Economy 10 tariff guide: times, costs and pros (2026)
Economy 10 gives you 10 cheaper off-peak hours a day, spread across the night, afternoon and evening. Here is how it works in 2026, who it suits, and how to check if it beats Economy 7 or a single-rate deal.
- Understand the off-peak windows and the higher peak rate trade-off
- See worked May 2026 cost examples vs Economy 7 and single rate
- Compare whole-of-market tariffs by postcode — no obligation
Figures are illustrative estimates for the April–June 2026 Ofgem price cap period. Off-peak hours vary by supplier and region — always check yours.
Fast answer: is Economy 10 right for you?
Economy 10 gives 10 hours of cheaper electricity a day in exchange for a higher peak rate. It is worth it only if you can use a large share of your electricity during those off-peak windows — typically homes with storage heaters, electric wet heating or an immersion hot water cylinder.
Key takeaway: if more than roughly half your usage can fall in the off-peak hours, Economy 10 is worth comparing against Economy 7 and a low single-rate tariff. If your use is mostly at peak times, a single-rate deal is usually cheaper and far simpler.
Compare Economy 10 and alternatives for your home
Economy 10 availability and hours vary by supplier and region. A postcode-based quote shows what is actually offered to you and how it compares to single-rate and Economy 7 deals.
What we use to compare
- Postcode — region, available tariffs and standing charges.
- Meter type — multi-rate/Economy 10, Economy 7 or smart.
- Annual usage and how much you can shift off-peak.
- Payment method — Direct Debit, prepay or on receipt of bill.
No pressure: a quote does not commit you to switching. Review rates, off-peak windows and exit fees first.
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Enter your details and we will show tariffs available for your postcode and usage.
How Economy 10 works
Economy 10 splits the day into peak and off-peak bands, giving 10 cheaper hours. A common pattern (yours may differ) is:
~5 hours overnight
For storage heaters charging and overnight hot water.
~3 hours afternoon
Top-up heat for the evening without the peak rate.
~2 hours evening
A short cheaper window before the overnight band.
Important: exact times vary by supplier and region, and the peak rate is higher than a single-rate tariff. Confirm your supplier's published Economy 10 hours before you rely on them for heating or appliance timers.
Cost example: Economy 10 vs single rate
Illustrative — a storage-heater home using 6,000 kWh/year, with 60% shifted to off-peak.
| Tariff | Calculation (illustrative) | Estimated total |
|---|---|---|
| Economy 10 | Off-peak 0.16 × 3,600 (£576) + peak 0.32 × 2,400 (£768) + 0.60 × 365 standing (£219) | ≈ £1,563/yr |
| Single rate | 0.25 × 6,000 (£1,500) + 0.55 × 365 standing (£201) | ≈ £1,701/yr |
Here Economy 10 wins by shifting 60% off-peak. Drop that to 30% and the higher peak rate makes single rate cheaper — which is why your real off-peak share is the deciding factor.
Pitfalls to avoid
Assuming national off-peak times
Hours differ by supplier and region. Setting timers to the wrong window means paying peak rates by mistake.
Choosing Economy 10 with low off-peak use
The higher peak rate punishes homes that mostly use electricity in the evening peak.
Limited supplier choice
Fewer suppliers offer Economy 10 than Economy 7, so the cheapest single-rate deals may be off-limits while you stay on it.
Ignoring the cap timetable
Variable Economy 10 rates can move when the Ofgem cap updates (next change from 1 July 2026). Factor this into fix-vs-variable decisions.
FAQs
What is an Economy 10 tariff?
A time-of-use electricity tariff with 10 cheaper off-peak hours a day (usually night plus afternoon and evening) and a higher peak rate.
What are the Economy 10 off-peak hours?
Typically about 5 hours overnight, 3 in the afternoon and 2 in the evening — but exact windows vary by supplier and region, so check yours.
Is Economy 10 cheaper than Economy 7?
It can be for homes needing afternoon/evening heat, since it spreads 10 cheaper hours through the day — but only if you really use the off-peak windows.
Who should consider Economy 10 in 2026?
Homes with storage or electric wet heating, an immersion cylinder, or that can shift heavy use off-peak. Peak-heavy homes usually do better on single rate.
Do I need a special meter?
Yes — a compatible multi-rate or smart meter. Not all suppliers offer Economy 10, and availability depends on meter and region.
Trust, methodology and sources
- Written by
- EnergyPlus Editorial Team
- Reviewed by
- Energy Specialist
- Last updated
- May 2026
Cost figures are estimates using (rate × kWh) + (standing charge × 365) with illustrative rates for the April–June 2026 Ofgem price cap period. Your bill depends on real usage, your off-peak share, region and meter.
Is Economy 10 the cheapest option for your home?
Compare Economy 10, Economy 7 and single-rate deals for your postcode and usage.
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