What is a standing charge and why does it matter?

A standing charge is a fixed daily amount you pay to your energy supplier to cover network costs and account administration, regardless of how much energy you use. A lower standing charge can reduce your bill, especially if you use less energy. Your total cost still depends on the unit rate (price per kWh) and how much you use.

Are fixed energy tariffs with low standing charges always cheaper?

Not always. Some fixed tariffs reduce the standing charge but increase the unit rate. The best option depends on your usage: low users often benefit more from a low standing charge, while higher users may save more from a lower unit rate. Compare the estimated annual cost, not just one price component.

Who benefits most from a low standing charge fixed tariff?

Low or moderate energy users typically benefit most—such as smaller households, flats, people out at work during the day, or homes with strong insulation. If your usage is high, a tariff with a slightly higher standing charge but cheaper unit rates can work out better overall.

Can I get a low standing charge tariff with a smart meter?

Yes. Many suppliers offer fixed tariffs with low standing charges for smart meter customers, including single-rate and (where available) time-of-use options. Availability and pricing vary by region and meter type, so it’s best to check offers for your postcode.

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

Yes, offers may be available for electricity-only, gas-only, or dual fuel. However, standing charges are set separately for gas and electricity, so a tariff might be competitive for one fuel but not the other.

Will I pay exit fees on a fixed tariff?

Some fixed tariffs include exit fees if you leave before the end date, while others are fee-free. If you want flexibility, look for a fixed deal with no exit fees, or consider whether the savings outweigh the cost of leaving early.

Can I switch to a low standing charge fixed tariff without interruption?

Yes. Switching supplier or tariff is designed to be seamless, with no interruption to your gas or electricity supply. Your current supplier continues to deliver energy until the switch completes.

How do I compare fixed tariff deals with low standing charges on EnergyPlus?

Use your postcode and typical usage to compare fixed tariff deals by estimated annual cost. Pay attention to both unit rates and standing charges, check contract length and any exit fees, and choose the deal that best matches your household’s usage and budget.

What information do I need to get an accurate quote?

For the most accurate comparison, have your postcode, current tariff details (if known), meter type (smart, standard, prepayment), and your annual usage in kWh (from a recent bill). If you don’t have kWh figures, an estimate based on household size can still produce useful results.

Is there a catch with very low standing charge energy tariffs?

The main trade-off is often a higher unit rate, which can increase costs for higher-usage households. Also check for contract terms such as exit fees, how long the fixed price lasts, and whether prices vary by region. Always compare total estimated cost for your usage pattern.

Fixed energy tariff deals with low standing charge (UK)

Compare whole-of-market fixed energy deals that prioritise a lower standing charge — and see whether a cheaper daily charge actually reduces your yearly bill for your postcode and usage.

Whole-of-market comparison for UK homes (gas, electricity or dual fuel)
Check fixed tariffs with lower standing charges vs lower unit rates
Personalised results based on your postcode and estimated usage
Switch support, clear pricing and no jargon

Compare low standing charge fixes How standing charges work

Standing charges and unit rates vary by region and meter type. We’ll show the total estimated annual cost (not just the daily charge) so you can choose with confidence.

Find fixed tariff deals with a lower standing charge — matched to your home

If you use less energy (for example, a small flat, a second home, or you’re out during the day), the standing charge can have an outsized impact on your bill. A fixed tariff with a lower daily charge can help — but only if the unit rate isn’t higher enough to cancel it out.

EnergyPlus compares whole-of-market fixed energy tariffs and shows the estimated annual cost so you can judge the trade-off between:

Standing charge (p/day) — what you pay regardless of usage
Unit rate (p/kWh) — what you pay for each unit of energy
Contract length — commonly 12 or 24 months

Good to know

Standing charges vary by region, meter type (credit / prepayment / smart) and fuel. We’ll tailor results to your postcode so you’re not comparing the wrong prices.

Start your comparison

Get fixed deals with low standing charges for your area. It takes about 60 seconds.

Tip: Low standing charge tariffs can be especially useful if your annual usage is below average — but we’ll always show the full estimated yearly cost so you can compare fairly.

Why a lower standing charge can matter (and when it doesn’t)

You pay it every day

Even if you use very little energy, the standing charge still applies. Lowering it can reduce the “baseline” cost of having gas/electricity connected.

Best for low usage homes

If you’re below average consumption, a cheaper unit rate may matter less than reducing the daily charge. We compare both, based on your inputs.

But unit rates can offset it

Some “low standing charge” tariffs have higher unit prices. That can increase your bill if you use more energy — we show estimated annual totals to avoid surprises.

Fixing can add certainty

A fixed tariff typically locks your unit rate and standing charge for the contract term, helping you plan monthly payments.

Regional pricing varies

The standing charge differs across Great Britain due to network costs. That’s why postcode-based comparisons are essential.

Works with smart meters too

You can compare fixed deals whether you have a smart meter, traditional credit meter, or prepayment (availability varies by supplier).

