Cheapest fixed energy tariff for new customers (UK)
Find fixed deals available to you today (based on your postcode, meter and payment method), and see when a fixed tariff is genuinely cheaper than staying on a standard tariff.
- Whole-of-market comparison: see eligible fixed tariffs from multiple suppliers
- UK-specific checks: region, payment method, meter type, exit fees and contract length
- Plain-English guidance: when fixing makes sense (and when it doesn’t)
Figures on this page are examples only. Your cheapest fixed tariff depends on your region, usage, meter type and payment method. Terms and availability change frequently.
Fast answer: the “cheapest fixed tariff” is personal to your home
In the UK, fixed energy tariffs aren’t priced the same for everyone. The cheapest fixed tariff for new customers depends on your region (distribution area), meter type (credit / prepay / smart), payment method (Direct Debit vs cash/cheque), usage (kWh), and supplier eligibility at the time you apply.
What you can do right now: run a whole-of-market comparison using your postcode and (if possible) your annual usage in kWh. That’s the quickest way to see which fixed deals you can actually join today.
Key takeaways
- Fixing is about certainty. A fixed tariff locks the unit rates and standing charges for a set period (subject to the tariff’s terms).
- New customer deals can be sharper than a supplier’s standard variable tariff (SVT), but not always—especially once exit fees are considered.
- Prepay and some smart meter setups can have fewer fixed options. We’ll show you how to check quickly.
- Don’t chase “headline savings”. Compare on estimated annual cost using your kWh, not just unit rates.
When a fixed tariff is often cheapest overall
- You can pay by Direct Debit and pass supplier checks.
- You have a credit meter (or compatible smart meter mode) with good deal availability.
- You want price certainty for 12–24 months and you’re unlikely to move home soon.
- Your comparison shows the fixed deal is lower than your current tariff after exit fees.
Check the cheapest fixed deals available to you
Use the form to get a tailored quote. We’ll use your postcode to match tariffs for your region and show fixed options you’re more likely to be eligible for. You can refine results later with meter type, payment method and usage.
Tip: If you have it, use your annual consumption (kWh) from a recent bill or your online account. It makes comparisons far more accurate than using “low/medium/high” estimates.
How to find the cheapest fixed tariff (new customers)
- Confirm your current tariff and exit fees: check your last bill, app, or online account for your tariff name and any early exit charge.
- Know your meter type: credit meter, prepayment, or smart meter (and whether it’s operating in credit or prepay mode).
- Compare like-for-like: same payment method and the same fuel (dual fuel vs electricity-only) where possible.
- Focus on estimated annual cost: a lower unit rate can be offset by a higher standing charge (or vice versa).
- Check the contract terms: length, exit fees, discounts, and what happens at the end (usually you move to the supplier’s SVT unless you switch again).
Get your quote
Enter your details to see fixed tariffs for your area. We’ll contact you about your quote and next steps.
Compare fixed tariffs: what to look at (beyond the headline price)
When people search for the “cheapest fixed energy tariff for new customers”, they often mean the lowest estimated annual cost for their home. To get there, compare tariffs on the elements below—then sanity-check with your usage pattern.
| What to compare | Why it matters | Quick check |
|---|---|---|
| Estimated annual cost (£/year) | Combines unit rates + standing charges with your usage to show what you’re likely to pay. | Use your annual kWh where possible; check assumptions if using estimates. |
| Unit rate (p/kWh) | Lower unit rates benefit higher-usage homes more. | If your usage is high, unit rate often matters more than standing charge. |
| Standing charge (p/day) | Affects everyone equally, even low-usage homes. | If your usage is low, a high standing charge can wipe out a “cheap” unit rate. |
| Exit fees | If you leave early (including moving supplier), you may pay a fee per fuel. | If you might move home or re-fix soon, prioritise low/no exit fees. |
| Contract length (e.g. 12/18/24 months) | Longer fixes can provide longer certainty but may be less flexible. | Match the term to your plans (renting, moving, renovations, etc.). |
| Payment method & meter eligibility | Some deals are Direct Debit-only; some don’t support certain meter modes. | Check if the tariff is available for your exact setup before you decide. |
Decision checklist: who a fixed tariff suits
- You value predictable pricing for budgeting
- You’re happy to commit for the term (or the exit fee is low)
- You can access the cheapest payment method (often Direct Debit)
- Your comparison shows a lower estimated annual cost than your current tariff
Who it may not suit (or needs extra checks)
- You may move home soon (exit fees could apply)
- You’re on prepayment and have limited fixed options (still worth comparing)
- You plan to change how you use energy (e.g. adding an EV, heat pump, home working)
- You’re on a complex tariff (e.g. multi-rate / Economy 7 / smart time-of-use) and need a like-for-like comparison
Two realistic scenarios (with numbers)
These examples show how exit fees and standing charges can change what “cheapest” means. They’re illustrative only and not a promise of savings.
Scenario A: renter, likely to move within 12 months
- Assumptions
- Electricity-only, credit meter, Direct Debit. Annual usage: 2,400 kWh. Comparing a 12‑month fix vs current SVT. Exit fee on the fix: £75.
- Example prices
-
Fixed tariff: 26.0p/kWh, standing charge 55p/day
SVT: 27.5p/kWh, standing charge 52p/day - Estimated annual cost (before any exit fee)
- Fixed: (2,400×£0.26) + (365×£0.55) = £825 (approx)
SVT: (2,400×£0.275) + (365×£0.52) = £850 (approx) - If you leave after 8 months
- The fixed deal might look cheaper annually, but adding a £75 exit fee could remove most (or all) of the benefit. In this scenario, prioritise a fix with low/no exit fees or consider shorter terms.
