Best UK prepayment meter energy deals to switch
Compare whole-of-market prepayment meter tariffs in the UK and see whether switching supplier (or moving to Direct Debit) could cut your top-up costs. Get matched in minutes with EnergyPlus.
- Compare prepayment deals from across the market (not just a single supplier)
- Check if you can switch from prepay to credit and access more tariffs
- See estimated costs using your usage, meter type and postcode
- UK-based support and a simple online switch
EnergyPlus is a comparison service. Switching is subject to supplier acceptance, meter compatibility and credit checks where applicable. Prices vary by region and usage.
Compare the best prepayment meter energy deals (UK)
Prepayment meter tariffs can be harder to navigate because availability depends on your meter type, region and whether your supplier will allow a switch. EnergyPlus helps you compare whole-of-market home energy options in one place so you can see what’s realistically available for your household.
We’ll show relevant options for:
- Smart prepayment meters (top up remotely in many cases)
- Traditional key/card meters (PayPoint / Payzone top-ups)
- Electricity-only, gas-only, and dual fuel homes
Important: The “best” prepayment deal is the one with the lowest total estimated cost for your usage (unit rates + standing charge) and the right features (e.g., friendly credit, emergency credit, app top-up). We’ll base results on the information you enter.
Get prepayment deals for your postcode
Fill in the form to compare available prepayment tariffs and switching routes.
No paperwork: Switching typically doesn’t require an engineer visit. Your meter stays in place; you keep topping up as usual unless you choose to change payment method.
Why switch energy when you’re on a prepayment meter?
Potentially lower unit rates
Some suppliers offer more competitive prepay unit rates in certain regions. Comparing is the quickest way to spot if your current tariff is expensive for your usage.
Better top-up options
Smart prepay can allow app/online top-ups, usage tracking, and fewer trips to the shop—helpful for budgeting and avoiding unexpected self-disconnection.
Route to more tariffs
If you’re eligible to move from prepay to credit (e.g., Direct Debit), you may unlock a wider range of deals. We’ll help you understand your options.
Avoid common switching issues
We guide you on debt rules, meter compatibility and what to do if a supplier rejects a prepay switch—so you don’t waste time.
Clearer costs
Prepay costs can feel opaque because you see top-ups, not bills. Comparing with annual/weekly estimates makes it easier to choose confidently.
Support for home energy
Whether you’re renting or own your home, we focus on household energy only—no business tariffs—so the advice fits your situation.
How switching prepayment meter energy works
Switching energy supplier on a prepayment meter is often straightforward, but there are a few extra checks compared with Direct Debit. Here’s what to expect.
- Tell us your postcode and contact details so we can show deals for your region.
- We match you to available prepay tariffs (electricity, gas or dual fuel) based on meter type and supplier criteria.
- Choose your preferred deal and confirm whether you want to stay on prepay or explore a move to credit.
- Switching begins. You’ll receive updates, and your supply continues as normal during the switch.
Tip: Keep your top-up key/card safe during the switch. If you have a smart prepay meter, you may be able to top up via app once the new supplier takes over.
What can affect prepay switching?
Ready to see what’s available? Use the comparison form and we’ll do the matching.
Prepayment meter types (and what they mean for deals)
Traditional key or card prepayment meters
- Top up at PayPoint/Payzone or other outlets
- Tariff options can be more limited than smart prepay
- Switching may involve receiving a new key/card or reconfiguring the meter
If you’re unsure which you have, check the front of the meter for key slot or card reader, or look for the in-home display (often present with smart meters).
Smart prepayment meters
- Often support remote top-ups (app/online/phone) depending on supplier
- Better visibility of usage and spend through an in-home display
- May allow moving between credit and prepay modes without replacing the meter
Not all smart meters operate in “smart mode” after a switch. We’ll flag where smart features may vary by supplier.
Thinking of changing payment method? If you can move from prepayment to Direct Debit, you may access more deals. However, suppliers can assess eligibility and may carry out checks. Ask us about your likely route when you submit the form.
How to get a better prepayment energy deal (practical tips)
Compare using your real usage
If you can, check your in-home display or past statements for kWh usage. The best deal depends on how much energy your home actually uses.
Watch standing charges
A low unit rate can be offset by a high standing charge—especially if you use less energy. Always compare total estimated cost.
Check emergency & friendly credit
Features vary by supplier and meter type. If you’re at risk of running out of credit, these settings can be as important as price.
Avoid unnecessary meter changes
Most switches don’t require changing the meter. Only consider a meter mode change (prepay to credit) if it unlocks better value for you.
Keep your details consistent
Use the same address format and name as your current supplier. Mismatched details can slow down prepay switching.
Know what to do if you have debt
Debt rules can affect switching. If you’re repaying via top-ups, tell us—some switches may still be possible depending on circumstances.
Prepayment meter switching FAQs
Can I switch energy supplier on a prepayment meter?
In many cases, yes. Availability depends on your meter type, supplier policies, and any outstanding balance or debt arrangements. If a supplier can’t take you on prepay, you may still have options such as switching after a meter mode change (where eligible).
What’s the best UK prepayment meter energy deal right now?
There isn’t one single best deal for everyone. Prices vary by region, payment method and your energy use. The best deal for you is typically the lowest total estimated cost (unit rate + standing charge) from a supplier that accepts your prepay meter type.
Will I lose supply during the switch?
No—your gas and electricity supply should continue as normal. You’ll keep topping up (or using credit) in the usual way while the switch completes.
Do I need to change my prepayment meter to switch?
Usually not. Many switches keep the same meter. Sometimes a supplier may need to update the meter configuration or issue a new top-up key/card. Smart meters may keep smart features, but it can vary depending on supplier compatibility.
Can I move from prepayment to Direct Debit?
Possibly. Many suppliers allow a move to credit/Direct Debit if you meet their criteria (which can include account history, checks, or clearing any debts). If eligible, you may access a wider choice of tariffs. We can explain your likely route once you’ve compared.
I rent my home—can I switch prepayment energy?
In most cases tenants can switch supplier. However, you may need permission to change the meter itself. If you’re unsure, compare first—then we’ll help you understand what’s possible without altering the meter.
How long does a prepayment switch take?
Timelines vary by supplier and meter type. Many switches complete within a couple of weeks, but prepay-specific steps (like issuing a new key/card) can affect timing.
If you’re in an emergency situation (for example, you’ve run out of credit), contact your current supplier for emergency/friendly credit support and local help schemes. You can still compare deals once you’re safe and back on supply.
Why households use EnergyPlus
Whole-of-market comparisons
We’re built to compare options across the market, so you can see what’s actually available for prepayment meters in your area.
Clear, UK-focused guidance
We explain how prepay switching works in the UK—meter types, common blockers and what to do next—without the jargon.
Simple journey
Tell us your details once, compare relevant deals, and move forward with the option that fits your budget and home.
“I was on a key meter and didn’t think switching was possible. The comparison showed which suppliers would take me and what I could save.”
“The step-by-step info on smart prepay vs card meters helped me pick a deal that works with app top-ups.”
Compare prepayment energy deals and switch with confidence
Use our whole-of-market comparison to find the best available prepayment meter tariff for your home, based on your postcode and usage.
EnergyPlus.co.uk compares home energy tariffs. Deal availability varies by region, supplier criteria and meter compatibility.
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