What is a fix and fall energy tariff?

A fix and fall tariff is designed to protect you if energy prices rise (your unit rate is capped) while still allowing your price to reduce if the market (or the supplier’s benchmark) falls. The exact rules vary by supplier, so always check how and when reductions are applied and whether any fees or conditions apply.

Are fix and fall tariffs good for EV charging?

They can be a good option if you want price protection but still want to benefit if rates drop. For EV drivers, compare a fix and fall tariff against EV-specific off-peak tariffs (often cheaper overnight) and choose based on your charging pattern and annual mileage.

How do I choose the best fix and fall tariff in February 2026?

Focus on the total annual cost, not just the headline unit rate. Compare: (1) unit rates (day/night if applicable), (2) standing charge, (3) how the ‘fall’ mechanism works, (4) contract length, (5) exit fees, and (6) payment method discounts. If you have an EV, include your expected kWh for charging in your comparison.

Do fix and fall tariffs have exit fees?

Some do and some don’t. Exit fees are most common on longer fixed-style deals. Check the tariff information label before switching so you know the cost of leaving early if a better deal appears.

Will my price drop automatically if energy prices fall?

Not always. On fix and fall tariffs, price decreases depend on the supplier’s terms—such as review dates, indexing method, and thresholds. Look for clear wording on how frequently prices can reduce and how those reductions are calculated.

Can I switch to a fix and fall tariff if I have a smart meter?

Yes. A smart meter typically makes it easier to access time-of-use tariffs and to bill accurately. However, availability depends on the supplier and your meter setup (including whether your EV charging tariff requires half-hourly readings).

What’s the difference between a fixed tariff and a fix and fall tariff?

A fixed tariff usually keeps your rates the same for the full term (unless you breach terms). A fix and fall tariff aims to cap your rate if prices rise but may reduce your rate if prices fall, according to the supplier’s rules.

How can I reduce EV charging costs on my tariff?

Charge in off-peak windows if your tariff offers them, schedule charging to avoid peak rates, and use a smart charger to control load. Also consider whether an EV-specific time-of-use tariff is cheaper overall than a fix and fall option for your mileage.

How do I switch energy tariffs with Energy Plus?

Use the comparison and switching journey on Energy Plus to review suitable tariffs and start your switch. You’ll typically need your postcode, current supplier details, and an estimate of your annual electricity (and gas, if applicable) usage, plus your EV charging habits to improve accuracy.

What information do I need to compare fix and fall tariffs accurately?

Have your latest bill or account details ready: annual kWh usage, current unit rates and standing charge, your tariff end date, and whether you have (or can get) a smart meter. EV drivers should estimate monthly charging kWh to ensure comparisons reflect real-world costs.

Best fix and fall energy tariffs (UK) — February 2026

A practical guide to “fix and fall” (price promise) tariffs: how they work, who they suit, and what to check before you switch. Compare options across the market and get a quote in minutes.

Clear explanation of fix-and-fall vs standard fixed vs variable tariffs
UK-specific checks: meter type, payment method, region, exit fees, and eligibility
Two realistic cost scenarios (with assumptions) to help you decide

Get your energy quote How fix and fall works

Estimates only. Availability and terms vary by supplier, region, meter type and payment method. Always check unit rates, standing charges and any exit fees before you switch.

Fast answer: what are the best fix and fall tariffs in February 2026?

The “best” fix-and-fall tariff is the one that gives you protection if prices rise while still letting you benefit if prices drop — without locking you into high standing charges, strict eligibility rules, or large exit fees.

Important: “Fix and fall” is a marketing label. Different suppliers implement it differently (e.g., automatic price drops, re-pricing at set dates, or a cheaper equivalent tariff you must request). Always read the tariff information label and key terms.

Key takeaways

Unit rates + standing charges matter more than the tariff name.
Check exit fees and whether price drops are automatic.
Eligibility can depend on region, payment method, and meter type (including smart/prepay).
If you’re already on a cheap fixed tariff, “fix and fall” may not beat it once standing charges are considered.

