Should I switch to a no standing charge tariff in the UK?
No standing charge tariffs can work well if you use very little energy — but they often come with higher unit rates. Use this guide to work out whether you’d likely pay less, what to check in the T&Cs, and how to compare safely.
- Best for low usage, empty homes, or seasonal properties (in some cases)
- Not always available for every meter type, region or payment method
- We show a simple break-even method and two realistic UK scenarios with numbers
Estimates only. Availability and prices vary by supplier, region, meter type and payment method. Always check the tariff information label before switching.
Fast answer: it depends on your usage
A no standing charge tariff removes the daily fixed charge, but usually makes up for it with a higher unit rate (p/kWh). You’re more likely to benefit if your home uses very little energy (for example: a small flat with low heating demand, a home that’s often empty, or a well-insulated property with careful usage).
Key point: The question isn’t “standing charge vs none” — it’s total annual cost. A tariff with a standing charge can still be cheaper overall if its unit rate is lower.
When it can make sense
- Low annual usage (especially electricity)
- Long periods away from home
- Second homes / occasional occupancy (check supplier rules)
When it usually doesn’t
- High usage households (large families, electric heating)
- Anyone paying off debt via the bill
- Tariffs with much higher p/kWh
What to check first
- Your meter type (smart / prepay / legacy)
- Payment method (Direct Debit can be cheaper)
- Exit fees and eligibility conditions
If you want a quick answer, jump to the break-even check or use the quote form below to compare whole-of-market options (where available) for your postcode.
Compare tariffs (including no standing charge where available)
Tell us a few details and we’ll help you compare based on your postcode and preferences. If a no standing charge tariff is available for your meter and payment method, we’ll include it in your results.
Tip: Have a recent bill handy. The most accurate comparison uses your estimated annual kWh or your last 12 months’ usage.
What happens after you submit?
- We review your details and match tariffs for your region and meter type.
- You can compare estimated annual costs, unit rates and key terms.
- If you choose to switch, your new supplier typically handles the process (your supply won’t be interrupted).
Prefer to do a quick self-check first? Go to break-even in 5 minutes.
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A simple way to decide: the break-even check
You can estimate whether a no standing charge tariff is likely to cost less by comparing:
- Standing charge you’d avoid (p/day × 365)
- vs extra unit rate you’d pay (difference in p/kWh × your annual kWh)
Rule of thumb: If the no standing charge tariff’s unit rate is higher, it only wins if your usage is low enough that the avoided standing charge outweighs the higher p/kWh.
Step-by-step (works for gas or electricity)
- Find your current standing charge (p/day) and unit rate (p/kWh) on your bill or app.
- Find the same figures for the no standing charge tariff (from the tariff information label / quote).
- Calculate: Annual standing charge saved = current standing charge × 365.
- Calculate: Extra unit cost = (no-SC unit rate - current unit rate) × annual usage (kWh).
- If annual standing charge saved is bigger, the no-SC tariff may be cheaper (before other factors like exit fees).
Two realistic scenarios (illustrative UK numbers)
These examples are estimated and designed to show the maths. Actual rates vary by region, supplier, meter type and payment method.
Scenario A: Low-use electricity-only flat
- Usage: 1,200 kWh/year
- Standard tariff: 60p/day standing charge; 27p/kWh
- No-SC tariff: 0p/day standing charge; 38p/kWh
Standing charge saved: 0.60 × 365 = £219.00
Extra unit cost: (0.38 - 0.27) × 1,200 = £132.00
Estimated outcome: No-SC could be ~£87/year cheaper (before any other fees/conditions).
Scenario B: Typical dual-fuel home with higher use
- Electric usage: 3,100 kWh/year
- Gas usage: 12,000 kWh/year
- Standing charges (combined): 60p/day elec + 32p/day gas = 92p/day
- No-SC unit rates are higher by: +10p/kWh elec and +4p/kWh gas (illustrative)
Standing charge saved: 0.92 × 365 = £335.80
Extra unit cost: (0.10 × 3,100) + (0.04 × 12,000) = £790.00
Estimated outcome: No-SC could be ~£454/year more expensive.
Assumptions: single-rate tariffs; prices shown as pounds for readability; excludes discounts, debt repayments, and any exit fees. Your break-even point can be very different.
No standing charge vs standard tariffs: side-by-side
Use this table to compare what changes, what to check, and who each option tends to suit. Always confirm the exact unit rates and terms on your quote.
| What you’re comparing | No standing charge tariff | Standard tariff (with standing charge) | What to check |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daily fixed cost | Usually 0p/day | Typically charged per day | Any minimum charges, membership fees, or conditions |
| Unit rate (p/kWh) | Often higher | Often lower | Compare against your expected annual usage (kWh) |
| Best for | Low usage / long periods away | Most average to high usage homes | Seasonal occupancy rules; smart meter requirements |
| Bill stability | More variable (cost depends heavily on usage) | Standing charge adds fixed daily cost | Budgeting preference; Direct Debit smoothing |
| Eligibility | May be limited by meter type / payment method / region | Generally widely available | Prepayment meter compatibility; Economy 7 / time-of-use |
Decision checklist (quick)
- 1) Do you know your annual kWh?
