How do I find the cheapest gas and electricity tariff available right now?

The quickest way is to compare using your postcode, meter type, payment method, and estimated annual usage. Tariffs change frequently, so comparing at the point you want to switch gives you the most current options.

Is it better to switch to a fixed or variable tariff right now?

It depends on the market outlook. Fixed tariffs give price certainty for the term. Variable tariffs, including standard variable and tracker deals, can go up or down. Comparing the estimated annual cost of each type for your usage helps make the decision clearer.

How much can switching energy tariff save me?

Savings vary significantly by current tariff, usage, and what is available in your region. When the market has competitive fixed deals, the saving versus a standard variable tariff can be hundreds of pounds per year for higher-usage households.

Do I need both gas and electricity from the same supplier?

No. You can use different suppliers for gas and electricity. While dual fuel deals can offer a small discount and simpler billing, splitting suppliers sometimes produces a lower combined cost. Comparing both approaches is worthwhile.

How long does switching energy supplier take right now?

Most switches complete within a few working days in the UK, following the fast switching framework. Your supply is not interrupted at any point during the switch.

What exit fees should I check before switching?

If you are on a fixed tariff that has not ended, check whether exit fees apply per fuel. Exit fees vary by supplier and tariff, and are usually a fixed amount per fuel rather than based on usage. They can reduce or eliminate the saving from switching early.

Can I switch if I have a debt on my energy account?

Ofgem rules generally allow switching even with a debt of up to 500 pounds per fuel, and suppliers must not block a switch solely on the basis of debt unless the amount exceeds that threshold. Check current rules and discuss repayment with your existing supplier.

How do standing charges affect which tariff is cheapest for me?

Standing charges are a fixed daily cost that apply regardless of usage. For lower-usage households, a tariff with a lower standing charge can sometimes be cheaper overall even if the unit rate is slightly higher. Always compare estimated annual cost rather than unit rate alone.

Cheapest gas and electricity tariff in the UK (right now)

See what “cheapest” really means for your home today — based on your postcode, meter type and payment method — and compare whole-of-market options with clear caveats.

Quick answer: cheapest tariffs are usually the lowest estimated annual cost for your details — not a single national tariff for everyone.
Compare like-for-like: unit rate (p/kWh), standing charge (p/day), contract length and exit fees.
Works for homeowners and tenants in Great Britain (not business energy).

Get your cheapest tariff quote How we assess “cheapest”

Estimates vary by region, meter, payment method and supplier eligibility. Always check tariff details before switching.

Fast answer: what’s the cheapest tariff in the UK right now?

There isn’t one single “cheapest gas and electricity tariff” for everyone in the UK. The cheapest option for your home depends on your postcode region (distribution area), payment method (Direct Debit, prepayment), meter type (credit, prepay, smart, economy/dual-rate), and your usage. That’s why the most accurate way to find the cheapest tariff right now is to compare whole-of-market prices using your details.

What “cheapest” usually means

Lowest estimated annual cost for your usage (not the lowest unit rate alone).
Includes standing charges (which can outweigh small unit-rate differences).
Assumes you meet eligibility (e.g., payment method, new-customer only offers).

Today’s most common “cheap” picks

Fixed tariffs can be cheapest when suppliers price keenly to win customers (check exit fees).
Tracker tariffs can be cheapest short-term, but costs can move daily/weekly.
SVT/Price Cap can be competitive for some homes, but not always the lowest.

Best next step (2 minutes)

Enter postcode + contact details (for your personalised quotes).
Select meter type and payment method.
Compare estimated annual costs and key terms.

Important: “Cheapest” is always an estimate. Your bill also depends on how much energy you use, VAT (usually 5% for households), and any changes to your usage over the year.

Compare the cheapest tariffs for your home

We’ll use your postcode to match your region and show available tariffs. If you’re not sure about your meter or usage, you can still get a result — we’ll flag where assumptions may affect the estimate.

What you’ll compare: estimated annual cost, unit rates (p/kWh), standing charges (p/day), contract length, exit fees, and whether a tariff is fixed, variable, or tracker.

Before you switch: 60-second checklist

Meter type: credit meter, prepayment, smart, or economy/dual-rate (e.g., Economy 7).
Payment method: Direct Debit is often cheaper than pay-on-receipt; prepay has different pricing.
Exit fees: fixed tariffs may charge if you leave early.
Warm Home Discount / priority services: check you’ll still get what you need after switching.

