Special energy tariffs UK: compare whole-of-market deals

Compare UK special tariffs in minutes

“Special tariffs” are energy deals designed around a specific lifestyle or technology — for example, off-peak rates for Economy 7 homes, EV charging tariffs, or time-of-use rates that reward you for shifting usage. Because eligibility and pricing rules differ by supplier, comparing properly can be difficult.

EnergyPlus helps you compare whole-of-market home energy options and narrow down the tariffs that fit how your household actually uses energy. Submit the form to get a tailored comparison and switching support.

What we’ll match you with

• EV & time-of-use tariffs (where available for your meter and region)
• Off-peak tariffs like Economy 7/10 (if the numbers stack up for your usage)
• Fixed deals and other options that may beat a “special” tariff overall
• Green/renewable-style options (supplier-backed, depending on availability)

Lower costs when you shift usage

If you can run appliances, hot water, or EV charging at specific times, time-based rates can reduce your overall bill.

Tariffs matched to your meter

Economy 7/10 and smart time-of-use tariffs rely on the right metering. We help identify what’s realistic for your setup.

More control, fewer surprises

Clear peak/off-peak windows and unit rates can make it easier to manage how and when your home uses energy.

Better fit for EVs and heat pumps

High electricity households can benefit more from tariffs designed for bigger off-peak demand — subject to eligibility.

Compare against standard deals

A “special” tariff isn’t automatically the cheapest. We compare against relevant fixed and variable options to avoid false savings.

Economy 7 (off-peak electricity)

Two electricity rates: a cheaper off-peak rate (often overnight) and a higher day rate. Typically suits homes with storage heaters, immersion heaters, or significant overnight use.

Watch out: If most of your usage is daytime, Economy 7 can cost more overall.

Economy 10 / other multi-rate tariffs

Multiple off-peak periods across the day (availability varies). These can work for certain heating setups, but eligibility can be more limited.

Good to know: Off-peak windows vary by region and meter configuration.

EV tariffs (overnight/charging-focused)

Designed for electric vehicle charging, with cheaper electricity at set times. Some require a smart meter and may have different day rates.

Best for: households with regular overnight charging and the ability to schedule charging times.

Smart time-of-use tariffs

Unit rates can change by half-hourly periods. These tariffs can reward flexible usage but may be less predictable if you can’t shift demand.

Requirement: usually a functioning smart meter that provides half-hourly readings.

Tracker-style / variable-linked offers

Prices can move more frequently than standard variable tariffs. They may be attractive when wholesale conditions are favourable, but can rise.

Consider: your risk tolerance and whether you prefer fixed certainty.

Green / renewable-style tariffs

Suppliers may offer tariffs marketed as renewable-backed. Structure varies and these are not always “time-based”.

We’ll compare: price, terms, and suitability against other available options.

Meter types that affect special tariffs

• Single-rate meter: one unit rate. Some special tariffs may require an upgrade or smart meter.
• Economy 7/10 meter: built for off-peak pricing. Switching supplier is possible, but tariffs available can vary.
• Smart meter: enables time-of-use and more granular billing (subject to smart functionality and supplier support).

Common eligibility checks

• EV tariffs: may require EV ownership, compatible smart meter, and/or specific charging arrangements.
• Time-of-use: usually requires smart metering with half-hourly data capability.
• Multi-rate tariffs: availability can be restricted by meter configuration and supplier policy.
• Payment method: some deals are priced around direct debit or online account management.

If you’re unsure what meter you have, we can still start with your postcode and contact details and guide you through the next steps.

Focusing on the off-peak rate only

A very low overnight rate can be offset by a high day rate or standing charge. Always compare total expected cost.

Not matching tariff windows to your routine

Off-peak times vary by supplier and meter. If your cheap window doesn’t match your usage, savings disappear.

Choosing a complex tariff without flexibility

If you can’t shift usage, time-of-use tariffs may increase costs. A good fixed deal can sometimes win.

Will my supply be interrupted if I switch?

No. Your gas and electricity supply stays on during the switching process. The change is administrative between suppliers.

Do I need a smart meter for special tariffs?

Not always. Economy 7/10 uses multi-rate meters. Many time-of-use and EV-focused tariffs typically require a smart meter for accurate billing.

Are special tariffs always cheaper?

No. A tariff can look attractive on one rate but cost more overall once standing charge and peak usage are included. That’s why we compare against standard fixed and variable options too.

I work from home — should I avoid time-of-use?

Not necessarily, but you may use more energy during peak windows. We’ll look at your likely daytime usage and whether off-peak savings can still outweigh higher peak rates.

Can I keep my Economy 7 meter?

Often yes, but available tariffs depend on supplier policies and your region. We’ll help identify which suppliers can support your setup.

What information helps you compare more accurately?

Your postcode, whether you have gas and electricity, meter type (if known), and any big electricity loads (EV, heat pump, storage heating). If you don’t have this to hand, start with the form and we’ll guide you.

“Clear options without the jargon”

“I didn’t realise the cheap overnight rate came with a higher day rate. EnergyPlus explained it in plain English and helped me compare properly.”

Homeowner, West Midlands

“Good for EV tariff comparisons”

“I wanted an EV-friendly deal but wasn’t sure about eligibility. The comparison made it obvious what would actually work with my meter.”

EV driver, South East

“Smooth switch”

“The process was straightforward and I knew what to expect at each step. No interruption to supply.”

Tenant, Yorkshire