What is a zero standing charge energy tariff?

A zero standing charge tariff is an electricity and/or gas tariff where the daily fixed standing charge is £0. Your costs are mainly (or entirely) based on the unit rate (pence per kWh) you use. These tariffs can suit low-usage homes, empty properties, or second homes, but may cost more if the unit rate is higher.

Are zero standing charge tariffs always the cheapest in the UK?

Not always. Suppliers often offset a £0 standing charge with a higher unit rate. The cheapest option depends on your annual usage, property type, and whether you need gas, electricity, or both. Comparing the total estimated annual cost is the most reliable way to choose.

Who benefits most from a zero standing charge tariff?

These tariffs are typically best for customers with very low consumption (for example, single occupants who are rarely home, vacant properties, or holiday homes). If you use average or high amounts of energy, a standard tariff with a standing charge can be cheaper overall.

Is there a downside to switching to a zero standing charge tariff?

Potential downsides include higher unit rates, fewer tariff options, and less predictable savings if your usage increases. Before switching, check the unit rate, any exit fees, payment method rules (e.g., direct debit vs prepayment), and whether the tariff is fixed or variable.

Do zero standing charge tariffs exist for both gas and electricity?

Some suppliers offer zero standing charge options for electricity only, while others may offer both fuels. Availability can vary by region and meter type, so it’s important to check what’s available for your postcode and whether you have a smart meter, credit meter, or prepayment meter.

How do I compare zero standing charge tariffs accurately?

Compare tariffs using your estimated annual kWh for electricity and gas, then calculate the total cost: (unit rate × usage) + (standing charge × days). For a £0 standing charge tariff, the second part is zero—so the unit rate becomes the key factor. You can review and compare options at https://www.energyplus.co.uk/Suppliers/cheapest-zero-standing-charge-energy-tariffs-uk.

Can I switch to a zero standing charge tariff if I have a prepayment meter?

Sometimes, but it depends on the supplier, tariff terms, and your meter type. Some tariffs are only available to direct debit customers or require a compatible meter. Always confirm eligibility and any additional charges before switching.

Will a zero standing charge tariff affect my credit or billing?

The tariff structure doesn’t usually affect your credit score. Billing depends on how you pay (direct debit, receipt of bill, or prepayment) and how accurate your meter readings are. Submitting regular readings (or using a smart meter) helps ensure you pay the right amount.

Are zero standing charge tariffs regulated by Ofgem?

Yes. UK domestic energy suppliers and tariffs operate under Ofgem regulation and consumer protection rules. However, pricing and availability vary by supplier and region, and the energy price cap does not mean every tariff is identical. Always check the full tariff details.

What should I check before choosing the cheapest zero standing charge tariff?

Check the unit rate (electricity and/or gas), tariff type (fixed or variable), contract length, exit fees, payment method requirements, meter compatibility, and your expected annual usage. For the best value, choose the option with the lowest estimated annual cost—not just the lowest standing charge.

Cheapest zero standing charge energy tariffs in the UK

Compare whole-of-market home energy options to see whether a zero standing charge tariff could cut your bills — especially if you use less gas and electricity or are away from home often. Get personalised results in minutes.

Whole-of-market comparison for UK households (not business)
See unit rate vs standing charge trade-offs clearly
Switch support for electricity-only, gas-only or dual fuel
Works for credit meters, smart meters and many prepayment situations

Check zero standing charge deals How these tariffs work

Tariff availability varies by region, meter type and supplier rules. We’ll show the best-priced eligible options for your home based on your details.

Compare the cheapest zero standing charge tariffs for your home

A zero standing charge energy tariff removes (or reduces to £0) the daily fixed fee you usually pay for being connected to the network. In practice, these tariffs often have a higher unit rate (p/kWh) to compensate. That’s why the “cheapest” option depends on your annual usage, your postcode region, and your meter type.

EnergyPlus helps you compare whole-of-market home energy deals and highlight options with no standing charge (or the lowest standing charges available) so you can make a decision based on the total expected cost.

Tip: If you use very little energy (for example, a small flat, a holiday home, or you’re away frequently), a zero standing charge tariff can be cost-effective. If your usage is higher, a standard tariff with a standing charge may work out cheaper overall.

Get personalised quotes

Tell us a few details and we’ll show eligible home energy options, including zero standing charge tariffs where available.

Important: “Zero standing charge” offers can be limited and may not be available in all regions or for all meter types. We’ll still show the lowest total cost options available to you.

Why households look for zero standing charge tariffs

Potential savings for low usage

If your consumption is low, removing the daily standing charge can reduce your baseline cost — the bit you pay even when you use no energy.

Clearer “pay for what you use” feel

Some households prefer tariffs where costs are more directly linked to consumption rather than a fixed daily fee.

Useful for second homes

If a property is empty for long periods, standing charges can add up. A £0 standing charge can be attractive if you keep energy use minimal.

Good prompt to review your tariff

Even if you don’t switch to zero standing charge, comparing highlights cheaper fixed or variable options in your region.

Regional standing charge differences

Standing charges vary across UK regions. In some areas, the value of a £0 standing charge can be higher than you expect.