How standing charges work on UK energy bills

A standing charge is a fixed daily amount (shown in pence per day) that covers things like maintaining the energy network, metering, and administration. It’s separate from the unit rate you pay per kWh.

Bill basics: what you actually pay

Charge type	How it’s calculated	Why it matters
Standing charge	Daily rate × number of days	Affects everyone, especially low users
Unit rate	p/kWh × energy used	Bigger driver for medium/high users
Other factors	VAT (usually 5%), discounts/credits	Impacts the final amount you pay

A quick example (why “low standing charge” isn’t always cheaper)

If tariff A lowers the standing charge by 10p/day, that’s roughly £36.50/year less (10p × 365).

But if tariff A’s unit rate is 2p/kWh higher and you use 2,500 kWh/year of electricity, that’s about £50/year more (2p × 2,500). In this case, the “low standing charge” tariff could cost more overall.

That’s why EnergyPlus focuses on estimated annual cost and lets you sort and compare on the numbers that matter — not just a headline daily charge.

How to choose a fixed energy tariff with a low standing charge

Start with your postcode. Standing charges vary by region, so postcode matching is essential for accurate comparisons.
Estimate your usage (if you can). If you have a recent bill, check your kWh. Low usage households often benefit more from a lower standing charge; higher usage homes may prioritise a lower unit rate.
Compare on total annual cost. Don’t pick a tariff just because the standing charge looks lower — compare the full yearly figure.
Check contract length and exit fees. Fixed deals may include exit fees. If you expect to move home or switch again soon, that can matter.
Look for service fit. Consider payment method (Direct Debit, on receipt of bill), smart meter compatibility, and customer service reputation.

Not sure what you’re on now?

That’s fine. You can still compare. We’ll help you identify your current supplier and see fixed deals with low standing charges available for your home and meter type.

Common mistakes when searching for low standing charge tariffs

Comparing headlines, not totals

A lower standing charge can be paired with a higher unit rate. Always compare the estimated annual cost for your usage level.

Ignoring meter and payment type

Credit meters, smart meters and prepayment meters can have different pricing and availability. Choose deals that match your setup.

Overlooking exit fees

A fixed tariff can offer stability, but check exit fees if you might change circumstances (moving home, changing occupancy, etc.).

Using the wrong region prices

Standing charges vary across Great Britain. Postcode-based comparison ensures you’re seeing the right daily charge for your area.

Eligibility and practical considerations

Home energy only

This page is for domestic properties in the UK. If you rent, you can usually switch if you pay the bills (check your tenancy if unsure).

Debt and prepayment

If you have energy debt or a prepayment meter, options can be more limited. We’ll still show what’s available for your meter type.

Moving home

If you may move during a fixed term, look closely at exit fees and supplier policies. We recommend comparing the overall cost and flexibility together.

FAQs: fixed tariffs and low standing charges

What is a standing charge on electricity and gas?

A standing charge is a fixed daily amount you pay to keep your supply active, separate from your per-unit (kWh) usage. You’ll typically see one standing charge for electricity and one for gas on a dual fuel tariff.

Are low standing charge tariffs always the cheapest?

Not always. Some tariffs reduce the standing charge but raise the unit rate. The best choice depends on your annual usage. Comparing the estimated annual total for your postcode is the most reliable approach.

Can I get a fixed tariff with a low standing charge on a smart meter?

Often yes, but availability varies by supplier and meter configuration. When you compare, we’ll show the fixed deals available for your meter type and region.

Do fixed tariffs include exit fees?

Many fixed tariffs have exit fees, though not all. If you’re choosing a fixed deal mainly for a lower standing charge, it’s still worth checking fees and the term length in case you want to switch again sooner.

Does my location affect the standing charge?

Yes. Standing charges can differ by region due to local network costs. That’s why postcode-based comparisons are important — it ensures you’re looking at the correct pricing for your area.

Will switching interrupt my gas or electricity supply?

Switching supplier is designed to be seamless. Your energy continues to flow through the same wires and pipes. We’ll guide you through the process and what to expect next.

What homeowners like about EnergyPlus

“I was specifically looking for a lower standing charge as I’m rarely home. The comparison made it obvious which fixed deal was actually cheapest overall.”

— Hannah, Leeds

“Clear breakdown of standing charge vs unit rate. I switched to a fixed tariff and now my monthly budget is predictable.”

— Mark, Bristol

“Quick form, no hassle. The results were tailored to my postcode which saved time compared with browsing supplier sites.”

— Aisha, Glasgow

Trust and transparency

Whole-of-market comparison focused on total estimated annual cost
Clear tariff details: unit rate, standing charge, term length and fees (where applicable)
Home energy comparisons for UK residents (not business energy)

Ready to compare fixed deals with a low standing charge?

Tell us your postcode and we’ll show fixed tariffs available for your home — with a clear view of standing charge, unit rate and estimated annual cost.

Compare now Read FAQs

Prefer to double-check the details first? Jump to how standing charges work.

What you’ll need

Your postcode
An email address for results
(Optional) a recent bill for accurate usage

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Updated on 14 Feb 2026