Cheapest energy supplier in the UK: how to find the best deal for you
The “cheapest” supplier depends on your tariff type, region, meter and how you pay. Use our whole-of-market comparison to see eligible, estimated costs for your home—then switch with confidence.
- See estimated monthly and annual costs based on your postcode, meter and usage
- Compare fixed, variable and tracker tariffs (where available) with clear caveats
- Check exit fees, payment method differences and smart/prepay eligibility before you switch
Estimates vary by region, meter type, usage, payment method and tariff availability. Always check tariff T&Cs (including exit fees) before switching.
Fast answer: there isn’t one single “cheapest energy supplier” for everyone
In the UK, the cheapest energy deal depends on your postcode (regional rates), meter (standard, Economy 7, smart, prepayment), payment method (Direct Debit vs pay on receipt), and how much electricity/gas you use. That’s why the most reliable way to find the cheapest supplier for your home is to compare using your own details rather than relying on a “top 10” list.
Cheapest is usually about total annual cost
We look at the unit rates + standing charges that apply to your region and tariff—then estimate total cost using your usage.
Availability matters (and changes)
Some tariffs are only available to smart meters, Direct Debit customers, or certain regions. Prices can change as suppliers launch/withdraw deals.
Don’t ignore fees and terms
A low headline cost can be offset by exit fees, rules on billing, or higher prices after the fixed term ends.
Quick tip: If you want the cheapest deal that’s realistic for you, gather your latest bill (or in-app statement), note your annual kWh for electricity and gas, and confirm your meter type. That improves the accuracy of any estimate.
Compare the cheapest eligible tariffs for your home
Tell us a few basics and we’ll show estimated costs across a whole-of-market panel, including key details like tariff type, payment method, and any exit fees (where provided).
What you’ll need (2 minutes)
- Postcode
- Whether you use gas + electricity, or electricity only
- Approx usage (optional but recommended)
- Contact details for your quote
What we’ll show
- Estimated monthly & annual cost
- Unit rates and standing charges
- Tariff type (fixed/variable/tracker where available)
- Exit fees and end date (if applicable)
Good to know: If you’re on a prepayment meter, options can be more limited. We’ll still show what’s available and highlight eligibility where possible.
Get your personalised quote
What “cheapest supplier” usually means in practice (and what to compare)
A supplier can only be “cheapest” when you specify the context: tariff type, how long you’ll stay, how you pay, and how much you use. The table below shows the main levers that change your real-world cost.
| What you’re comparing | Why it changes the cost | What to check before switching | Who it often suits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standing charge | You pay this daily even if you use little or no energy. It can dominate costs for low-usage homes. | Your region’s standing charge for both fuels (if dual fuel). Any differences between payment methods. | Everyone—especially low users (e.g. small flats). |
| Unit rate (p/kWh) | Higher usage magnifies unit-rate differences. Small p/kWh changes can matter a lot over a year. | Whether rates are single-rate or multi-rate (Economy 7). Any tracker formula or caps. | Medium/high-usage households. |
| Tariff type | Fixed tariffs lock in rates for a term; variable can change; tracker can move frequently with a published mechanism. | Term length, what happens at the end, notice periods, and whether there’s an exit fee. | Fix: people wanting stability. Variable/tracker: people comfortable with price movement. |
| Payment method | Many tariffs price differently for Direct Debit vs pay-on-receipt/prepay. Some “online-only” deals require Direct Debit. | Whether you can pay monthly by Direct Debit; if not, compare the correct version of the tariff. | Direct Debit customers usually see the widest choice. |
| Meter type | Economy 7, smart, and prepayment meters can have different rates and fewer tariff options. | Whether your meter is compatible, and if a meter exchange is needed (and how it’s arranged). | E7: homes using more energy overnight. Smart: those eligible for smart-only deals. |
Decision checklist: is the “cheapest” tariff actually right for you?
- Is it eligible for your meter and payment method?
- Is the standing charge low enough for your usage pattern?
- Are there exit fees, and might you move home or switch again soon?
- How will prices change (end-of-fix rates, variable changes, tracker formula)?
- Billing and support: do you prefer online-only or phone support?
Who the cheapest deal often suits (and who it doesn’t)
- Often suits
- People paying by Direct Debit, staying put for the full term, and comfortable managing online accounts.
- Often doesn’t suit
- Anyone likely to move soon, those who need flexible payment options, or households where a high standing charge would outweigh a low unit rate.
Important: Energy prices can be volatile and tariff availability changes. Treat any comparison as a snapshot, then confirm full tariff details during sign-up.
Costs, exclusions and common pitfalls (UK-specific)
When people search for the cheapest energy supplier, the surprise costs are usually in the detail. Here are the most common gotchas—and how to avoid them.
1) Exit fees on fixed tariffs
A deal can look cheapest, but an exit fee could wipe out the benefit if you switch again before the end date (or move and can’t take it with you).
Check: exit fee amount per fuel, and when it applies.
2) Standing charges dominate low-usage homes
If you live alone, are out a lot, or have an efficient home, the standing charge can matter more than the unit rate.
Check: daily standing charge for your region and payment method.
3) Economy 7 (two rates) needs the right usage pattern
Economy 7 can be cheaper if you use a meaningful share of electricity overnight. If most of your usage is daytime, it may cost more.
Check: your day/night split and the day-rate premium.
4) Prepayment and smart-only tariff eligibility
Some tariffs require Direct Debit or a smart meter. Prepayment customers may have fewer offers and different pricing structures.
