Cheapest prepayment meter tariffs UK this week
Compare whole-of-market prepayment (PAYG) energy deals available for your home this week. Tell us your postcode and meter type to see eligible tariffs, estimated weekly costs and switching options.
- Whole-of-market comparison for UK homes (not business)
- See what’s available for your meter: key, card or smart PAYG
- Clear prices: unit rates, standing charges and estimated weekly spend
- Switch help even if you’re on a prepayment meter
Prices can change quickly. We show tariffs available this week based on your location, meter type and eligibility. EnergyPlus is a comparison service (whole-of-market), not an energy supplier.
Compare the cheapest prepayment meter tariffs available for your home
Prepayment (PAYG) tariffs can vary by region, meter type (key/card/smart PAYG), and whether you want electric-only, gas-only or dual fuel. The quickest way to find the cheapest option this week is to compare what’s actually available at your address.
Use the form to request your comparison. We’ll use your postcode to match your local distribution region and show eligible prepayment meter tariffs with:
- Unit rates (pence per kWh)
- Standing charges (pence per day)
- Estimated weekly/monthly costs based on typical use
- Whether the tariff supports your prepayment setup (key, card or smart top-up)
What “cheapest this week” means
Energy prices and tariff availability can change. This page focuses on finding the lowest-cost eligible PAYG tariffs available right now for your region and meter type, rather than a static national list.
If you’re on PAYG and worried about debt or switching
You can often still switch supplier on a prepayment meter, but rules can depend on factors such as any outstanding energy debt and the supplier’s policies. If you’re not sure, submit the form and we’ll help you check your options.
Prefer to learn first? Jump to how prepayment tariffs work and the rates to check.
Get your PAYG tariff comparison
Fill in the details below and we’ll send your options. It takes about 60 seconds.
Have a smart prepayment meter?
Smart PAYG often allows app, online or card top-ups and can unlock more tariff options than traditional key/card meters. We’ll match you to the right tariff type based on your details.
Why compare prepayment meter tariffs with EnergyPlus?
Whole-of-market view
We compare across the market to help you find eligible PAYG tariffs in your area, rather than showing a small subset.
Designed for PAYG realities
We focus on the details that matter for prepayment customers: meter type, top-up method, standing charge and practical switching steps.
Clear costs, not just headlines
We highlight the combination of unit rate and daily standing charge so you can judge what’s cheapest for your usage.
UK region-aware
Tariffs can vary by distribution region. Your postcode helps match you to the right pricing area.
Support if you’re in a sticky spot
If debt, tenancy, or meter changes are affecting your options, we’ll explain what’s possible and what to do next.
No jargon, just action
Understand what you’ll pay, how to switch, and how to keep topping up without disruption.
How prepayment (PAYG) energy tariffs work in the UK
With a prepayment meter, you pay for energy before you use it by topping up. Your costs are still usually made up of two parts:
1) Unit rate (p/kWh)
This is what you pay for each kilowatt hour of gas or electricity you use. A lower unit rate tends to matter most if your usage is higher.
2) Standing charge (p/day)
A daily fixed cost to cover network, metering and billing. A lower standing charge can make a big difference for low-use households.
Key meter, card meter, or smart prepayment: does it change the tariff?
Yes, it can. Some tariffs are only available on certain meter types or may require a smart prepayment meter to manage top-ups digitally. When you compare with EnergyPlus, we focus on tariffs that are compatible with:
- Traditional prepayment (key or card top-up at shops)
- Smart prepayment (top-up online, by app, or with a top-up card)
- Dual fuel PAYG (both gas and electricity on prepayment)
Tip: check your top-up method before switching
If you currently top up with a key/card, confirm whether your new supplier will keep that method or move you to smart PAYG. We’ll flag this when reviewing options with you.
Typical switching journey for PAYG
- Compare eligible tariffs using your postcode and meter setup.
- Choose a tariff that fits your budget (unit rate + standing charge).
- Confirm meter details (key/card/smart PAYG) and your address information.
- Switch completes and you’ll be guided on top-ups so you’re not left without credit.
The rates to check when hunting the cheapest PAYG tariff
“Cheapest” isn’t always the lowest unit rate. For prepayment meter customers, the best value often depends on your home’s usage pattern and the standing charge. Use this quick checklist.
