Cheapest gas and electricity tariff in the UK this week
See what “cheapest” really means right now, how to check eligibility for your home, and get a whole-of-market quote in minutes (no obligation).
- Updated guidance for UK households (direct debit, prepay, smart meters and Economy 7)
- Transparent methodology: how we compare tariffs, what we assume, and what can change
- Quick form to check the cheapest available tariff for your postcode and usage
Prices and availability can change daily and vary by region, meter type and payment method. Always check unit rates, standing charges and any exit fees before switching.
Fast answer: what’s the cheapest tariff “this week”?
For most UK households, the cheapest tariff this week is usually the deal with the lowest estimated annual cost for your postcode + meter type + payment method + usage. There isn’t one single nationwide cheapest tariff that suits everyone, because unit rates and standing charges vary by region (and sometimes by meter type).
Important: A tariff that looks cheapest on unit rate alone can cost more overall if the standing charge is higher (especially for low usage homes). Always compare the estimated annual cost using your own usage where possible.
Key takeaways (UK-specific)
- Direct debit tariffs are often cheaper than pay-on-receipt, but not always.
- Prepayment customers may see fewer options; switching can require a compatible meter setup.
- Smart meters can unlock more tariffs, but you can still switch without one in most cases.
- Economy 7 / multi-rate homes should compare using split day/night usage—single-rate comparisons can be misleading.
- Exit fees can wipe out savings if you plan to switch again soon.
Use the quote form below to check what is cheapest for your home this week.
Check your cheapest gas & electricity tariff (postcode-based)
Tell us where you live and how to reach you, and we’ll match you with available tariffs across the market. You’ll be able to compare estimated annual cost, unit rates and standing charges before you choose.
What you’ll need (optional but helpful):
- A recent bill or in-app statement (for kWh usage)
- Your current supplier and tariff name (if you know it)
- Whether you have a smart meter or prepay meter
What happens next
- We check tariff availability for your postcode and meter setup.
- You compare total estimated cost (not just unit rate).
- If you switch, your new supplier handles the move—normally with no interruption to supply.
Get your quote
We’ll use these details to find tariffs for your area and contact you with your results.
Compare tariffs the right way (so “cheapest” stays cheapest)
When you compare gas and electricity tariffs, focus on the total estimated cost for your household—not just a headline unit rate. This is especially important in the UK, where standing charges, regional pricing, and meter types can change the outcome.
| What you’re comparing | Why it matters | Quick check |
|---|---|---|
| Estimated annual cost | Best single “cheapest” indicator because it includes usage + standing charge. | Is it based on your kWh or a generic typical use? |
| Unit rates (p/kWh) | Higher-usage homes feel unit rate differences more strongly. | Check both gas and electricity, and any day/night rates. |
| Standing charges (p/day) | Can dominate bills for low usage or small flats. | Multiply by 365 to see the annual baseline cost. |
| Payment method | Direct debit, pay on receipt and prepay tariffs can price differently. | Make sure the quote matches how you want to pay. |
| Tariff type | Fixed deals can offer certainty; variable deals can change (within rules). | Look for the end date of a fix and any price change terms. |
| Exit fees | A cheap fix may cost more if you need to leave early. | Check “per fuel” exit fee and if it applies near the end date. |
Quick decision checklist
- A “cheapest” tariff is more likely to suit you if…
- You can pay by direct debit, have standard credit history requirements, and your meter type matches the tariff (single-rate vs Economy 7 vs prepay).
- It may not suit you if…
- You expect to move soon, need maximum flexibility, have very low usage (standing charge matters more), or you’re on a complex multi-rate setup that needs careful matching.
Two realistic cost scenarios (worked examples)
These are illustrations only to show how “cheapest” can change. Your actual prices depend on region, supplier and tariff terms.
-
Scenario A: Low-usage flat (single-rate electricity + gas)
Assumptions: Electricity 1,800 kWh/yr, Gas 6,000 kWh/yr. Compare tariff with lower standing charge vs tariff with lower unit rate.
Example maths: If Tariff 1 saves 10p/day standing charge across both fuels, that’s about £73/year (0.10 × 365 × 2 fuels ≈ £73) before unit rates are even considered. For low usage, this can outweigh a slightly better unit rate. -
Scenario B: Family home (higher usage)
Assumptions: Electricity 3,600 kWh/yr, Gas 14,000 kWh/yr. Compare tariff with 1.5p/kWh cheaper electricity and 0.5p/kWh cheaper gas, but with 5p/day higher standing charge per fuel.
Example maths: Unit-rate saving ≈ (3,600×£0.015) + (14,000×£0.005) = £54 + £70 = £124/year. Extra standing charge ≈ 0.05×365×2 = £36.50/year. Net illustrative saving ≈ £87.50/year.