Check: meter requirements, and whether a meter exchange is needed.
Two realistic cost scenarios (illustrative)
These examples show how “cheapest” can flip depending on standing charges vs unit rates. Figures are illustrative and not a quote.
- Assumptions: single-rate electricity, monthly Direct Debit, no discounts, and prices stay constant for the period.
Scenario A: low-use flat (electricity-only)
Usage: 1,800 kWh/year.
| Option | Standing (p/day) | Unit (p/kWh) | Estimated annual cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deal 1 (low standing) | 45p | 30p | ~£706 |
| Deal 2 (low unit rate) | 65p | 27p | ~£699 |
How we got these: annual = (standing charge × 365) + (unit rate × usage). Example only; regional rates vary.
Scenario B: family home (dual fuel)
Usage: 3,100 kWh electricity/year and 12,000 kWh gas/year.
| Option | Elec (p/kWh) | Gas (p/kWh) | Standing per day (elec+gas) | Estimated annual cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deal A | 28p | 7.0p | 90p | ~£1,802 |
| Deal B | 30p | 6.5p | 80p | ~£1,798 |
Example only. Dual-fuel “savings” aren’t guaranteed; it’s the total cost that matters.
If you’re in Scotland, Wales or a different electricity region: rates can differ noticeably. Always compare with your own postcode so you’re not using the wrong regional pricing.
Cheapest energy supplier UK: FAQs
1) Why can’t you name one cheapest supplier?
Because energy pricing is regional and tariff-specific. Two households on the same “supplier” can pay different amounts depending on meter type, payment method, tariff availability and usage. The cheapest result is personalised.
2) Is the cheapest tariff usually fixed, variable or tracker?
It varies. Fixed tariffs can be competitive when suppliers price aggressively for certainty. Variable tariffs can be cheaper at times but can change. Tracker tariffs may be cheaper or more expensive depending on the market and the tracker formula. Compare total estimated cost and check how prices can change.
3) Can I switch if I’m renting?
Usually yes, if you pay the energy bills and your name is on the account. You generally don’t need landlord permission to change supplier, but you should leave the meter and property in a reasonable state and follow any tenancy requirements about informing the landlord/agent.
4) Will switching affect my supply or require an engineer visit?
Switching supplier normally doesn’t interrupt your energy supply. An engineer visit is uncommon unless a meter exchange is needed (for example, moving from an older meter to a smart meter) and you agree a separate appointment.
5) How do standing charges work?
Standing charges are daily fees covering things like network costs and metering. You pay them regardless of how much energy you use, which is why a tariff with a slightly higher unit rate but lower standing charge can be cheaper for low-usage households.
6) Are online-only deals safe?
They can be, but “safe” is about whether the service model works for you. Online-only tariffs may offer lower costs, but support could be primarily digital. If you prefer phone support or paper bills, confirm those options (and any charges) before switching.
7) What if I have a prepayment meter?
You can still switch, but tariffs and payment options may be more limited. Compare using your current meter type so you only see eligible options. If you want to move from prepay to credit (or Direct Debit), check with the supplier about eligibility and any process/credit checks.
8) Do I need my MPAN/MPRN to compare?
Not usually. A postcode and basic details are enough to start a comparison. For an accurate switch and to avoid delays, your supplier may later confirm your meter information (including MPAN for electricity and MPRN for gas).
9) Is it better to switch now or wait?
There’s no universal answer. If you find a tariff that’s cheaper than your current deal and suits your needs (including term length and fees), switching can make sense. If you’re on a fixed tariff with a big exit fee, it may be worth waiting until the penalty-free window (if applicable) or until the economics stack up.
If you’re struggling to pay: the cheapest tariff may not be the immediate priority. You may be able to get help through your supplier, local support, or national guidance. See Citizens Advice resources below.
How we assess “cheapest” (methodology, limitations and sources)
Our approach (plain English)
- Cheapest = lowest estimated total cost over a year (or the tariff term if shorter), using your details where available.
- We prioritise eligibility: your region, payment method, and meter type can restrict which tariffs can be shown.
- We surface key terms that affect value: standing charge, unit rate, exit fees, and what happens at the end of the deal.
Assumptions we may use
- If you don’t enter exact usage, we may use typical consumption estimates as a starting point.
- Estimated costs assume the tariff rates remain as stated; variable and tracker tariffs can change.
- We don’t assume you will qualify for special discounts unless clearly specified in the tariff details.
Limitations (what to keep in mind)
- Tariffs can be withdrawn or amended quickly; results are a snapshot in time.
- Your final prices can differ due to meter reads, exact start date, and supplier checks.
- Some offers depend on specific meter setups (e.g. Economy 7 timings) or smart meter capability.
Editorial transparency
- Written by
- EnergyPlus Editorial Team
- Reviewed by
- Energy Specialist
- Last updated
- February 2026
Sources and further guidance
- Ofgem (the energy regulator) — regulation, consumer standards and market information.
- Citizens Advice: energy — help with bills, switching, and dealing with problems.
- GOV.UK energy guidance — support schemes and practical advice.
We aim to keep this guide accurate and up to date. If you spot something that looks wrong or outdated, please use our contact page and include the URL and the section you’re referring to.
Ready to see your cheapest eligible energy deals?
Compare tariffs using your postcode and preferences. We’ll highlight key terms like exit fees and payment-method requirements so you can decide confidently.
Estimates are based on the information you provide and current tariff details. Availability and final pricing can vary.
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