Quick comparison checklist
| What to look at | Why it matters on prepay | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Electricity unit rate (p/kWh) | Drives the cost of each top-up over time | Compare like-for-like: same region and meter type |
| Gas unit rate (p/kWh) | Big impact in winter and for gas heating homes | Check against your typical seasonal use |
| Standing charge (p/day) | Paid every day, even if you use little energy | Important for low-use or smaller homes |
| Top-up method | Affects convenience and avoiding emergency credit issues | Confirm key/card vs smart top-up options |
| Any additional charges or rules | Some tariffs have conditions or operational differences | Ask for the full tariff information before switching |
What makes a PAYG tariff “cheap” for low usage?
If you use less energy (for example, a smaller flat or you’re out most days), a lower standing charge can matter as much as the unit rate.
What makes a PAYG tariff “cheap” for high usage?
For higher usage households (electric heating, larger homes, busy households), a lower unit rate tends to have the biggest impact, especially over winter.
Ready to check your own numbers? Use the comparison form and we’ll match your region and meter type.
Eligibility and common PAYG switching questions
Who can compare?
- UK households with a prepayment meter for electricity, gas or both
- Tenants and homeowners (you just need to be responsible for the energy bill)
- People with key/card meters and smart prepayment meters
When switching might be more complex
- If you have outstanding energy debt tied to the meter
- If your meter needs exchanging (e.g. moving to smart PAYG)
- If you’re in the middle of a tenancy change or move
Regional considerations (why your postcode matters)
Energy network costs differ by region, which can affect standing charges and unit rates. Two households on the same supplier can pay different prices if they’re in different distribution areas. That’s why the cheapest prepayment meter tariffs are best identified using your postcode.
Avoid these PAYG cost traps
Only comparing unit rates
A low unit rate with a high standing charge can be more expensive overall.
Ignoring meter compatibility
Some tariffs work best with smart PAYG. We’ll match compatible options.
Underestimating winter use
If you have gas heating, unit rate differences can add up quickly in colder months.
FAQs: cheapest prepayment meter tariffs (UK)
Can I get a cheaper deal if I’m on a prepayment meter?
Often, yes. Availability depends on your region, the supplier, and your meter type. The best approach is to compare eligible PAYG tariffs for your postcode and confirm you can switch smoothly.
Is prepayment always more expensive than direct debit?
Not always. Costs are driven by unit rates and standing charges, which vary by supplier and region. Some households prefer PAYG for budgeting, while others may find monthly billing cheaper. If you’re open to it, we can also discuss whether moving from PAYG to credit billing is possible for you.
What information do I need to compare PAYG tariffs?
Your postcode is the key starting point. It helps identify your local network region. If you also know whether you have a key, card or smart prepayment meter (and whether you have gas, electricity or both), that can speed things up.
Will switching affect my top-ups?
You should always be guided on what to do during the switch so you can keep your meter in credit. The exact process depends on whether you have traditional key/card PAYG or smart prepayment.
How often should I check for the cheapest prepayment tariff?
If you’re trying to cut costs, it’s worth checking whenever tariffs change or you’re approaching a point where a switch would be worthwhile. Because availability and pricing can move, a “this week” check keeps your options current.
I’m struggling to keep credit on the meter — what should I do?
If you’re in immediate difficulty, prioritise safety and warmth. If your supplier offers emergency credit or friendly-hours support, use it. Then compare tariffs and ask about support options. If you submit the form, we’ll help you review whether a cheaper PAYG tariff or a meter change could reduce costs.
Trusted help for UK households on prepayment meters
“I didn’t realise standing charges were making my top-ups disappear. The comparison made it clear what to look for.”
— Hannah, Manchester
“We’re on smart prepay and wanted the cheapest option in our area. The advice was practical and easy to follow.”
— Adam, Cardiff
“Quick form, quick response. Helpful for understanding what tariffs were actually available for my key meter.”
— Priya, Birmingham
What you get from your comparison
- A list of eligible prepayment meter tariffs for your postcode
- Clear breakdown of unit rates and standing charges
- Support understanding PAYG top-ups and switching steps
Check the cheapest PAYG tariffs for your postcode today
Tell us where you live and we’ll show the prepayment meter tariffs available this week — with clear costs and switching guidance.
Comparison for home energy only. Tariff availability depends on region, meter type and supplier criteria.
Need the essentials?
- Postcode
- Whether you have gas, electricity or both
- Key/card vs smart prepayment (if known)
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