Cheapest single rate electricity tariff UK now
Find the cheapest single rate electricity tariff available for your postcode (same unit price day and night). We explain what “cheapest” really means in the UK, what to watch for (standing charges, exit fees, payment types), and how to compare safely in minutes.
- Whole-of-market comparison for UK homes (not business energy)
- Checks both unit rate and standing charge (so you can compare like-for-like)
- Clear caveats for smart meters, prepayment and regional pricing
Estimates only. Prices vary by region, meter type and payment method. Availability can change daily.
Fast answer: Cheapest single rate electricity tariff UK now
The cheapest single rate electricity tariff UK now is the tariff that gives the lowest estimated annual cost for your postcode when you add the unit rate (p/kWh) and the daily standing charge for your meter and payment type. There isn’t one national “cheapest” tariff for everyone—prices vary by region, meter, and eligibility.
Key takeaway 1
“Cheapest” depends on your usage. A lower unit rate can be beaten by a lower standing charge if you use less electricity.
Key takeaway 2
Single rate means one price all day. If you have an Economy 7-style meter, check if switching to single rate would increase your night-time costs.
Key takeaway 3
Always check exit fees, contract length, and payment method (Direct Debit vs prepayment). These can change the true cost.
How to find the cheapest single rate electricity tariff (UK)
If you want the cheapest single rate tariff, the goal is simple: compare estimated annual cost using your meter and payment type, then sanity-check the details that often make a “cheap” deal expensive later.
- Confirm you’re looking at single rate tariffs. These have one unit rate across the day (unlike Economy 7 / time-of-use).
- Use your postcode and usage. Electricity prices are regional, and the best tariff can change depending on whether you use (for example) 1,800 kWh vs 4,200 kWh per year.
- Compare the full cost: unit rate + standing charge. Standing charges are paid daily, even if you use little.
- Check contract terms. Look for fixed vs variable, length, and any exit fees—especially if you might move.
- Double-check eligibility. Some tariffs depend on payment method (Direct Debit), having a smart meter, or being a new customer.
Two realistic cost scenarios (worked examples)
These examples show why “cheapest” can depend on your usage. Figures below are illustrative only (not live market rates). We use the standard cost formula so you can compare tariffs you see in your results.
Scenario A: lower usage flat
Assumptions: 1,800 kWh/year electricity; single rate; illustrative tariff quotes.
- Tariff 1 (lower unit rate)
- Unit 26p + SC 60p/day
- Estimated annual cost
- £1,061
- Tariff 2 (lower standing charge)
- Unit 29p + SC 40p/day
- Estimated annual cost
- £1,018
With lower usage, a cheaper standing charge can win overall, even if the unit rate is higher.
Scenario B: higher usage household
Assumptions: 4,200 kWh/year electricity; single rate; illustrative tariff quotes.
- Tariff 1 (lower unit rate)
- Unit 26p + SC 60p/day
- Estimated annual cost
- £1,685
- Tariff 2 (lower standing charge)
- Unit 29p + SC 40p/day
- Estimated annual cost
- £1,679
At higher usage, the unit rate matters more—so the “cheapest” can flip depending on the numbers you enter.
Check live prices for your postcode
Get a tailored list of single rate electricity tariffs available for your home. We’ll use your details to estimate annual cost and show key terms so you can decide confidently.
Compare single rate tariff types (what “cheapest” can mean)
When people search for the cheapest single rate electricity tariff, they often mean one of these: lowest cost right now, lowest risk of increases, or best value for low usage. This table helps you choose what to prioritise before you compare live deals.
| Option | How prices behave | Best for | Watch-outs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fixed single rate | Unit rate and standing charge are fixed for the contract term (unless you change tariff). | Budgeting; protection from price rises during the term. | Exit fees may apply; good deals can sell out; check what happens at end of fix. |
| Variable single rate | Prices can change (supplier notice required). Some may broadly move with the market. | Flexibility; no long tie-in; people expecting prices to fall. | Cost uncertainty; increases can happen; compare regularly. |
| Low standing charge focus | May have higher unit rate but a lower daily charge. | Low-usage homes; second homes; people away often. | Higher cost if you use more; check total annual estimate. |
| Green/renewable-backed single rate | Same single rate structure; supplier may buy certificates or match usage via renewables. | Those prioritising environmental claims alongside price. | Definitions vary; read tariff details and supplier fuel mix disclosures. |
Quick checklist: who single rate suits (and who it doesn’t)
Single rate is usually a good fit if you…
- Use most electricity during the day/evening (not heavily overnight).
- Want simple billing: one unit price all the time.
- Have a standard credit meter or smart meter set up for single rate.
- Prefer predictable estimates when comparing tariffs.
