What are smaller independent energy suppliers?

Smaller independent energy suppliers are licensed gas and electricity companies that operate separately from the large, well-known brands. They typically focus on competitive pricing, better customer service, innovative tariffs, and greener energy options, and often serve specific regions or niche customer groups in the UK.

Are smaller independent energy suppliers safe and reliable?

Yes. All UK energy suppliers, including smaller independents, must be licensed and regulated by Ofgem. This means they must follow strict rules on billing, customer service, and how they handle your money and energy supply. If an independent supplier fails, Ofgem’s Safety Net moves customers to another licensed supplier so your gas and electricity keep flowing.

Can I save money by switching to a smaller independent supplier?

You can often save money by switching to a smaller independent supplier because they usually have leaner cost structures and compete strongly on price. The exact savings depend on your usage, location, and current tariff. Use our comparison on this page to see personalised quotes and the potential annual saving before you switch.

Is it difficult to switch to a smaller independent supplier?

Switching is straightforward. Once you choose a smaller independent supplier using our comparison, you complete a short online application. Your new supplier then manages the whole switching process, including contacting your old provider. There is no interruption to your gas or electricity supply and no engineer visit in most cases. You simply receive your final bill from your old supplier and start being billed by your new one.

Will my energy supply be interrupted if I switch?

No. Your physical gas and electricity supply will continue as normal when you switch. Only the company that bills you and manages your account changes. The pipes and cables are maintained by regional network operators, not by the supplier you pay, so there is no loss of power during the switch.

Do smaller independent suppliers offer green or renewable energy tariffs?

Many smaller independent suppliers specialise in renewable or low-carbon tariffs. These may include 100% renewable electricity, carbon-offset gas, or support for new UK renewable generation. When you compare deals on this page, you can filter or highlight tariffs with a higher percentage of renewable energy to match your environmental preferences.

What happens if my smaller independent supplier goes out of business?

If your smaller independent supplier stops trading, Ofgem’s Supplier of Last Resort process will automatically move you to another licensed supplier. Your energy supply will not be cut off, and any credit balance you have is usually protected. After the transfer, you are free to compare tariffs again and switch to another deal if you wish.

Are there exit fees when switching from or to a smaller independent supplier?

Some fixed-term tariffs from smaller independent suppliers may include exit fees if you leave before the end of the contract, while others are fee-free. Our comparison clearly shows any exit fees and contract end dates so you can choose a tariff that fits how flexible you want to be. If you are on a standard variable tariff, you can usually switch without paying an exit fee.

What information do I need to switch to a smaller independent energy supplier?

To switch, you normally need your postcode, the name of your current supplier and tariff, and an idea of your annual usage or recent bill amounts. Having a bill to hand helps us provide the most accurate comparison and savings estimate. You do not need to contact your current supplier first – your new independent supplier will handle the changeover for you.

Compare Smaller Independent Energy Suppliers in the UK

Q: How do I compare smaller independent energy suppliers in the UK?

To compare smaller independent energy suppliers, enter your postcode and a few details about your current tariff and usage on this page. We then show you a list of independent providers, including estimated annual cost, unit rates, standing charges, renewable content, tariff length, and exit fees so you can quickly see which option offers the best value and service for your home.

Find cheaper, fairer home gas and electricity tariffs from trusted smaller independent energy suppliers across the United Kingdom.

Why look at smaller independent energy suppliers?

Many UK households still assume that the best home energy deals only come from the biggest brands. In reality, a growing number of smaller independent energy suppliers offer competitive prices, award-winning customer service and flexible, greener tariffs that can beat the larger providers.

On this page you can learn how to compare smaller independent energy suppliers in the UK, understand the benefits and risks, and see how to switch safely and quickly to a better deal for your home.

Benefits of choosing a smaller independent supplier

Competitive pricing: independents often run leaner operations, passing savings on through lower unit rates and standing charges.
More personal customer service: smaller call centre teams and UK-based support can mean shorter wait times and more consistent help.
Innovative tariffs: time-of-use tariffs, smart-meter only plans, electric-vehicle bundles and other modern options are often pioneered by smaller providers.
Greener energy choices: many independents focus on renewable electricity, carbon-offset gas and transparent environmental reporting.
Transparent billing: simpler bills, online portals and app-based account management help you stay in control of your energy spend.

Are smaller independent suppliers safe and reliable?

All domestic energy suppliers in the UK, whether large or small, must be licensed and regulated by Ofgem. This means they must follow strict rules for billing, customer service and complaints handling. If a small supplier were to stop trading, Ofgem’s Supplier of Last Resort process ensures your supply continues and your credit balance is protected by moving you to another supplier.

When you compare smaller independent energy suppliers through our service, you only see approved, active suppliers that meet Ofgem requirements and pass our own checks on pricing and customer feedback.

What you need before comparing independent energy suppliers

To get accurate results when comparing tariffs, it helps to have the following details to hand. Don’t worry if you don’t have everything – we can still provide indicative savings based on typical usage in your area.

Your postcode – prices vary by region, so this is essential.
Your current energy supplier and tariff name (shown on your latest bill).
Whether you use electricity only, or dual fuel (gas and electricity).
Your typical annual usage in kWh, or your monthly/annual spend.
Whether you pay by Direct Debit, on receipt of bill, or prepayment meter.
If you already have a smart meter.

