Find the cheapest energy tariff for your home
Compare whole-of-market UK gas and electricity deals with EnergyPlus and switch to a cheaper tariff in minutes. Check prices, contract terms and exit fees—then apply with confidence.
- Whole-of-market comparison for household energy
- See fixed, variable and tracker options side-by-side
- Compare by total monthly cost, not just unit rates
- Quick form—start with your postcode
For UK domestic customers only. Tariffs and availability vary by region, meter type and usage. Always check your current contract for exit fees.
Get the cheapest tariff available for your address
Energy prices can differ significantly between suppliers and regions, even for the same meter type. To find the cheapest energy tariff for your home, you need to compare the full cost of the deal: unit rates, standing charges, discounts, contract length and any exit fees.
Use the form to request a whole-of-market comparison. If you have your latest bill to hand, you’ll get the most accurate results—but you can still compare using estimated usage.
Tip: If you’re on a standard variable tariff (SVT), it’s often worth checking fixed deals and tracker options. If your fixed term is ending soon, comparing early can help you avoid rolling onto a higher rate.
What you’ll need (optional)
- Postcode and address
- Current supplier and tariff name (if known)
- Electricity meter type (credit, prepay, Economy 7, smart)
- Rough annual usage in kWh (from your bill)
Start your comparison
Fill in the form and we’ll match you with tariffs available in your area.
Already know your tariff end date? Compare now and plan your switch. Many suppliers allow you to lock in a new tariff to start when your current deal ends.
If you’d like to understand costs in more detail, jump to tariff types or how we calculate the cheapest deal.
Why compare with EnergyPlus?
Whole-of-market results
Compare a wide range of UK household suppliers and tariffs, including fixed, variable and tracker options available for your meter and region.
Focus on total cost
We prioritise the estimated annual and monthly cost for your household usage, so you can judge value beyond headline unit rates.
Switch with fewer surprises
See contract length, payment method, exit fees and key tariff features upfront—so the “cheapest” option stays cheap.
Supports prepay & smart meters
Whether you’re on a prepayment meter or smart meter, we’ll help you find tariffs that match your setup and preferences.
UK-based comparison experience
Built around UK billing terms—standing charge, unit rate (p/kWh), Economy 7 and more—so it’s easier to understand your options.
Fast start, detailed results
Begin with your postcode to see what’s available, then refine with usage and meter details for a more accurate cheapest-tariff match.
Looking to reduce bills long-term? The best deal depends on your risk appetite: fixed gives price certainty, while tracker can follow wholesale changes. Explore tariff types below.
How to find the cheapest energy tariff (the practical way)
The “cheapest tariff” isn’t always the one with the lowest unit rate. For most homes, the best value comes from comparing the full pricing structure and matching it to your usage pattern and meter type.
- Start with your postcode: energy networks and regional price caps can affect rates and standing charges.
- Choose your fuel setup: dual fuel can be convenient, but separate suppliers may be cheaper for some households.
- Identify your meter type: standard, smart, Economy 7, or prepayment—this can change which tariffs you can access.
- Use your annual kWh if possible: costs are most accurate when based on your real consumption.
- Compare contract terms: look at length, exit fees, payment method and any introductory discounts.
- Pick the best-fit deal: balance price, flexibility and customer support (especially if your circumstances may change).
What we compare (so you can decide confidently)
Pricing & bill impact
- Unit rates (p/kWh) and standing charges (p/day)
- Estimated annual and monthly cost for your usage
- Payment method differences (Direct Debit vs on receipt)
- Time-of-use rates where applicable (e.g. Economy 7)
Terms & flexibility
- Fixed-term length and what happens at the end
- Exit fees and switching rules
- Tariff features (green options, smart features, trackers)
- Supplier information and availability by region
Important: If you’re currently in a fixed contract, check whether you have an exit fee. In many cases you can switch without a fee in the final weeks of your contract—always confirm with your supplier.
