Cheapest fixed energy tariffs for UK homes this winter
The cheapest 12-month fixed deals on our live panel are typically priced below the £1,663 cap, several with no exit fees — run your postcode through the comparison on this page for today's exact prices.
- The cheapest 12-month fixed deals on our live panel are typically priced below the £1,663 cap, several with no exit fees — run your postcode through the comparison on this page for today's exact prices.
- See fixed-rate options that match your postcode and usage
- Understand unit rates, standing charges, exit fees and contract length
- Switch in one journey with support from EnergyPlus
Prices change frequently. Results depend on your meter type, region, usage and payment method. Switching won’t affect your supply—your energy stays on.
Find the cheapest fixed tariff for your home (whole of market)
“Cheapest” depends on your postcode, meter type (including smart and prepayment), and how much energy you use. A fixed tariff can help you budget over winter by keeping your unit rate and standing charge steady for the contract term (subject to the supplier’s terms).
Use the form to see tailored fixed-rate quotes. We’ll show you the key details—like contract length and exit fees—so you can choose with confidence.
What you’ll need
- Your postcode
- Approximate annual usage in kWh (or a recent bill)
- Current supplier and tariff name (if you know it)
Get fixed deals in minutes
Tip for winter: if your current fix ends soon, compare early—good fixed deals can disappear quickly when wholesale prices move.
Important: EnergyPlus is a comparison service. We don’t set prices. We help you compare available home tariffs from across the market and highlight the information that matters: total annual cost estimate, unit rates, standing charges, contract length, and any exit fees.
Cheapest fixed energy tariffs to lock in before winter (June 2026)
Source figures are indicative typical-use dual-fuel direct-debit estimates as at 20 June 2026 and will vary by region, usage and meter type. Always confirm the live price, contract length and exit fees in your personalised quote before switching.
How long to fix for?
A 12-month fix (E.ON Next, Octopus, EDF, British Gas) covers the full winter ahead and keeps you flexible for next spring. An 18-month fix (So Energy, Outfox) or OVO’s 2-year deal locks your rates through two winters if you value longer certainty over the lowest possible headline price.
Watch the exit fees
Why a fixed tariff can be the cheapest choice for winter
With the cap having risen +13% to £1,663/yr, every fix in our table above leaves you better off than sitting on the capped variable rate. Winter bills are driven by higher usage, so the best value tariff is usually the one with the lowest overall yearly cost for your household—not just a low headline unit rate. A fixed tariff is a smart option when you want protection from price rises, clearer budgeting, or predictable payments.
Budget certainty
Your unit rates and standing charges are set for the fixed term, making it easier to forecast winter spend.
Protection if prices rise
If market prices increase during cold spells, a fix can keep your rates stable.
Clear comparison
Fixed deals are easier to compare: same term, known charges, and often clearer exit fees.
Dual fuel savings
Some suppliers price dual fuel competitively, especially for direct debit payers.
More tariff choice
The market often offers multiple fixed lengths (e.g. 12, 18, 24 months) depending on supplier appetite.
Switching is straightforward
Switch online and keep the same supply—no engineer visit needed in most cases.
How fixed energy tariffs work (and what “cheapest” really means)
A fixed tariff sets your electricity (p/kWh) and/or gas (p/kWh) unit rate and your standing charge (p/day) for the length of the contract. Your bill still changes with your usage—so the “cheapest” option for winter is the tariff that gives your household the lowest estimated total cost based on your expected kWh.
For context, the capped variable rates are 26.11p/kWh for electricity (57.19p/day standing charge) and 7.33p/kWh for gas (29.04p/day). A good fix should beat these over your expected winter usage—our comparison shows the total, not just the headline rate.
EnergyPlus compares deals using your details so you can see what your winter and annual costs could look like before you switch.
Fixed vs the July price cap
Why two households get different “cheapest” results
Region & network costs
Standing charges and unit rates vary by distribution region. Your postcode matters.
Meter type
Smart, credit and prepayment meters can have different pricing and tariff availability.
Your usage profile
High usage homes benefit more from lower unit rates; low usage homes can be more impacted by standing charges.
Checklist: what to check before choosing a fixed deal
A winter fix can be great value, but only if you compare the right details. Use this checklist to spot the true cheapest option for your home.
1) Compare total cost
Look at the estimated annual (or remaining term) cost, not just unit rate. The cheapest tariff is the best overall match for your usage.
2) Check standing charges
If your usage is lower, a higher standing charge can outweigh a slightly cheaper unit rate.