Prefer to read first?

Jump to tariff types compared or costs & common pitfalls.

Get your personalised quotes

Enter your details and we’ll match tariffs available for your address. If you switch, your supplier change is handled under Ofgem switching rules.

Tariff types compared (what’s usually cheapest — and when)

If you’re searching for the cheapest tariff “right now”, it helps to know how each tariff type behaves. The table below shows typical pros/cons so you can choose the cheapest option you can live with — not just the lowest headline figure.

Tariff type	How prices move	When it can be cheapest	Watch-outs
Fixed	Unit rates and standing charges fixed for a set term (e.g., 12 months)	When suppliers discount to win customers; when you want bill stability	Exit fees; may not fall if market prices drop
Standard Variable (SVT)	Can change with notice; often aligned with Ofgem’s Price Cap in GB	When fixed tariffs are priced high; when you want flexibility	Not always the cheapest; prices can rise; check standing charges
Tracker	Moves with a published formula (often linked to wholesale markets)	When wholesale prices are falling; for engaged customers who monitor costs	Costs can rise quickly; understand caps/limits (if any) and how often it updates
Prepayment (PAYG)	Pricing differs from credit meters; may be affected by payment method rules	If you need budgeting control or can’t pay by Direct Debit	Fewer tariffs; top-up convenience; check emergency credit and smart prepay options

Tip: Don’t choose on unit rate alone. A slightly higher unit rate with a much lower standing charge can be cheaper overall for lower-usage homes.

Decision checklist: who the cheapest fixed tariff suits

You want predictable pricing for 12–24 months.
You’re happy to stay put for the term (or accept possible exit fees).
You can pay by Direct Debit (often required for the best rates).
You prefer a clear comparison of total annual cost.

Who it may not suit (consider SVT/tracker instead)

You expect to move home soon (tenancy ending, sale pending).
You’re uncomfortable with exit fees or want maximum flexibility.
You’re on an economy/dual-rate meter and need a tariff that matches your off-peak use.
You need extra support arrangements (e.g., specific billing needs) — check supplier service levels.

Two realistic cost scenarios (with assumptions)

These examples show how “cheapest” can change depending on usage and standing charges. Numbers are illustrative estimates to explain the maths — your actual quotes will vary by region, tariff availability and the current market.

Scenario A: low-medium usage flat (single-rate)

Assumed annual use: Electricity 1,800 kWh + Gas 7,000 kWh
Tariff 1 (lower unit, higher standing): Elec 24p/kWh + 55p/day; Gas 6p/kWh + 35p/day
Tariff 2 (slightly higher unit, lower standing): Elec 26p/kWh + 40p/day; Gas 6.6p/kWh + 25p/day
Estimated outcome: Tariff 2 can be cheaper overall because the standing charge difference adds up over 365 days.

Scenario B: higher usage family home (single-rate)

Assumed annual use: Electricity 3,500 kWh + Gas 12,000 kWh
Tariff 1 (lower unit, higher standing): Elec 24p/kWh + 55p/day; Gas 6p/kWh + 35p/day
Tariff 2 (higher unit, lower standing): Elec 26p/kWh + 40p/day; Gas 6.6p/kWh + 25p/day
Estimated outcome: Tariff 1 can be cheaper overall at higher usage because unit rates dominate total cost.

Why we show scenarios: two tariffs can swap places depending on usage. That’s why we calculate estimated annual cost using the same assumptions across tariffs when ranking “cheapest”.

Costs, exclusions and common pitfalls (UK-specific)

Most “cheapest tariff” surprises come down to eligibility, meter setup, or fees. Use the cards below to avoid switching into a tariff that looks cheap but doesn’t fit your home.

Standing charges

A low unit rate can still cost more if the standing charge is high. This matters most for smaller flats and lower-usage homes.

Exit fees (fixed tariffs)

Many fixed tariffs charge if you leave before the end date. If you might move home or switch again soon, factor this into “cheapest”.

Payment method differences

Direct Debit tariffs can be priced lower than pay-on-receipt. Prepayment meter tariffs are often a separate product set.