Be cautious (or get advice) if you…
- Have Economy 7/10 or a time-of-use setup and run appliances overnight.
- Charge an EV mostly off-peak (a time-of-use tariff could be cheaper).
- Are on prepayment—availability and rates can differ.
- Rent and can’t easily access meter details (still possible, just double-check eligibility).
Costs, exclusions and common pitfalls (UK-specific)
The “cheapest” headline can hide costs or conditions. Here are the checks that most often prevent bill shock after switching.
Standing charge vs unit rate
A tariff with a low unit rate can still cost more overall if the standing charge is higher. Always compare estimated annual cost based on your usage.
Regional pricing
Electricity costs vary across Great Britain by distribution region. A tariff that’s cheap in one postcode may not be cheapest in another.
Payment method differences
Direct Debit tariffs can differ from prepayment and pay-on-receipt-of-bill. If you can’t (or don’t want to) pay by Direct Debit, filter accordingly.
Exit fees on fixed tariffs
A fixed deal can be great value, but if you leave early you may pay an exit fee. If you may move home soon, weigh flexibility higher.
Meter type & rate setup
If your meter is configured for multi-rate (Economy 7) you may need a meter settings change to move to single rate. Your supplier can advise what’s possible.
Intro deals and end dates
Some tariffs change after an introductory period. Check what happens after any initial discount and what the follow-on tariff could cost.
FAQs: cheapest single rate electricity tariffs (UK)
What is a single rate electricity tariff?
A single rate electricity tariff charges one unit rate (pence per kWh) all day and night, plus a daily standing charge. It’s the most common setup for standard meters and is usually simpler than multi-rate tariffs like Economy 7.
Is there one cheapest single rate electricity tariff for the whole UK?
No. Electricity prices vary by region (postcode), meter type, and payment method, and tariffs can change. The cheapest option for you is the one with the lowest estimated annual cost based on your own kWh usage and standing charge in your area.
How do I calculate which single rate tariff is cheapest for me?
Use this: (unit rate × your annual kWh) + (standing charge × 365). Then factor in any exit fees and whether prices are fixed or variable. A comparison using your postcode and usage does this automatically and helps you avoid missing eligibility rules.
Will a single rate tariff be cheaper than Economy 7?
It depends on when you use electricity. Economy 7 (and other time-of-use tariffs) can be cheaper if you use a large share overnight (for example, storage heating or EV charging). If most use is daytime/evening, single rate can be better. Check your day vs night usage before switching.
Can I switch to a single rate tariff if I have a smart meter?
Usually yes, but it depends on how your meter is configured and what tariffs are available from the supplier. Some smart-meter tariffs are time-of-use by design. If you want single rate, compare options for your postcode and check the tariff details before you agree.
Do prepayment customers get the same cheapest single rate deals?
Not always. Prepayment tariffs can be priced differently and some deals are limited to Direct Debit. If you’re on prepayment, compare using your current payment method and look carefully at whether a tariff requires Direct Debit or a credit check to access the price shown.
Are fixed or variable single rate tariffs cheaper right now?
It varies. Fixed tariffs can offer price certainty, while variable tariffs can be more flexible and may fall (or rise) with supplier price changes. The “cheapest” choice depends on live market prices in your region, how long you plan to stay, and your tolerance for price changes.
How quickly will my tariff switch complete in the UK?
Switching times can vary, but many UK switches complete within a few working days, depending on the supplier and any meter or account checks. You should receive confirmation of key dates, and you’ll still have time to review terms before supply fully transfers.
Trust, methodology and sources
Page accountability
- Written by: EnergyPlus Editorial Team
- Reviewed by: Energy Specialist
- Last updated: July 2026
How we assess “cheapest single rate”
Because tariffs vary by postcode and change frequently, we don’t state a single national “cheapest tariff” on this page. Instead, we focus on a transparent approach you can apply to the live options in the quote journey:
- Primary measure: lowest estimated annual electricity cost for your details.
- Cost components: unit rate (p/kWh) + standing charge (p/day).
- User inputs that materially change results: postcode/region, annual kWh, meter type (single vs multi-rate), and payment method.
- Value checks: contract length, exit fees, and whether prices are fixed or variable.
Independent UK sources we rely on
- Ofgem (UK energy regulator) — rules on switching, billing, and tariff information.
- Citizens Advice: energy — practical consumer guidance on energy bills and switching.
- GOV.UK — official UK government guidance, including support schemes where applicable.
Ready to check the cheapest single rate tariff for your home?
Get live, postcode-specific results and compare the full cost (unit rate + standing charge), contract terms and eligibility in one place.
No guarantees of savings. Always check tariff details, fees and payment method before you switch.
Back to Energy Cost Saving Advice