Cheapest green energy tariff for renters in the UK (updated)

Likely to suit you if…

• You pay by Direct Debit and can pass a basic credit check (where required).
• You want a simple green electricity tariff (REGOs-backed) and don’t need specialist add-ons.
• You may move soon and prefer no exit fee or a short fix.
• You can provide meter readings (or have a smart meter) and manage an online account.

May not suit you if…

• You’re on a prepayment meter and your supplier options are limited in your area.
• Bills are included with rent (you’re not the account holder).
• You have Economy 7 and can’t shift usage to night rates (a single-rate tariff could cost more).
• You need paper bills/phone support only (some cheaper tariffs are online-only).

Can I switch energy supplier if I rent?

Usually yes — if the energy account is in your name and you’re responsible for paying the bills. You typically don’t need your landlord’s permission to change supplier, but you should keep records and follow your tenancy terms.

What if bills are included in my rent?

If your landlord or letting agent is the bill payer, you generally can’t switch supplier because you don’t have the supply contract. You can still ask what tariff you’re on and whether they will consider greener options.

How do I know if a tariff is genuinely “green”?

Look for the supplier’s fuel mix and the tariff information label, and check whether electricity is backed by renewable certificates (such as REGOs). If the tariff includes “offset” gas, check what projects are used and whether there’s independent verification.

Are green tariffs always more expensive in the UK?

Not always. Some renewable electricity tariffs are priced competitively, especially on Direct Debit. The biggest premiums often come from greener gas options (biogas blends) or from adding extra services, not from renewable electricity alone.

I’m on a prepayment meter — can I get a cheap green tariff?

Possibly, but your options can be narrower. Some suppliers require a smart prepayment meter for certain tariffs. Compare what’s available for PAYG in your postcode, and check whether a meter change is required and who must authorise it.

Will switching affect my credit score?

Some payment methods (especially monthly Direct Debit on certain tariffs) may involve a credit check by the supplier. If you prefer to avoid this, look for tariffs/payment methods that don’t require one, though they may be priced differently.

What happens if I move home mid-contract?

You can usually take your tariff with you if the supplier serves your new address, but it’s not guaranteed. If you can’t, exit fees may apply on fixed tariffs. If moving is likely, consider no-exit-fee options.

Do I need a smart meter for the cheapest green tariffs?

Not for most standard green tariffs. However, some of the lowest “headline” rates are on smart/time-of-use tariffs that require half-hourly readings. If you can’t get a smart meter (or don’t want one), compare standard single-rate or Economy 7 options instead.

What details make the biggest difference when comparing?

Your postcode (region), payment method, meter type (including Economy 7 or prepayment), and realistic annual usage. If you’re unsure about usage, start with estimates, then update once you have bills.

Our “cheapest” criteria (cost)

• Estimated annual cost (unit rates + standing charges), not just “from” prices.
• Eligibility by region, payment method, and meter type (including Economy 7 and prepay).
• Fees and friction: exit fees, long contract terms, online-only constraints, and moving-home risk.

Our “green” criteria (credibility)

• Clear statement of renewable electricity matching (e.g. REGOs) and fuel mix disclosure.
• Transparency about what applies to electricity vs gas.
• Where “offsets” are used, we encourage checking project details and verification (quality varies).

Limitations (important)

• Tariffs can change daily; availability can be paused without notice.
• Not all suppliers/tariffs are available for every meter type or payment option.
• Your actual bill depends on readings, weather, and usage patterns; examples here are illustrative.