Can support budgeting

With no daily fixed fee, low-use households may see less “bill creep” on months where usage is naturally lower.

What is a zero standing charge tariff?

Most UK energy tariffs include:

Unit rate (pence per kWh): what you pay for each unit of gas/electricity you use.
Standing charge (pence per day): a fixed daily cost covering things like network costs and metering.

A zero standing charge tariff sets the standing charge at £0 per day (or very close to zero). In return, the unit rate is often higher. The key is to compare total annual cost for your home, not just the standing charge.

Quick cost comparison (example)

Tariff type	Standing charge	Unit rate	Best for
Zero standing charge	£0/day	Often higher	Low usage, empty periods
Low unit rate + standing charge	Higher/day	Often lower	Medium–high usage
Standard variable	Set by supplier	Changes over time	Flexibility, no exit fees

This table is illustrative only. Prices and availability differ by region and payment method.

Is a zero standing charge tariff right for you?

Often suits

Low annual energy usage households
Small flats or well-insulated homes using less heating
Second homes/holiday lets (when energy use is minimal)
People away from home for long periods
Homes trying to minimise fixed daily charges

May not suit

Medium–high usage households (higher unit rates can outweigh savings)
Homes with electric heating using lots of kWh
Anyone focused on the lowest possible unit rate
If the tariff has restrictions that don’t fit your meter/payment method
If a “£0 standing charge” is paired with an expensive unit rate or other fees

Practical rule: the best way to decide is to compare your expected annual cost under each tariff. EnergyPlus does this by using your postcode and (where possible) your usage.

Zero standing charge: trade-offs to check before switching

Higher unit rates

The most common catch: you pay more per kWh. If you use more energy than expected, a £0 standing charge can quickly become more expensive overall.

Tariff availability is limited

Some suppliers only offer these in certain regions or for certain meter types. You may see “low standing charge” rather than true zero.

Watch for fees & terms

Check exit fees on fixed deals, payment method requirements, and any additional charges (for example, paper billing).

Common mistakes (and how to avoid them)

Comparing only the standing charge: always compare the estimated annual cost and unit rate too.
Using the wrong consumption: if your usage changes seasonally, consider last 12 months rather than a rough guess.
Forgetting meter type: economy tariffs, smart meters and prepayment setups can affect what’s available.
Not checking both fuels: you may find zero standing charge for electricity but not gas (or vice versa).

If you’re unsure: use the form above to compare. We’ll show you the cheapest eligible options based on total cost — not just headline standing charge.

How to find the cheapest zero standing charge tariff in the UK

Start with your postcode: standing charges and unit rates vary by region and network area.
Use your actual consumption if you can: a zero standing charge tariff is very sensitive to how many kWh you use.
Choose the right setup: electricity-only, gas-only or dual fuel — and check your meter type (smart/credit/prepayment).
Compare total cost, not headlines: look at estimated annual cost and what you’ll pay in a higher-usage month.
Check key terms: fixed vs variable, exit fees, payment method, and any add-ons.

Break-even insight (why usage matters)

If a standard tariff charges a standing charge each day, that’s a fixed cost over a year. A zero standing charge tariff can beat it only if the extra cost from the higher unit rate is less than what you would have paid in standing charges.

What to have to hand

Your postcode
Electricity and gas usage (kWh) or a recent bill
Your payment method (direct debit, pay on receipt, prepayment)
Meter details (smart/standard; economy meter if relevant)

FAQs: cheapest zero standing charge energy tariffs

Are zero standing charge tariffs really cheaper?

Sometimes — mainly for low-use households. Many £0 standing charge tariffs have higher unit rates, so the cheapest option depends on your usage and region.

Do all suppliers offer zero standing charge?

No. Availability can be limited and can change. Some suppliers offer “low standing charge” rather than true zero, or only for certain payment methods.

Can I get zero standing charge for both gas and electricity?

It depends on what’s available at your postcode and your setup. Some deals may apply to electricity only. Comparing is the quickest way to see what you’re eligible for.

Do smart meters affect eligibility?

They can. Some tariffs are designed around certain meter capabilities, but many standard tariffs work with smart and non-smart meters. Your meter type can affect what you’ll see.

Will switching interrupt my supply?

No — switching supplier doesn’t stop your gas or electricity supply. The change is administrative; your energy continues as normal.

What if I’m on a prepayment meter?

Some tariffs may be restricted. Share your details in the form and we’ll show what’s available for your home, including any options with low or zero standing charge.

Trusted comparison to help you choose with confidence

“The quote results made the trade-off clear — higher unit rate vs standing charge. It helped me choose based on what I actually use.”

UK homeowner, electricity-only

“I didn’t realise standing charges vary by region. Using my postcode gave me a more realistic comparison.”

UK homeowner, dual fuel

“Quick form, straightforward options. I could see low standing charge alternatives when zero wasn’t available.”

UK homeowner, smart meter

What we focus on: showing the best-value eligible options for your home, clearly presenting standing charges, unit rates and key tariff terms.

Ready to check the cheapest zero standing charge deals for your postcode?

Compare whole-of-market home energy tariffs and see eligible options with £0 standing charge (or the lowest standing charges available), with costs shown clearly.

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Updated on 14 Feb 2026