Best energy tariffs for new customers UK (January 2026)
Compare whole-of-market home gas and electricity deals in minutes. Tell us a few details and we’ll match you with tariffs available to new customers in January 2026—based on your usage and postcode.
- Whole-of-market comparison for UK homes (not business)
- Check fixed, variable and tracker tariffs from UK suppliers
- See options by estimated yearly cost, unit rates and standing charges
- Switch with confidence: clear eligibility and exit-fee checks
No obligation. We’ll use your details to show available tariffs for your home. Prices and availability can change—always check your confirmation and supplier T&Cs.
Compare the best January 2026 energy tariffs for new customers
Energy tariffs change quickly—especially when suppliers adjust prices around the Energy Price Cap or when limited-time new-customer rates are released. EnergyPlus compares home energy deals from across the market so you can see what’s available for your postcode in January 2026 and decide whether to switch.
To show accurate costs, we’ll ask for your current supplier and whether you pay by direct debit. If you have it, your annual usage (kWh) improves accuracy—but you can still compare without a bill.
What you’ll see in your results
- Estimated annual cost (based on your inputs)
- Unit rates (p/kWh) and standing charges (p/day)
- Fixed/variable/tracker type and term length
- Exit fees (if any) and key eligibility notes
Why "new customer" energy tariffs can be cheaper in January
Introductory pricing
Some suppliers offer promotional unit rates or lower standing charges for people who switch. These are typically limited to eligible new customers and can change quickly.
Price-cap and wholesale updates
January is a common time to reassess because market conditions and Ofgem updates influence supplier pricing. The “best” tariff depends on your region and usage—not just headlines.
Better fit for your household
Households use energy differently. A tariff with a slightly higher unit rate but lower standing charge can suit low users, while high users may benefit from the opposite.
Important: Not every supplier labels a deal as “new customer”. Some deals are open to everyone, while others exclude existing customers, prepayment meters, or certain regions. Our comparison will highlight availability for your details.
How to find the best energy tariff for your home (January 2026)
- Start with your postcode and fuel type. Unit rates and standing charges vary by region, so postcode is essential for accurate results.
- Compare by estimated annual cost (not just monthly direct debit). Monthly payments can be smoothed across the year; annual cost is a clearer comparison point.
- Check the tariff structure. Fixed deals offer price certainty; variable can move up or down; tracker tariffs follow a published index or formula.
- Look for standing charge vs unit rate trade-offs. Low usage households often benefit from a lower standing charge, while high usage homes can benefit from a lower unit rate.
- Confirm fees and conditions. Check exit fees, contract length, and whether the tariff is available to new customers only.
- Switch at the right time. If you’re on a standard variable tariff (SVT) or a fix ending soon, you may have more options. If you’re mid-contract, weigh any exit fee against potential savings.
What you need to compare
- Postcode
- Whether you want gas & electricity (dual fuel) or single fuel
- Payment method (direct debit / prepay / credit)
- Optional but helpful: annual usage (kWh) from your bill
- Optional: current tariff end date (if you’re on a fixed deal)
Common January switching mistakes
- Choosing a tariff by headline rate without checking standing charge
- Ignoring exit fees on your current fix
- Comparing without your region (postcode) and getting unrealistic estimates
- Not checking whether a tariff excludes existing customers
- Forgetting to submit a meter reading around the switch date
Tariff types explained: fixed vs variable vs tracker (UK homes)
The best tariff for new customers in January 2026 depends on the kind of certainty you want and how comfortable you are with price changes. Use this table as a quick guide before you compare.
| Tariff type | How it works | Pros | Watch-outs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fixed | Unit rates and standing charges are fixed for a set term (e.g. 12–24 months). | Budgeting certainty; protection if prices rise during your term. | May include exit fees; if market prices drop, you could be paying more than new deals. |
| Variable (SVT) | Prices can change; for many households this is their default “standard variable” tariff. | Usually no exit fees; flexibility to switch at any time. | Less certainty; prices can rise with little notice (within rules and supplier terms). |
| Tracker | Rates move according to a stated formula or published index. | Can fall when markets fall; transparent pricing rules. | Rates can also rise; check cap limits, update frequency, and exit fees. |
Direct Debit vs prepayment: will it change my options?