Economy 7 / dual-rate

Some “cheap” single-rate tariffs aren’t suitable if you rely on off-peak electric heating. Check day/night splits and timings.

Smart meter requirements

Some tariffs require a smart meter (or are easier with one). If you don’t have one, check whether installation is needed and when.

Eligibility & new-customer deals

The cheapest tariffs can be restricted (e.g., new customers only) or limited by region/meter type. Always read the tariff facts.

EnergyPlus rule of thumb: If two tariffs are close, choose the one with clearer terms (exit fees, review dates, customer support) — not just the lowest headline estimate.

Quick exclusions (so you’re not misled)

Northern Ireland: energy pricing and suppliers differ from Great Britain; comparisons may be limited.
Business premises: this page is for home energy only.
Complex meter setups: some properties (multiple meters, restricted meters) need specialist handling.
Debt on a prepayment meter: switching can be possible, but options may be limited depending on circumstances.

FAQs: cheapest energy tariffs (UK)

Is there a single cheapest tariff in the UK for everyone?

No. Prices vary by region (your electricity and gas network area), meter type, payment method and your usage. The “cheapest” result is normally the lowest estimated annual cost for your specific details.

What should I compare besides the unit rate?

Compare unit rate (p/kWh), standing charge (p/day), contract length, exit fees, payment method requirements, and whether prices are fixed, variable or tracker. The cheapest tariff overall is usually based on unit rate + standing charge applied to your usage.

Are fixed tariffs always cheaper than the Price Cap / SVT?

Not always. At times, SVTs can be competitive, especially if fixed tariffs include a risk premium. Fixed tariffs can still be attractive if you want price certainty — but check exit fees and the end date.

Can tenants switch to a cheaper tariff?

Usually yes, as long as you pay the energy bills and your tenancy agreement doesn’t include energy as part of the rent. If you have a prepayment meter or landlord-managed supply, options can be more limited.

How long does switching take in Great Britain?

Switching timescales can vary, but supplier switching in GB is designed to be quicker than it used to be. Your new supplier will confirm your expected switch date, and you’ll normally keep energy supply throughout (no interruption).

Will I need to give meter readings when I switch?

Often yes. An opening/closing reading helps ensure you’re billed correctly between suppliers. If you have a smart meter, readings may be automated, but it’s still worth checking what’s used for your final bill.

Do I pay VAT on domestic energy?

Domestic energy bills typically include 5% VAT. Quote tools generally assume standard domestic VAT, but always check your tariff details and bill breakdown.

What if I’m on a prepayment meter — can I still get the cheapest tariff?

You can still compare, but the “cheapest” available tariffs may differ from credit-meter deals. If you’re interested in moving to credit (Direct Debit), you may need a credit check and supplier approval.

If you’re unsure: start with postcode + basic details, then refine your quotes when you know your meter type and approximate annual usage.

How we assess “cheapest” (methodology you can check)

Our definition of “cheapest”

When we say “cheapest tariff”, we mean the tariff with the lowest estimated annual cost for a given set of customer inputs (postcode region, meter type, payment method and usage). We do not rank tariffs by unit rate alone.

Inputs: postcode (region), payment method, meter type, consumption assumptions.
Outputs: estimated annual cost, plus unit rates, standing charges and key terms.
Like-for-like: same usage assumptions applied across tariffs in the comparison.

Limitations (what can change the result)

Regional pricing: electricity and gas charges vary by distribution region.
Eligibility: some deals are new-customer only or require Direct Debit.
Usage uncertainty: if your real usage differs, the cheapest tariff may change.
Tariff changes: variable/tracker tariffs can change after sign-up (rules vary by product).
Meter specifics: economy/dual-rate timings and rates can affect the true cheapest option.

Editorial & trust signals

Written by: EnergyPlus Editorial Team
Reviewed by: Energy Specialist (UK retail energy)
Last updated: April 2026

Sources we rely on (UK)

Ofgem (GB energy regulator) — guidance on tariffs, switching and consumer protections.
Citizens Advice: energy supply and switching — independent help on bills, meters and complaints.
GOV.UK — government guidance and household support information (where applicable).

We aim to keep this guide accurate and practical. If you spot anything unclear, compare using the form above and check the tariff information before agreeing to a switch.

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Updated on 16 Apr 2026