What is a no standing charge energy tariff?

A no standing charge tariff removes the daily fixed fee (the standing charge). Instead, more of the cost is typically built into the unit rate you pay per kWh. These tariffs can suit low-usage homes, second properties, or households that are often away. Compare total annual cost (unit rate × usage) before switching.

Are no standing charge tariffs cheaper in the UK?

They can be cheaper if your energy use is low, because you avoid paying a daily fee. For average or high usage, a higher unit rate can make them more expensive overall. The best way to know is to compare quotes using your typical annual kWh (or last 12 months’ bills).

Who benefits most from a no standing charge electricity or gas tariff?

No standing charge tariffs are often best for low-consumption households, people in smaller homes, those with efficient heating and appliances, or anyone who uses very little gas/electricity for parts of the year. If your usage is higher, a standard tariff with a standing charge may work out cheaper.

Do no standing charge tariffs have higher unit rates?

Usually, yes. Suppliers commonly increase the unit rate to cover network and fixed costs that would otherwise be collected via the standing charge. Always compare the full price: unit rate plus any other fees, and estimate your annual bill for your usage level.

Can I get no standing charge tariffs for both gas and electricity?

Some suppliers offer no standing charge options for electricity, gas, or both, but availability varies by region and meter type. When comparing, check whether the tariff applies to one fuel or dual fuel, and confirm rates for your postcode.

Are no standing charge tariffs available for smart meters, prepayment, or Economy 7?

Eligibility depends on the supplier and tariff. Many are available for standard credit and smart meters, but some may exclude prepayment meters or multi-rate tariffs like Economy 7. If you have a smart meter or Economy 7, compare like-for-like rates and check any tariff restrictions before switching.

Is there a catch with no standing charge energy tariffs?

The main trade-off is a higher unit rate, which can increase bills for medium or high users. Also check for contract length, exit fees, and whether rates are fixed or variable. Review the tariff information label or key facts to understand the full cost.

How do I compare no standing charge tariffs accurately?

Use your annual consumption (kWh) for gas and electricity and compare total estimated yearly cost rather than unit rate alone. If you don’t know your usage, use your last 12 months’ bills or your online account data. You can compare options and switch via https://www.energyplus.co.uk/ to find a tariff that matches your usage and preferences.

How quickly can I switch to a no standing charge tariff?

Switching typically takes a few working days, and your supply won’t be interrupted. If you’re in a fixed contract, check for exit fees or whether you’re within any penalty-free switching window.

Will I still pay any fixed charges if there is no standing charge?

A no standing charge tariff removes the daily standing charge line item, but you may still pay other costs depending on your agreement (for example, VAT is added to energy charges). Always review the tariff details and the unit rates to see how costs are applied.

Best no standing charge energy tariffs in the UK (this week)

A practical guide to when “no standing charge” tariffs can work (and when they can cost more), with UK-specific checks for meters, payment types and eligibility. Compare whole-of-market options in minutes.

Designed for low usage homes, empty properties and some solar/battery setups
Not always cheaper: unit rates are usually higher, so your usage matters
We explain the maths, common exclusions, and how to compare fairly

Get your energy quote How no standing charge tariffs work

Figures on this page are illustrative estimates. Availability and prices vary by region, meter type and payment method. Always check tariff terms before switching.

Fast answer: are no standing charge tariffs “best” this week?

Sometimes, but only for the right household. A no standing charge tariff removes (or heavily reduces) the daily fixed charge, but typically makes up for it with a higher unit rate (p/kWh). That means the “best” option depends mainly on how much gas and electricity you use and whether you’re eligible.

Quick rule of thumb: If your home uses very little energy for long periods (for example a mostly-empty flat, a holiday let between guests, or a home with low day-to-day demand), a no standing charge tariff may reduce costs. If you use typical or high amounts, it often costs more overall.

Key takeaways

Eligibility matters: many no standing charge deals are limited by region, meter type, or payment method.
Compare using your own usage: annual cost = (unit rate × kWh) + (standing charge × days).
Pay attention to exit fees and how prices can change (fixed vs variable).
Smart/prepay differences: some tariffs only apply to smart meters or specific prepayment types.

Before you decide this week

Find your annual kWh (from your bill, app, or online account).
Check your meter type (smart/standard, single-rate/Economy 7).
Confirm your payment method (Direct Debit, cash/cheque, prepayment).
Know your postcode region: electricity distribution areas affect availability and pricing.