Scenario B: family home, higher dual-fuel usage
- Assumptions
- Dual fuel, credit meters, Direct Debit. Annual usage: 3,200 kWh electricity and 12,000 kWh gas. Comparing a 24‑month fix vs SVT. Exit fees: £50 per fuel.
- Example prices
-
Fixed tariff: Elec 24.8p/kWh + 52p/day; Gas 6.2p/kWh + 29p/day
SVT: Elec 26.8p/kWh + 56p/day; Gas 6.7p/kWh + 31p/day - Estimated annual cost
- Fixed: Elec ~£992 + Gas ~£850 = £1,842 (approx)
SVT: Elec ~£1,062 + Gas ~£904 = £1,966 (approx)
Why it can be worth fixing: with higher usage, unit-rate differences can add up, and you’re less likely to leave early.
Important: “New customer” pricing and eligibility vary. Some suppliers restrict certain tariffs to customers who switch online, pay by Direct Debit, or have a compatible meter setup.
Costs, exclusions and common pitfalls (UK-specific)
A fixed tariff can be great for budgeting, but the “cheapest” option can change once you include fees, eligibility and how suppliers apply charges. Here are the most common gotchas we see.
1) Exit fees can outweigh the saving
If you think you might switch again soon (or move), a tariff with a low annual cost but high exit fees may be more expensive overall.
2) Direct Debit vs prepay/cash pricing
Many fixed deals are priced for Direct Debit. If you pay on receipt of bill or use prepayment, you may see fewer fixed options and different rates.
3) Meter type restrictions
Some fixed tariffs don’t support Economy 7 (two-rate), certain smart meter modes, or prepayment meters. Always confirm compatibility before switching.
4) Standing charge trade-offs
A lower unit rate isn’t always “cheaper” if the standing charge is higher—especially for low-usage flats or second homes.
5) Discounts and “add-ons”
Some tariffs include conditional discounts (e.g. online-only management). Make sure you’re comparing the price you’ll actually pay.
6) End-of-fix “default” tariff
When a fix ends, you’ll usually move to the supplier’s standard variable tariff unless you choose another fix or switch again. Set a reminder 4–6 weeks before the end date.
Moving home? You can often take a tariff with you, but it depends on whether the supplier serves the new address and whether the same tariff is available there. Ask the supplier before you commit if a move is likely.
FAQs: cheapest fixed energy tariffs for new customers (UK)
Is the cheapest fixed tariff the same in every region?
No. Standing charges and unit rates vary by region due to network costs and other factors. That’s why a postcode-based comparison is essential.
Do “new customer” fixed tariffs always beat my current supplier?
Not always. A new customer deal can be cheaper than an SVT, but once you factor in exit fees, payment method, and your standing charge/unit rate mix, the cheapest option may be to stay put—or choose a different fix length.
Can I get a fixed tariff if I have a prepayment meter?
Sometimes, yes—but options can be more limited. Your best next step is to compare using your postcode and specify prepayment (or smart prepay). If you can switch to credit meters, more fixed deals may be available (eligibility varies).
What’s the difference between a fixed tariff and the price cap?
The Ofgem price cap limits the maximum price of standard variable and default tariffs (it’s not a cap on your total bill). A fixed tariff is a contract where your unit rates and standing charges are set for the term—regardless of cap changes (subject to the tariff’s terms).
Will I lose supply if I switch?
No—your gas and electricity still come through the same pipes and wires. Switching changes who bills you and the rates you pay. In most cases, the process is designed to be seamless.
How long does it take to switch to a fixed tariff?
Timeframes can vary by supplier and meter setup. Some switches complete quickly, but allow longer if there are meter, address, or debt-related checks. You’ll get a start date from your new supplier.
Should I choose 12, 18 or 24 months?
Choose based on your need for certainty and flexibility. Shorter fixes can be easier to leave (sometimes with lower fees), while longer fixes can offer longer price stability. Always check exit fees and what happens at the end of the term.
Do I need my MPAN/MPRN to compare?
Not usually. A postcode and basic details often work to start a comparison. Having your MPAN (electricity) and MPRN (gas) can help confirm your supply points, especially if there are address quirks or multiple meters.
Trust, methodology and sources
Page ownership
- Written by
- EnergyPlus Editorial Team
- Reviewed by
- Energy Specialist
- Last updated
- May 2026
How we assess “cheapest fixed tariff”
We focus on what matters to households: tariffs you can join and the estimated annual cost for your home, not just a headline unit rate.
- Eligibility filters: postcode/region, fuel type, meter type, payment method, and supplier availability at the time of comparison.
- Cost basis: unit rates (p/kWh) + standing charges (p/day), combined with your annual usage (kWh). Where you don’t have kWh, estimates may be used, which reduces accuracy.
- Fees and terms: exit fees, contract length, and any key restrictions that could affect real-world cost.
Limitations: Tariffs can change quickly, and not all homes can access all payment methods or meter modes. Always verify the tariff’s T&Cs and your start date/exit fee rules with the supplier.
Sources (UK)
- Ofgem (UK energy regulator) – information on the price cap and consumer protections
- Citizens Advice – energy advice – switching guidance and dealing with billing issues
- GOV.UK – government guidance related to energy and consumer rights
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