Tariff types explained (and who they suit)
Understanding tariff types helps you choose the cheapest option for how you actually use energy. The table below is a quick guide; your personal cheapest tariff depends on current market prices and your meter setup.
| Tariff type | How it works | Potential upside | Watch-outs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fixed | Unit rate and standing charge are fixed for a set term (e.g. 12–24 months). | Price certainty and easier budgeting. | May include exit fees; you won’t benefit if market prices fall. |
| Standard Variable (SVT) | Price can change; often the default when a fixed tariff ends. | Flexibility—typically no exit fees. | Commonly not the cheapest; rates can rise (subject to the Ofgem price cap where applicable). |
| Tracker | Prices move in line with a published index (often wholesale-related) plus supplier costs. | Can be cheaper when market prices fall. | More volatility; not ideal if you need predictable bills. |
| Economy 7 / time-of-use | Cheaper electricity at night, higher rate in the day. | Good for storage heaters or overnight EV charging. | If you use most energy in the day, it may cost more overall. |
| Prepayment | Pay-as-you-go via key/card or smart prepay. | Control spending and avoid bill surprises. | Some tariffs are limited; always check unit rates and standing charges. |
Not sure what you’re on? Your bill usually shows tariff name, unit rate, standing charge, and whether you’re on a fixed term. If you can’t find it, start the comparison anyway—we’ll still match tariffs by postcode and meter type.
How to make sure the “cheapest” tariff stays cheapest
Check the standing charge
If your usage is low (e.g. small flat, frequent travel), a higher standing charge can make a “cheap” unit rate less competitive. Compare the estimated annual cost, not just p/kWh.
Match the tariff to your usage pattern
Economy 7 or time-of-use can be excellent for storage heating or overnight charging—but costly if most usage is daytime. If in doubt, compare both standard and time-of-use options.
Avoid unnecessary exit fees
If you might move home or expect changes (e.g. renovations, household size), a flexible deal can be better value overall than a slightly cheaper fixed tariff with fees.
Review at the right time
Set a reminder for when your fixed deal ends. Many households overpay simply by staying on an SVT after their contract finishes.
Common mistakes when searching for the cheapest energy tariff
- Comparing by headline unit rate without factoring in standing charge
- Choosing a time-of-use tariff without checking day vs night usage
- Ignoring exit fees when switching mid-contract
- Assuming dual fuel is always cheaper (it isn’t for every household)
- Not updating usage after lifestyle changes (working from home, EV, heat pump)
Need a quick next step? Use the comparison form now and then refine your results once you’ve located your annual kWh figures.
FAQs: cheapest tariff comparisons
How do I know if I’m on the cheapest energy tariff?
Compare your current tariff’s unit rate and standing charge against whole-of-market options available for your postcode, meter and payment method. The most reliable indicator is the estimated annual cost based on your actual kWh usage.
Is switching energy supplier safe?
Yes—your gas and electricity supply won’t be interrupted. Switching changes the company that bills you, not the physical network. Always keep paying your current supplier until the switch is confirmed and your final bill is produced.
Can I switch if I have a smart meter?
In most cases, yes. Smart meters are widely supported across suppliers. Some features may vary by supplier, but you can still compare and switch to find a cheaper tariff.
Can I find a cheaper tariff on a prepayment meter?
Often, yes—though availability can be more limited than credit meters. Use the form to filter by prepayment and see tariffs you can actually access for your area.
What if I don’t know my annual usage?
You can still start with your postcode and basic details. For more accurate results, find your annual electricity and gas usage (kWh) on your bill or online account, then refine your comparison.
Does the Ofgem price cap mean I can’t get a cheaper deal?
No. The price cap affects certain variable tariffs, but suppliers can offer fixed or other products. The cheapest deal for you depends on what’s available for your meter type, payment method and region at the time you compare.
If you’re ready to check current availability, return to Compare & get quotes.
Trusted comparison support
When you’re choosing the cheapest tariff, clarity matters. Here’s what customers value about a straightforward comparison journey.
“The results were easy to understand—unit rates, standing charge and the total monthly estimate. I felt confident choosing the best option.”
Hannah, Manchester
“I didn’t realise my tariff had ended and I was on a variable rate. Comparing by postcode helped me spot a cheaper fix quickly.”
Imran, Birmingham
“I’m on a prepayment meter and assumed there wouldn’t be options. The comparison showed tariffs I could actually switch to.”
Louise, Cardiff
Trust basics: Always confirm tariff details before switching, including any exit fees, eligibility rules and whether rates are regional. Keep a copy of your current tariff information for reference.
Ready to find your cheapest UK home energy tariff?
Start with your postcode and get whole-of-market tariff options that fit your household. Compare total costs, contract terms and payment methods—then choose the deal that works for you.
- Fast comparison for gas, electricity or dual fuel
- Clear view of standing charge and unit rates
- Designed for UK domestic households
Start now
Use the form above, or jump back to the comparison section.
EnergyPlus is a comparison service. Domestic only. Prices change—recheck before you switch.
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