If you want a quick, whole-of-market comparison using your details, use the quote form below. It’s the simplest way to see whether a no standing charge tariff is actually cheaper for you.

Compare no standing charge tariffs (and normal tariffs) in one place

Because no standing charge tariffs can look attractive at first glance, we recommend comparing them directly against standard tariffs using your own usage. EnergyPlus compares whole-of-market home energy deals available for your postcode and meter type.

How no standing charge tariffs work (in plain English)

Standing charge: A daily fixed charge that helps cover network costs, metering and supplier operating costs. You pay it even if you use no energy.
Unit rate (p/kWh): What you pay for each unit of electricity or gas you use. No standing charge tariffs often have higher unit rates.
The trade-off: If your usage is low enough, removing the daily charge can outweigh the higher unit rate. If your usage is normal/high, the higher unit rate can outweigh the saving.

Scenario 1: Very low electricity use

Example: a mostly-empty flat using 900 kWh/year electricity only (no gas). Compare:

Standard tariff (illustrative): 25p/kWh + 60p/day
No standing charge (illustrative): 35p/kWh + 0p/day

Estimated annual cost:
Standard: (900×£0.25) + (365×£0.60) = £225 + £219 = £444
No SC: (900×£0.35) + (365×£0.00) = £315 + £0 = £315

In this low-use case, no standing charge could be cheaper. Your break-even point will depend on the exact rates you’re offered.

Scenario 2: Typical dual fuel home

Example: a home using 2,700 kWh/year electricity and 11,500 kWh/year gas. Compare:

Standard (illustrative): Elec 25p/kWh + 60p/day; Gas 6p/kWh + 32p/day
No SC (illustrative): Elec 32p/kWh + 0p/day; Gas 8p/kWh + 0p/day

Estimated annual cost:
Standard: Elec £675 + £219 = £894; Gas £690 + £117 = £807; Total £1,701
No SC: Elec £864; Gas £920; Total £1,784

In a typical-use home, higher unit rates can outweigh the standing charge saving.

These are examples to show the trade-off. Your actual prices depend on your postcode, meter, payment method and what’s available this week.

Get a personalised quote

Tell us a few details and we’ll show tariffs available for your home, including any no standing charge options where eligible.

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We use your postcode to check tariff availability and regional pricing.

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What do you want to compare?

No standing charge availability can differ between fuels and meter types.

By submitting, you’re asking EnergyPlus to contact you about home energy options. We’ll use your details to provide comparisons and support your request.

What you’ll need (takes 2 minutes)

Your postcode
Whether you have gas, electricity, or both
(Optional) Your recent kWh usage or a bill for the most accurate comparison

No standing charge vs standard tariffs: a practical comparison

Use this table to sense-check whether a no standing charge tariff fits your situation. Prices are illustrative because real rates change by region and over time.

What you’re comparing	No standing charge tariff (typical traits)	Standard tariff (typical traits)	What to do
Daily fixed cost	£0/day (or close to £0)	Charged daily (varies by fuel/region)	If you have long periods of near-zero usage, no SC can help.
Unit rate (p/kWh)	Usually higher	Usually lower than no SC	Use your kWh to calculate annual cost (don’t eyeball it).
Best for	Low-use homes, empty properties, some EV/solar patterns (case-by-case)	Most typical households	If your usage is “normal”, start by comparing standard deals too.
Availability	Can be limited by region/meter/payment type	Wider availability	Check your meter type (smart, Economy 7, prepay) early.
Risk points	Higher unit rate can punish higher usage; some deals have specific terms	Standing charge applies even if you use nothing	Look for exit fees, price change rules, and bill credit terms.

Decision checklist: who it suits

You have long periods of minimal usage (e.g., empty home between tenants).
You’re happy to monitor usage (because the unit rate is the main driver).
You’ve confirmed the tariff is available for your postcode and meter type.
You’ve checked exit fees and whether prices are fixed or variable.

Who it usually doesn’t suit

You have typical/high usage (especially gas in winter).
You rely on electric heating or have a larger household.
You’re on (or need) a specific arrangement like Economy 7 and the tariff isn’t compatible.
You’re choosing based on “£0 standing charge” without checking the unit rate.

Tip: If you can’t find a true £0 standing charge option for your home, some suppliers offer reduced standing charge tariffs. They can behave similarly (lower fixed cost, slightly higher unit rate), so still do the same annual-cost maths.

