are the most common reasons a “cheap” fixed deal doesn’t work out as expected. Use this section to sense-check tariffs before you switch.

1) Standing charge shocks

Standing charges vary by region and can be a big part of bills for low-usage homes. Always check the p/day figure and multiply it by 365 in your head to understand the baseline cost.

2) Exit fees (and when they apply)

Many fixes charge an exit fee if you leave early. Fees are often per fuel (gas and electricity). If you might move, prioritise low/zero exit fees.

3) Smart meter or tariff restrictions

Some tariffs require a smart meter (especially time-of-use). If you don’t have one, confirm whether installation is required and what happens if signal or functionality is limited.

4) Prepayment limitations

Prepayment customers may see fewer fixed deals and different pricing. If there is existing debt linked to the meter, switching can be restricted until it’s resolved or transferred.

5) Economy 7/10 & multi-rate meters

If your electricity has day/night rates, the cheapest fixed deal depends on your night-time usage split. A single-rate tariff may look cheap but cost more if you rely on off-peak rates.

6) Dual fuel isn’t always cheaper

Some households do best by splitting gas and electricity across different suppliers. Compare both options rather than assuming dual fuel will be lowest overall.

Reminder: A fixed tariff fixes rates, not your total bill. Cold weather, working from home, or a new appliance can change usage and increase costs even when rates are locked.

FAQs: cheapest fixed energy deals (UK)

Is the cheapest fixed deal always the best choice?

Not always. The cheapest estimate may come with higher exit fees, stricter eligibility (e.g., smart meter required), or a standing charge that doesn’t suit your usage. Consider total cost and terms.

Do fixed energy prices include the Ofgem price cap?

The Ofgem price cap applies to default tariffs (like SVTs) and sets limits on what suppliers can charge for those tariffs. Fixed deals have set rates under their contract terms; they may be above or below the level implied by the cap, depending on market conditions and product pricing.

Can I switch energy supplier if I rent?

In most cases, yes — tenants usually have the right to choose their supplier. Check your tenancy agreement for any process requirements, and make sure you’re responsible for the bills (not bills included in rent).

How long does switching take in the UK?

Switching times can vary by supplier and circumstances (meter type, industry processes, and whether there’s a meter issue). Your energy supply won’t be interrupted; you’ll just move billing to the new supplier once the switch completes.

What if I’m on a prepayment meter?

You can still compare, but you may have fewer fixed options and prices can differ. If you have debt on the meter, switching may be restricted until it’s resolved or transferred under the supplier’s rules.

Are exit fees always charged on fixed tariffs?

Not always. Some fixed deals have no exit fees, while others charge per fuel and may vary by remaining term. Always confirm the exit fee amount and the conditions (e.g., whether fees are waived near the end of the fix).

Will a fixed deal lower my bills immediately?

It can, but it depends on your current rates and usage. A fix locks in rates; your bill amount still depends on how much energy you use and your standing charges.

What details should I check on the tariff before switching?

Check: unit rates (p/kWh), standing charges (p/day), term length, exit fees, payment method pricing, meter requirements (smart/prepayment/Economy 7), and what happens when the tariff ends.

Trust, methodology and sources

Page accountability

Written by: EnergyPlus Editorial Team
Reviewed by: Energy Specialist
Last updated: March 2026

How we assess “cheapest fixed energy deal”

When we refer to the “cheapest fixed deal” on this page, we mean the tariff that produces the lowest estimated annual cost for a given set of household inputs — not the lowest unit rate in isolation.

Inputs we consider

Postcode/region
Meter type (standard/smart/prepayment, multi-rate)
Payment method
Fuel type (electric-only/dual fuel)
Annual usage (kWh) where available

What “estimated cost” includes

Unit rate × assumed kWh usage
Standing charge × 365 days
Tariff structure (single vs multi-rate where applicable)

Limitations: Results can differ from your actual bills due to weather, occupancy, appliance changes, meter reads/estimates, and tariff availability changes. Always confirm rates and terms in the supplier’s tariff information before agreeing to switch.

Sources (UK)

Ready to check your cheapest fixed deal?

Get a quote based on your postcode and energy setup, with key terms clearly shown so you can choose confidently.

Get your fixed-deal quote Re-read the key takeaways

Note: The secondary button returns you to the quick summary above. If you want a step-by-step comparison approach, use the “How to compare fixed deals” section.

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Updated on 30 Mar 2026