3) Review exit fees
Some fixes charge a fee if you leave early (E.ON Next and EDF charge £25/fuel; Octopus is £0). Consider this if you think prices might fall or you may move home.
4) Match the contract length
A 12-month fix may suit winter budgeting without locking you in for too long. Longer fixes can work if you want extended certainty.
5) Confirm tariff type
Make sure you’re comparing like-for-like (single rate vs Economy 7, smart tariffs, or prepay specific deals).
6) Know your switch timing
If you’re in a contract, check when it ends. Some suppliers allow switching near the end of term without fees.
Good to know: If you move home, you can usually transfer your tariff or end it—terms vary by supplier. It’s worth checking before you commit to a longer fix.
Costs & savings: how to judge a cheap fixed tariff
When you’re hunting for the cheapest fixed energy tariff for winter, focus on the numbers that drive your actual bill. Use the table below as a practical guide when reviewing quotes.
Winter usage tip
If you’re unsure of your kWh, check a recent bill or your online account. Estimating too low can make a deal look cheaper than it will be once heating is on daily.
Economy 7 / multi-rate meters
If you have Economy 7 (or other multi-rate), the cheapest fixed deal depends on how much of your usage falls into the off-peak window. Make sure your comparison reflects that split.
Regional considerations across the UK
Energy pricing varies by region due to network costs and local distribution. This is why the cheapest fixed tariff in one postcode isn’t always the cheapest in another.
England
Urban vs rural distribution areas can affect standing charges and the best-value mix of unit rate vs standing charge.
Scotland
Some areas have higher network costs. Comparing whole-of-market options helps you see which fixes price best for your region.
Wales
Rates can differ meaningfully by distribution region. Entering your postcode is essential for accurate “cheapest” results.
Northern Ireland: the energy market operates differently and tariff availability can vary. If you’re in NI, enter your details and we’ll show what’s available for your home based on your location.
Common mistakes when looking for the cheapest fixed tariff
Only comparing unit rates
A slightly higher unit rate with a lower standing charge can be cheaper overall—especially for lower usage households.
Ignoring exit fees
If you may move, change meter type, or switch again soon, fees can turn a good deal into a bad one.
Waiting past the 1 July cap rise
The cap jumps +13% to £1,663. Delay and you risk paying the higher capped rate while the cheapest fixes get withdrawn.
Not checking meter compatibility
Some tariffs are specific to smart meters, Economy 7, or prepayment. Match the quote to your setup.
Cut your bills for good with solar
Compare free, no-obligation quotes from vetted local solar & battery installers.
FAQs: fixed energy tariffs for winter
What is the cheapest fixed energy tariff right now?
Should I fix before the July 2026 price cap rise?
Will switching interrupt my gas or electricity supply?
No—your supply stays on. Switching is free and takes around five working days, and you can switch even without a smart meter. You’ll keep using energy as normal while the supplier change completes.
Do these fixes have exit fees?
Do fixed tariffs include the price cap?
No. The Ofgem price cap is a unit-rate cap that applies to default and variable tariffs, not a total-bill cap. Fixed tariffs have their own set rates for the term—which is exactly why a good fix can sit below the capped variable rate over winter.
Can I get a fixed tariff with a prepayment meter?
Often yes, but options can be more limited and pricing can differ from direct debit. Select Prepayment in the form to see relevant fixed deals where available.
What if I don’t know my usage in kWh?
You can still start with your postcode and supplier. For the most accurate “cheapest” result, grab a recent bill or annual statement later and update your comparison.
Looking for more ways to reduce winter bills beyond switching? Visit our Cost Saving Advice hub for practical home energy tips.
What UK households say about EnergyPlus
Real experiences vary, but these are common themes we hear from customers who use EnergyPlus to compare and switch home energy.
“The comparison was clear—standing charges and exit fees were easy to spot. Switched to a fixed deal before the cold weather hit.”
“I thought I’d found the cheapest tariff elsewhere, but the total cost was lower here once usage was considered.”
“The process was straightforward and I didn’t lose supply at any point. Helpful reminders about my contract end date too.”
Trust & transparency
- Whole-of-market approach to help you compare available home tariffs
- Clear display of key costs: unit rates, standing charges, term and fees
- Switching support from quote to confirmation
Ready to lock in a cheaper fixed rate before winter?
The cap is £1,663/yr—get tailored fixed tariff prices for your home, compare the true total cost, and switch with confidence. It only takes a few minutes to start.
No obligation. Your quotes depend on your region, usage and meter type.
Fast switching, clearer choices
- See fixed-term options side-by-side
- Spot exit fees before you commit
- Choose dual fuel or single fuel
Back to Energy Cost Saving Advice