- If not, use your last 12 months’ bills or ask your supplier. Without this, it’s easy to choose the wrong option.
- 2) Is the unit rate difference small enough?
- Even a few pence per kWh can outweigh a year’s standing charge if you use lots of energy.
- 3) Any fees or conditions?
- Check for exit fees, minimum monthly payments, or “memberships” that reintroduce fixed costs.
Who it tends to suit
- Singles/couples in smaller homes with modest consumption
- People who are away a lot (work travel, caring responsibilities elsewhere)
- Homes where heating isn’t electricity-heavy (e.g., gas heating and modest electric use) — tariff availability permitting
Reminder: If you have electric heating, heat pumps, or charge an EV at home, you’re rarely “low usage” for electricity — compare carefully.
Costs, exclusions and common pitfalls (UK-specific)
No standing charge doesn’t always mean “no fixed costs”, and not every household can access these tariffs. Here are the most common gotchas to check before you switch.
1) Higher unit rates can overwhelm the saving
The unit rate is where most of your cost sits if you use a normal amount of energy. Always compare estimated annual cost using your own kWh, not just the headline “no standing charge”.
2) Availability varies by meter type and payment method
Some tariffs are only offered for certain meters (e.g., smart meters) or only with Direct Debit. If you’re on prepayment, options can be more limited.
3) Watch for “fixed fee” substitutes
Some deals remove the standing charge but add a monthly fee, a minimum payment, or other fixed charges. These can recreate the same cost in a different form.
4) Economy 7 / time-of-use needs extra care
If you have Economy 7 or a time-of-use tariff, you’ll have different day/night unit rates. Compare using your split (how much you use at night vs day), not a single average.
If you’re in debt or repaying arrears
If your current supplier is collecting debt through your Direct Debit or prepayment arrangement, switching may be restricted or may move the debt. Speak to your supplier and get advice before making changes.
Exit fees and contract terms
Fixed tariffs can include exit fees. If you’re switching because you’ve seen “no standing charge”, check whether leaving your current deal triggers a fee that outweighs any short-term saving.
Regional price differences
Standing charges and unit rates vary across Great Britain by electricity distribution region (and gas network). A deal that’s good in one area may not be as competitive in another.
FAQs: no standing charge tariffs in the UK
What is a standing charge?
A standing charge is a daily fixed cost that helps cover things like maintaining the energy network, metering and billing. You pay it regardless of how much energy you use (even if usage is zero).
Are no standing charge tariffs always cheaper?
No. They can be cheaper for low-usage households, but they often have higher unit rates. The only reliable way to decide is to compare estimated annual cost using your own kWh.
Can I get a no standing charge tariff with a smart meter?
Sometimes. Availability depends on the supplier, your region and your payment method. Some suppliers require a smart meter for certain tariff types; others don’t. Always check eligibility on the tariff information label.
Do no standing charge tariffs exist for gas as well as electricity?
They can, but they’re more commonly seen on electricity-only deals. Dual fuel no-standing-charge options may be limited, and the gas unit rate may be higher. Compare both fuels together if you use gas.
What if I’m on a prepayment meter?
Prepayment tariffs can be different, and options may be more restricted. If you’re considering switching from or to prepayment (especially if you have debt), check with your supplier and consider independent advice before switching.
Will switching interrupt my energy supply?
Typically no. In Great Britain, switching supplier is an administrative change and your energy supply remains on. Timelines can vary, and issues can occur if details don’t match (for example, wrong meter details).
Could I end up paying more in winter?
Possibly. With no standing charge, more of your bill is tied to usage. If your unit rate is higher, higher winter consumption can make the tariff less competitive. Consider your seasonal usage pattern.
How do I find my annual usage (kWh)?
Check your last 12 months’ bills, your online account, or your in-home display (smart meters). If you’ve recently moved in, you may need to estimate based on property size, heating type, and occupancy — then adjust after a few months.
Trust, how we assess this, and sources
How we assess whether no standing charge tariffs are worth it
This guide is built around a straightforward, consumer-first comparison: total estimated annual cost using the two components most home energy tariffs use:
- Standing charge (p/day × days)
- Unit rate (p/kWh × kWh used)
We also include practical checks that can change real-world outcomes: meter type (including Economy 7/time-of-use), region, payment method, exit fees, and any additional fixed fees that can effectively replace a standing charge.
Limitations (important)
- Prices change and are region-dependent; your quote may differ from any example figures.
- Economy 7 and smart time-of-use tariffs require a different approach (day/night split matters).
- Debt, prepayment arrangements, and certain contract terms can restrict switching.
- This page is guidance, not financial advice; always read tariff terms before agreeing.
Helpful UK sources
- Ofgem (UK energy regulator) — guidance on energy bills, standing charges and consumer protections.
- Citizens Advice: energy — switching help, billing issues, and what to do if you’re struggling to pay.
- GOV.UK — official government information and support schemes (where applicable).
EnergyPlus aims to keep this guide accurate and up to date. If you spot an issue or want a supplier-specific clarification, use the quote form above and we’ll help you check what’s available for your postcode.
Ready to check if no standing charge could work for you?
Compare estimated annual costs for your postcode and usage. We’ll highlight key terms like unit rates, eligibility, and any exit fees.
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