How to compare smaller independent energy suppliers

Switching to a smaller independent supplier in the UK is straightforward. Use our comparison to:

Tell us about your home – where you live, the type of property and how you currently pay for your energy.
Provide your usage or spend – either from a recent bill or using typical usage for a home of your size.
See tailored tariffs – we show you independent suppliers that can supply your home, ranked by estimated annual cost.
Filter and compare – use filters for green energy, fixed or variable tariffs, and customer rating to find the right fit.
Switch online – complete a quick, secure form and your new supplier will handle the rest, including contacting your old supplier.

There is normally no interruption to your gas or electricity supply during the process. You’ll stay connected throughout the switch.

Fixed vs variable tariffs with independent suppliers

Most smaller independent energy suppliers offer a mix of fixed and variable home energy tariffs. Understanding the difference will help you choose the right one for your needs:

Fixed-rate tariffs lock in your unit rates and standing charges for a set period (for example 12 or 24 months). Your monthly payments can still change if your usage changes, but the price you pay per kWh is fixed. This can offer protection against future price rises.
Variable-rate tariffs can go up or down over time, usually tracking wholesale energy costs and regulatory price caps. They offer flexibility and no exit fees in many cases, but your bills can change more often.

When you compare smaller independent suppliers with us, each tariff clearly shows whether it is fixed or variable, any exit fees, and the estimated annual cost so you can make an informed decision.

Choosing a greener independent energy supplier

If reducing your home’s environmental impact is a priority, many smaller suppliers can help you do just that. Look out for:

100% renewable electricity tariffs backed by UK wind, solar and hydro generation.
Carbon-offset gas or investments in renewable heat projects.
Clear fuel mix disclosures and sustainability reporting.
Optional green upgrades that cost a little extra each month to support climate-positive projects.

Our comparison highlights independent UK suppliers with strong green credentials, so you can align your energy choice with your values without overspending.

Customer service and reviews for independent suppliers

Price matters, but so does service. Smaller independent suppliers often score highly in customer satisfaction surveys thanks to responsive support and more transparent communication. When you review your options, consider:

Call centre opening hours and whether support is UK-based.
Webchat and app support for quick queries.
Average complaint handling times and resolution rates.
Independent customer review scores from recognised platforms.

We aim to work with suppliers that consistently deliver good customer experiences, combining competitive pricing with reliable support.

Common questions about smaller independent energy suppliers

Will my gas or electricity be different?

No. The physical gas and electricity that reaches your home is the same regardless of which supplier bills you. The local network operator maintains the pipes and wires. Your choice of supplier affects your tariff, billing and customer service, not the quality of the energy itself.

Can a smaller supplier increase my prices mid-contract?

If you choose a fixed-rate tariff, your unit rates and standing charges stay the same for the duration of the contract, unless there is a change in taxes or government-imposed charges. Variable tariffs can change, but suppliers must give you notice and follow Ofgem rules.

What happens if my chosen independent supplier stops trading?

Ofgem’s Supplier of Last Resort process protects domestic customers. Your account would be moved to another licensed supplier, your supply would continue, and any credit balance should be honoured. You would then be free to compare the market again and switch if you wish.

How long does it take to switch?

Most domestic energy switches now complete within around 5 working days, although exact times vary. You have a statutory 14-day cooling-off period in which you can change your mind.

Will there be any installation or engineer visit?

You usually do not need an engineer visit to switch supplier. If you choose to have a smart meter installed, your new supplier will arrange this with you directly at a convenient time.

Tips to make the most of your new independent energy tariff

Submit regular meter readings (or use a smart meter) so your bills reflect actual usage.
Review your payments every few months to avoid building up unnecessary credit or debt.
Track your usage through your supplier’s app or online account to spot patterns and potential savings.
Consider energy-saving improvements at home, such as LED lighting, better insulation and heating controls.

Combining a competitive independent tariff with smart energy habits can significantly reduce your annual gas and electricity costs.

Start your comparison today

It takes just a few minutes to compare smaller independent energy suppliers in the UK. Share a few details about your home and we’ll show you tailored deals from trusted providers so you can choose the right tariff with confidence.

Compare independent suppliers now

Compare Independent Energy Deals

Complete the quick form below to see home gas and electricity tariffs from smaller independent UK suppliers.

Postcode

Energy type

Current supplier

How do you pay?

Approximate annual spend (£)

Property type

First name

Last name

Email address

Contact number

I agree to be contacted about energy deals and understand I can opt out at any time.

By submitting this form you confirm you are the bill payer or have permission to act on their behalf.

Why compare with EnergyPlus?

EnergyPlus works with a carefully selected panel of smaller independent energy suppliers across the UK, focusing on value, transparency and high standards of service. Our tools have been designed to make it quick and easy for households to:

See clear side-by-side comparisons of tariffs from multiple independent suppliers.
Understand total estimated annual costs, not just headline unit rates.
Filter by green energy, tariff type and payment method.
Start a secure online switch in minutes, with support available if you need it.

Whether you are switching from a large incumbent provider or simply reviewing your options at the end of a fixed deal, comparing smaller independent suppliers can help you reduce your bills and choose an energy partner that better matches your priorities.

Start your independent supplier comparison

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Updated on 6 Dec 2025