Yes. Some new customer tariffs are only available for monthly Direct Debit. Prepayment customers may see fewer deals, but it’s still worth comparing—especially if you can move to a credit meter or smart prepay setup (subject to supplier checks).
Regional pricing in the UK: why your postcode matters
Energy is priced by region because distribution network charges vary. That means the “best energy tariff for new customers” in January 2026 may differ between, for example, Greater London, the North West, Wales, or Scotland—even from the same supplier.
What changes by region
- Electricity standing charge and unit rate
- Gas standing charge and unit rate
- Which tariffs are available for your area
- Estimated annual cost for the same usage
How to compare fairly
- Use the same usage assumptions across tariffs
- Compare by annual cost and then review rates
- Check tariff term and exit fees before switching
- Ensure your meter type matches the tariff (credit/prepay/smart)
If you’re moving home: you’ll usually start on a deemed/standard tariff at your new address. Comparing in January 2026 can help you avoid staying on a higher-priced default longer than necessary.
New customer tariff eligibility checklist
Suppliers set their own rules for “new customer” pricing. Before you switch, it helps to understand the most common eligibility checks.
You’re not currently with that supplier
Some deals exclude existing customers or anyone who has held an account with the supplier in a recent period.
Meter and payment compatibility
Certain tariffs require monthly Direct Debit or a smart meter. Prepayment availability varies, so compare with your actual setup.
Location and property type
Not all tariffs cover every UK region. Some options can be limited for complex metering arrangements.
When can I switch without paying an exit fee?
If you’re on a fixed tariff, you may have an exit fee. Many suppliers allow a switch window near the end of a fix without fees. Always check your current contract and the supplier’s terms before switching.
FAQs: January 2026 energy tariffs for new customers
Are fixed energy deals worth it in January 2026?
It depends on your priorities. Fixed tariffs offer price certainty for a set term, which can help with budgeting. However, if market prices fall, new customer deals later in 2026 could be cheaper. Compare both fixed and flexible options using your postcode and usage for a like-for-like view.
Will switching affect my supply or cause downtime?
No. Switching supplier doesn’t change the physical gas/electricity supply to your home. Your energy continues as normal; the difference is who bills you. You may be asked to provide a meter reading around the switch date.
Can I get new customer tariffs if I’m on a prepayment meter?
Sometimes. Availability depends on the supplier and the specific tariff. Enter “prepayment” in the form so we only show deals that match your meter and payment type where possible.
Do I need my bill to compare?
No. You can compare with basic details. If you can add your annual usage in kWh, your quote is more accurate. If you don’t know it, you can still compare and refine later.
How quickly do energy prices change?
Suppliers can update tariffs at different times. Availability and rates can change daily, and some tariffs are limited to certain regions or customer types. For the most accurate results, run a fresh comparison when you’re ready to switch.
Is EnergyPlus a supplier?
No. EnergyPlus.co.uk is a UK comparison service. We help you compare home energy tariffs across the market and submit your switch request with your chosen supplier.
Want to start now? Jump back to the comparison form and we’ll show tariffs available for your postcode in January 2026.
What UK households say about comparing with EnergyPlus
“Clear prices and no confusion about standing charges. The results made it easy to pick a tariff that suited our usage.”
“We were moving house and wanted to avoid staying on a standard tariff. Comparison took minutes and we switched quickly.”
“Helpful for checking fixed vs variable options. I appreciated seeing the contract length and exit fees up front.”
Trust checks we recommend before switching
- Read the tariff’s key terms (rates, standing charge, contract length)
- Confirm any exit fees and eligibility requirements
- Keep a note of your opening/closing meter readings
Ready to see the best new customer tariffs for January 2026?
Compare whole-of-market home energy deals for your postcode. Review rates, standing charges and key conditions—then switch with confidence.
Comparison is for UK domestic customers. Tariffs shown depend on availability, eligibility and your details.
Quick checklist before you switch
- Know your payment method (Direct Debit / prepay / credit)
- Check if you’re in a fixed term with exit fees
- Have a recent meter reading handy (if possible)
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