Costs, exclusions and common pitfalls (UK-specific)

No standing charge tariffs can be straightforward, but the details matter. Here are the issues we see most often when people compare deals in the UK.

1) Higher unit rates can wipe out the benefit

A £0/day standing charge looks great, but if the unit rate is several pence higher, typical usage can become more expensive across the year.

2) Tariff availability varies by region

Electricity distribution regions affect pricing and which tariffs you can access. Two households in different postcodes may see very different options.

3) Meter type and setup exclusions

Some deals are restricted to certain meter types (e.g., smart meters) or may not be available for Economy 7 / multi-rate, or certain prepayment meters.

4) Direct Debit vs prepayment differences

Some tariffs are priced differently (or aren’t available) depending on whether you pay by Direct Debit, cash/cheque, or prepayment. Always filter or confirm the payment method you’ll use.

5) Exit fees and contract terms

Fixed tariffs may include exit fees if you leave early. Variable tariffs may change prices. If you’re unsure, compare the total cost but also weigh flexibility.

6) “£0 standing charge” may come with conditions

Check the tariff information: some deals apply a standing charge in certain circumstances, or only for one fuel, or only for a limited period.

Important: Standing charges and unit rates in Great Britain are influenced by regulation and market conditions, and differ by region. If you’re in Northern Ireland, the market and switching processes differ from Great Britain—availability may be limited.

FAQs: no standing charge tariffs (UK)

Are no standing charge tariffs always cheaper?

No. They can be cheaper for very low usage, but the unit rate is usually higher. For many households, a standard tariff can work out cheaper overall when you add up annual kWh costs.

Do suppliers really offer £0 standing charge?

Some do, but availability changes and may be restricted. You may also see reduced standing charge options, which can deliver similar outcomes depending on your usage.

Can I get one with a smart meter? What about a traditional meter?

It depends on the supplier and tariff rules. Some deals are only available to smart-meter customers; others work with standard meters. Economy 7 and other multi-rate meters can be excluded on certain tariffs, so check before switching.

Will it affect my switching time?

Usually no. Most supplier switches in Great Britain are designed to be quicker than the old process, but timelines vary depending on meter type, checks and whether you’re moving from prepayment. Your new supplier should keep you updated.

If I use zero energy, will my bill be zero?

On a true £0 standing charge tariff, your energy usage charges could be £0 if you use nothing. However, you should still check for any other charges or conditions in the tariff information, and remember that prices and terms can change.

Are no standing charge tariffs good for solar panels?

Sometimes, but not automatically. If you import very little electricity because you generate a lot, a lower standing charge can help. But if you still import significant energy (especially evenings/winter), the higher unit rate can outweigh the benefit. It’s best to compare using your import kWh data.

Do no standing charge tariffs exist for gas?

They can do, but they’re often less common than electricity-only options and may be restricted. Gas standing charges are typically lower than electricity, so the maths can differ—always check the combined annual cost if you’re dual fuel.

What if I’m in debt to my current supplier?

Switching can be affected if you owe money, especially above certain thresholds, or if you’re on prepayment. Citizens Advice explains your options and what to expect. If you’re unsure, compare first, then speak to your supplier or get independent advice.

Trust, methodology and sources

Page accountability

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

How we assess “best no standing charge tariffs this week”

We avoid naming a single universal “best” tariff because availability and pricing vary by home. Instead, we help you identify the best option for your situation using clear comparison principles:

Total estimated annual cost: we compare tariffs by calculating unit rate × usage plus standing charge × days (where applicable).
Eligibility filters: postcode region, fuel type, meter type (smart/standard, single-rate/multi-rate), and payment method.
Tariff terms: fixed vs variable, exit fees, and any conditions attached to £0 or reduced standing charges.
Real-world suitability: we highlight who benefits (low usage) and who can be worse off (typical/high usage).

Limitations: This guide uses illustrative examples, not live prices. Your results will depend on your tariff availability this week, your consumption patterns, and supplier terms. Always read the tariff information before committing.

Independent sources we use and recommend

Ofgem (UK energy regulator) – guidance on the retail market and consumer protections.
Citizens Advice energy advice – support if you’re struggling with bills or have switching issues.
GOV.UK – official government guidance, including support schemes where applicable.

Note: EnergyPlus is a home energy comparison service. We aim to be accurate and up to date, but supplier tariffs and rules can change.

Check what no standing charge tariffs you can actually get this week

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Updated on 9 Apr 2026