Who it’s usually good for

Households that want budget certainty but don’t want to miss out if prices fall.
People who prefer less switching admin (if the “fall” part is automatic).
Homes considering EV charging or higher use where unit rates dominate.

Who should be cautious

Anyone who may move soon (exit fees can apply).
Prepayment customers (some tariffs exclude prepay or have different rates).
Homes with low usage (standing charges can dominate the bill).

Compare fix-and-fall style tariffs across the market

Tell us a few details and we’ll show tariffs you may be eligible for — including options that protect you against price rises and may reduce if market prices drop (where the supplier’s terms allow).

What you’ll need: your postcode (for regional rates), and whether you pay by Direct Debit, prepayment, or on receipt of bill. If you have a smart meter, that can change what’s available.

How fix and fall tariffs work (plain English)

The “fix” part

You lock in unit rates and standing charges for a set term (often 12–24 months). If prices rise, your rate stays the same (subject to the tariff’s terms).

The “fall” part

If the supplier later offers a cheaper equivalent tariff or reduces rates, you may benefit — but the mechanism varies: automatic adjustment, scheduled re-pricing, or a “switch within supplier” request.

What it’s not

It’s not the same as a variable tariff (which can go up or down). And it’s not a guarantee you’ll always be moved to the lowest deal in the market.

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Fix and fall vs fixed vs variable: what to compare

Use the table below to sanity-check supplier claims. The goal is to compare the mechanics (how price drops happen), the cost structure (unit rates and standing charges), and the risk (exit fees and eligibility).

Feature	Fix & fall (price promise)	Standard fixed	Variable (SVT/variable)
Price protection if rates rise	Usually yes (like a fixed tariff)	Yes	No (can increase)
Benefit if prices fall	Sometimes (depends on terms: auto drop, scheduled review, or request-based)	No (unless you switch)	Yes (can decrease)
Exit fees	Common (check per fuel and per meter)	Common	Usually none
Standing charge risk	Can be higher to fund the promise	Varies by supplier and region	Varies; often benchmarked near the cap
Best for	People who want stability but don’t want to chase every drop	People happy to re-shop if prices improve	People wanting flexibility and no exit fee

Decision checklist (quick)

Is the price-drop feature automatic, or do you need to request it?
Are there exit fees (per fuel) and when do they apply?
Do rates differ for Direct Debit vs prepayment?
Does the tariff require a smart meter or online-only account?
What are the standing charges in your region?
Is it a single-rate tariff or related to Economy 7 / time-of-use?

Two realistic scenarios (with numbers)

Assumptions (for illustration only): single-rate electricity, Direct Debit, and prices shown are example rates to demonstrate how the maths works. Your actual rates vary by region and supplier.

Scenario A: medium-use dual fuel household: Electricity 3,100 kWh/year and gas 12,000 kWh/year.; Example fixed rates: elec 25p/kWh + 55p/day; gas 6.2p/kWh + 32p/day.; Estimated annual cost: ~£1,624 (elec ~£1,078; gas ~£546).; If a fix-and-fall tariff dropped unit rates by 8% mid-term (standing charges unchanged), estimated annualised saving would be ~£89 — but only if the drop applies automatically and for enough months.
Scenario B: electricity-heavy home (EV / heat pump-like usage): Electricity 6,000 kWh/year; gas 0 kWh/year.; Example fixed rates: elec 24p/kWh + 55p/day.; Estimated annual cost: ~£1,725.; A 5% unit-rate drop later in the term could be worth ~£72/year at this usage — but a higher standing charge can wipe this out for lower-use homes.

These scenarios are not predictions. They’re a way to understand the trade-off between unit rates, standing charges and the value of any “fall” feature.

Costs, exclusions and common pitfalls (UK)

Most disappointment with “fix and fall” tariffs comes from small-print differences. Here are the checks that most often change whether a tariff is genuinely good value.

1) Exit fees and moving home

Fixed tariffs (including fix-and-fall) often have exit fees per fuel. If you’re likely to move or switch again soon, weigh the fee against the benefit of fixing.

2) Standing charges can be the “catch”

A tariff can advertise a competitive unit rate but have a higher standing charge. For low-use households, standing charges can outweigh any “fall” benefit.

