Cheapest UK prepayment meter tariffs this month

Compare the cheapest prepayment meter tariffs for your home

Prepayment prices can vary by region, meter type (traditional key/card vs smart prepay), and how you top up. That’s why the “cheapest UK prepayment tariff this month” is different for every household.

Use the form to tell us a few basics (postcode and contact details). We’ll confirm what you have now and show you competitive options available for your address—focusing on the numbers that matter: unit rates, standing charges, exit fees (if any), and any requirements around smart meters.

Prepayment meter tariffs: what you need to know

• Tariff costs are mainly driven by your unit rate (p/kWh) and standing charge (p/day).
• Smart prepay may enable easier top-ups and better control, and can expand tariff options.
• Some households can move from prepay to credit if there’s no debt and your supplier agrees—often unlocking more deals.

Whole-of-market view

We compare across the market and highlight what’s available for prepayment meters in your region—so you’re not limited to one supplier’s offers.

Built for real bills

We focus on what changes your monthly spend: standing charge, unit rate, any discounts, and how top-ups work on your meter type.

Straightforward switching help

If switching is possible for your meter and supplier, we’ll guide you through the steps and explain when a smart meter upgrade might help.

The 3 numbers to compare

• Electricity unit rate (p/kWh)
• Gas unit rate (p/kWh) (if you have gas)
• Standing charge (p/day) for each fuel

Also check these

• Payment method: PayPoint/Payzone, app, online, phone
• Smart meter requirements for smart prepay tariffs
• Debt recovery settings if your meter is repaying arrears
• Any fees or constraints (rare, but worth checking)

Prepay switching: what can block it?

• Outstanding debt tied to the meter/supplier
• Technical meter limitations in your property
• Supplier restrictions in specific regions
• Safety checks or access requirements for meter work

What helps you get cheaper

• Having a smart prepayment meter (more flexible)
• Top-ups via app/online where supported (more visibility)
• Reducing standing charge exposure by choosing a better tariff
• Checking dual fuel vs single fuel pricing

1) Check your standing charge

For low-usage homes, a high standing charge can outweigh a slightly cheaper unit rate. Compare both numbers, not just one.

2) Review debt deductions

If your meter is repaying arrears, ask your supplier what the deduction rate is and whether it can be adjusted to avoid self-disconnection.

3) Consider smart prepay

Smart prepay can make top-ups easier and may broaden tariff availability. We’ll tell you if a switch could require a smart meter appointment.

Common mistakes when hunting “the cheapest”

• Comparing tariffs without checking the standing charge
• Assuming a friend’s deal is available in your region
• Not factoring in debt recovery on the meter
• Switching without confirming meter compatibility

If you might be eligible to move off prepay

Some households can switch from prepay to a credit meter, which may open up more tariffs. Eligibility varies by supplier and situation.

• No outstanding energy debt (or a repayment plan agreed)
• Safe meter location and access for an appointment
• Supplier acceptance and credit checks where applicable

Are prepayment tariffs always more expensive?

Not always. Prices change over time and differ by supplier and region. The best approach is to compare your unit rates and standing charges against what’s currently available for your meter type.

Can I switch supplier with a prepayment meter?

Often yes, but it depends on your meter, any debt linked to it, and which suppliers are accepting prepay customers in your area at the moment. We’ll check availability as part of your comparison.

What’s the difference between key/card and smart prepay?

Key/card meters are topped up in-store (or sometimes online with a code). Smart prepay meters can often be topped up via app/online and provide better usage visibility. Tariff availability can differ between the two.

Will switching affect my emergency credit or friendly credit?

Emergency credit and friendly credit rules can vary by supplier and meter type. If you rely on these features, tell us—so we can factor it into recommendations.

Do you compare fixed and variable tariffs?

Yes. Where available for prepayment customers, we’ll show options across tariff types and explain the trade-offs—especially around rates and flexibility.

What information should I have ready?

Postcode is enough to start. If you have them, your current unit rates/standing charges (from a receipt or app) help us pinpoint the best savings.

Real people, clear answers

“I didn’t understand my standing charge at all. EnergyPlus explained it simply and found a better option for my area.”

— Hannah, Leeds

Helpful for prepay households

“They checked which suppliers were actually taking prepay customers and saved me time going round in circles.”

— Mark, Glasgow

No confusing comparisons

“They compared unit rates and standing charges properly. I finally knew what I was paying for.”

— Aisha, Birmingham