Tip: If you don’t know your kWh, use a recent bill or your online account. Comparing on the wrong usage profile is one of the easiest ways to pick the “wrong cheapest”.
Costs, exclusions and common pitfalls (UK)
The “cheapest tariff” headline can hide details that matter to your bill. These are the most common reasons a deal isn’t as cheap as it first looks.
1) Exit fees on fixed deals
Many fixed tariffs charge an exit fee per fuel if you leave early. If you might move home or switch again soon, factor this in.
2) Standing charge differences
A tariff can have a great unit rate but a higher standing charge. Low-usage households can end up paying more overall.
3) Meter compatibility
Some tariffs are only available for certain meter types (smart, prepay, Economy 7). Always ensure the tariff matches your setup.
4) Economy 7 compared as single-rate
If your quote assumes the wrong day/night split, the “cheapest” result can be misleading. Check your actual night usage.
If you’re renting: can you switch?
In many cases, tenants can switch supplier if they pay the bills, but your tenancy agreement may have rules about changing meters or repaying debts. If in doubt, check your agreement or ask your landlord/agent.
What to check before you switch
- Tariff end date (for fixed deals) and renewal terms
- Exit fees (per fuel) and any exceptions
- Whether prices are regional and if VAT is included (domestic is typically 5%)
- Any requirements (direct debit, online-only billing, smart meter)
What not to over-optimise
- Don’t pick purely on a “£/month” estimate if your usage is unusual.
- Don’t ignore service factors if you rely on top-ups or have accessibility needs.
- Don’t assume a tariff is available until it’s shown for your postcode and meter type.
FAQs: cheapest energy tariffs in the UK
Is there one single cheapest gas and electricity tariff for the whole UK?
Usually not. Prices can vary by region (your postcode), meter type (single-rate/Economy 7/prepay), and payment method. The cheapest for your neighbour may not be cheapest for you.
What does “whole-of-market comparison” mean?
It means we aim to show a broad view of available tariffs and help you compare them using consistent factors (estimated annual cost, unit rates, standing charges and key terms). Availability still depends on supplier participation and your eligibility.
Can I switch if I’m on a prepayment meter?
Often, yes—but options can be more limited. Your ability to switch may depend on any outstanding debt arrangements and whether the new supplier supports your meter type. If you’re unsure, get a quote and we’ll show what’s available for your setup.
Do smart meters make tariffs cheaper?
A smart meter doesn’t automatically make energy cheaper, but it can enable certain tariff types and more accurate billing. You can still usually switch without one, though your meter type can affect which tariffs are available.
Is a fixed tariff always cheaper than a variable tariff?
No. A fixed tariff can offer price certainty for a set period, while a variable tariff can change. Which is cheaper depends on current market pricing, your region and the specific tariff terms (including standing charge and exit fees).
How long does switching take in the UK?
Switching time varies, but many supplier switches complete within days to a couple of weeks. Your supply shouldn’t be interrupted—only the company that bills you changes.
Will I need to give meter readings?
Often, yes. A reading at the point of switch helps ensure your final bill from the old supplier and opening bill from the new supplier are accurate. Smart meters may submit readings automatically, depending on configuration.
I don’t know my kWh usage—can I still compare?
Yes. You can start with an estimate, but for the most accurate “cheapest” result, use a recent bill, your online account, or your in-home display (smart meters). If you’re Economy 7, try to find your day/night split.
How we assess “cheapest this week” (methodology you can check)
Editorial and review details
- Written by
- EnergyPlus Editorial Team
- Reviewed by
- Energy Specialist
- Last updated
- May 2026
Our definition of “cheapest”
We treat “cheapest” as the tariff with the lowest estimated annual cost for a given household, based on:
- Postcode region (because standing charges and unit rates vary by distribution region)
- Meter type (single-rate, Economy 7/multi-rate, smart prepay, traditional prepay)
- Payment method (e.g. direct debit vs pay on receipt)
- Usage (kWh) for gas and electricity, where provided; otherwise an estimate is used
We also look at key terms that affect real-world cost and satisfaction, including exit fees, tariff length, and whether rates are fixed or variable.
Assumptions and limitations (please read)
- Tariffs can change or be withdrawn quickly; “this week” reflects what’s currently available, not a guarantee.
- Estimated costs depend on the accuracy of your usage and meter details (especially Economy 7 splits).
- Some households may face supplier-specific eligibility checks (credit checks, payment setup, meter work).
- We can’t promise a specific saving; we focus on helping you compare the full picture transparently.
Sources (UK)
- Ofgem (UK energy regulator) — rules, guidance, consumer protections
- Citizens Advice: energy — practical help on bills, switching and complaints
- GOV.UK energy guidance — support schemes and official information
We link to these sources so you can verify consumer rights and market rules independently.
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