3) Payment method changes availability

Direct Debit tariffs are typically cheapest. Prepayment and pay-on-receipt-of-bill can have different rates and fewer fix-and-fall style options.

4) Meter type and tariffs don’t always mix

Economy 7, smart time-of-use, and some multi-register meters can limit the tariffs you can take. Always match the tariff structure to your meter and usage pattern.

5) “Fall” may be conditional

Some tariffs only reduce if the supplier launches a new version, only at certain dates, or only after you opt in. If the terms are vague, treat the “fall” as a bonus — not a guarantee.

6) Introductory discounts and add-ons

Watch for bundles (e.g., boiler cover) or short-term credits. Compare the underlying rates, not just the first bill.

Tip: If you’re deciding between two fixes, calculate the yearly difference using: (unit rate × annual kWh) + (standing charge × 365) for each fuel. Small per-day standing charge changes can matter more than you expect.

FAQs: fix and fall tariffs (UK)

1) Are fix and fall tariffs regulated by Ofgem?

Energy suppliers are regulated by Ofgem, but “fix and fall” isn’t a single regulated product type. Suppliers must be clear and not misleading, but the exact promise can differ between tariffs.

2) Will my rates automatically drop if the Ofgem price cap falls?

Not automatically on most fixed tariffs. A fix-and-fall style tariff may reduce if the supplier’s terms allow, but it won’t necessarily track the price cap or the cheapest market deals.

3) Can I switch if I’m in a fixed tariff with exit fees?

Yes, but you may have to pay an exit fee (check per fuel). Some suppliers waive fees in specific circumstances. If you’re moving home, ask the supplier if you can take the tariff with you.

4) Do fix and fall tariffs work for prepayment meters?

Sometimes, but availability is often more limited and rates can differ from Direct Debit. If you have a smart prepay meter, you may see more options than traditional key/card meters.

5) Is a fix-and-fall tariff a good idea if I use very little energy?

Be careful. Low-use homes are more sensitive to standing charges. A tariff with a slightly higher unit rate but a lower standing charge can be cheaper overall for low consumption.

6) I have Economy 7 — can I still get a fix-and-fall tariff?

Possibly, but you’ll need an Economy 7 (two-rate) tariff. Many fix-and-fall offers focus on single-rate meters, so your shortlist may be smaller. Always compare day and night rates plus standing charges.

7) How long does switching take in the UK?

Switching timescales can vary by supplier and circumstances, but many switches complete within a few working days. Your supply won’t be interrupted; only the billing changes.

8) What if I’m in debt to my current supplier?

If you owe money, switching may be restricted (especially on prepay). Talk to your supplier about repayment plans. Citizens Advice has guidance if you’re struggling with bills.

Trust, transparency and how we assess “best” (methodology)

Page ownership

Written by:: EnergyPlus Editorial Team
Reviewed by:: Energy Specialist
Last updated:: February 2026

Our approach (what “best” means here)

We don’t label a single supplier as “best for everyone”. Instead, we focus on what makes a fix-and-fall tariff good value and low regret for UK households:

Total estimated annual cost (unit rates + standing charges) for the user’s region and payment method.
Clarity of the “fall” mechanism: automatic vs request-based vs scheduled review.
Exit fee risk relative to likely benefit.
Eligibility friction: meter requirements, online-only accounts, Direct Debit-only pricing, and credit checks.
Fit for usage pattern (low-use vs high-use; single-rate vs Economy 7/time-of-use).

Limitations: Suppliers can change tariffs quickly, and some deals are offered only to specific regions, meter types, or customer segments. We recommend confirming rates on the tariff information label before switching.

Sources (UK)

Ofgem (energy regulator) — market rules, switching, and consumer protections.
Citizens Advice energy guidance — help with bills, switching and complaints.
GOV.UK — official government guidance (including support schemes where applicable).

Editorial standards

We use cautious language (“estimated”, “may”, “terms vary”).
We prioritise clear decision checks over hype.
We update this page when market conditions change or new tariff structures emerge.

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Updated on 25 Feb 2026