Compare energy tariffs with a discounted standing charge (UK)
Find home gas and electricity deals where the standing charge is reduced (or structured differently) — then compare the full cost using a whole-of-market comparison through EnergyPlus.co.uk.
- Whole-of-market comparison for UK households (not business)
- See whether a lower standing charge actually reduces your total annual bill
- Switch with confidence: clear explanations, no jargon, and transparent next steps
You’ll be comparing unit rates + standing charges. Savings depend on usage, region and meter type. Prices can change and availability varies by supplier.
Compare discounted standing charge energy tariffs (UK homes)
If you’re searching for an energy tariff with a discounted standing charge, it usually means you’re trying to reduce the fixed daily cost you pay even when you use little energy. That can be a smart goal — but it only pays off if the unit rate (pence per kWh) and any tariff conditions don’t wipe out the benefit.
EnergyPlus.co.uk helps you compare the whole market and focus on the tariffs that fit your usage pattern — whether you’re a low user, you’re away from home often, you’re in a small flat, or you simply prefer predictable costs.
Important: “discounted standing charge” can mean different things
- Lower daily standing charge than typical in your region
- Time-limited discount (e.g., introductory period)
- Bundled structure where savings appear as a credit or different pricing split
- Specialist tariffs (e.g., EV/time-of-use) that may trade higher standing charge for cheaper off-peak rates
Use the form to get started. We’ll compare quotes based on your postcode and preferences, so you can see the real total cost before you switch.
Get your discounted standing charge quotes
Fill in a few details to compare whole-of-market home energy deals.
Quick tip for low-usage homes
If you use less energy (e.g., small properties, single occupancy, or you’re away often), a lower standing charge can matter more. We’ll help you compare the full bill — not just one line on the tariff.
Who typically benefits from a discounted standing charge?
Standing charges are a fixed daily cost, so they can have a bigger impact when your energy use is low. That said, the right tariff depends on your kWh usage, your region and your meter type.
Low electricity users
If your electricity usage is modest, the standing charge can be a larger percentage of your bill — so a discount may reduce your total costs.
Smaller homes & flats
Studio flats, 1–2 bed homes, and single-occupancy properties often prioritise lower fixed charges and simpler billing.
People away from home often
If you travel, work away, or split time between properties, a lower daily cost can help reduce “paying for nothing”.
Dual fuel households
You may pay two standing charges (gas + electricity). A discount on either can help — but compare the combined total.
Budget-focused switchers
If you want stable costs, it can help to choose tariffs that keep fixed charges sensible and avoid surprise increases.
Smart meter households
Some innovative tariffs require smart meters. You can still compare standing charge levels — and see the unit-rate trade-offs clearly.
How standing charges work in the UK (and what “discounted” really means)
Your energy bill is usually made up of:
1) Unit rate (p/kWh)
This is what you pay for the energy you use. It’s multiplied by your consumption (kWh).
2) Standing charge (p/day)
This is a fixed daily cost that helps cover network costs, metering, and the costs of supplying energy to your home.
Why standing charges vary
- Region: Charges differ across England, Scotland and Wales depending on local network costs.
- Fuel type: Gas and electricity have separate standing charges.
- Payment method and tariff: Some deals differ for direct debit vs other payment methods.
- Meter type: Standard, smart, prepayment, Economy 7/10 (where applicable) can affect pricing.
The key comparison rule
A lower standing charge is only a win if the unit rate (and any conditions) don’t increase your overall spend. Always compare the estimated annual cost for your usage.
How EnergyPlus helps you compare properly
- Enter your postcode and contact details in the form at Compare & get quotes.
- We compare whole-of-market home tariffs and highlight options that may reduce fixed daily costs.
- You review the quotes, including unit rate and standing charge, and choose what fits your household.
- If you switch, your new supplier manages the process — no interruption to your supply.
Costs & examples: how standing charge discounts can affect your bill
These examples are illustrative only (rates vary by supplier, region and time). The point is to show why you should compare total cost rather than focusing only on the standing charge.
| Example | Standing charge | Unit rate | Best suited to | What to watch |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lower standing charge, slightly higher unit rate | Lower | Higher | Low usage homes | High users may pay more overall |
| Standard standing charge, lower unit rate | Typical | Lower | Medium/high usage homes | Fixed daily cost still adds up over a year |
| Time-of-use tariff (smart meter) | Varies | Cheaper off-peak, higher peak | Shiftable usage (e.g., EV charging at home) | Peak usage can increase costs |
| Introductory standing charge discount | Discounted for a period | May be average or higher | Short-term savings seekers | What happens when the offer ends |
A simple way to sense-check a tariff
Estimate your annual kWh usage, then compare: (unit rate × kWh) + (standing charge × 365). If you don’t know your usage, your current bill or online account usually shows it.
Two standing charges can matter
Dual fuel households pay a daily standing charge for both gas and electricity. A small reduction on each can add up — but only if unit rates stay competitive.
Eligibility, meters & regional considerations
Most UK households can switch energy tariffs, but standing charge levels and available deals can vary. Here’s what typically affects your options.
Your postcode region
Network costs differ by region, so standing charges can be higher or lower depending on where you live.
Meter type
Smart meters can unlock more tariff types. Prepayment and multi-rate meters can have different pricing structures.
Tariff terms
Check exit fees, discounts that end, and whether prices are fixed or variable. A discounted standing charge may be temporary.
If you’re on a prepayment meter
You can still compare. Some suppliers offer competitive prepayment options, but availability and pricing can differ. If you’re unsure what meter you have, start the comparison anyway and we’ll help you identify it during the quote process.
Common mistakes when chasing a lower standing charge
Mistake: comparing standing charge only
A tariff with a low daily charge can still be expensive if the unit rate is higher. Always compare estimated annual cost for your usage.
Mistake: ignoring tariff conditions
Look out for time-limited discounts, exit fees, and requirements (like smart meters for time-of-use tariffs).
Mistake: using the wrong usage assumptions
If your kWh estimate is off, you might choose the wrong tariff. Use your last 12 months’ usage if possible.
Mistake: forgetting dual fuel adds two standing charges
Assess gas and electricity together. A good electricity deal might be offset by an expensive gas standing charge (or vice versa).
FAQs: discounted standing charge energy tariffs
Can I get an energy tariff with no standing charge in the UK?
True “no standing charge” tariffs are uncommon, and availability varies. More often, you’ll see a lower standing charge paired with a higher unit rate. The right choice depends on your usage — compare the total cost rather than the headline.
Are standing charges the same everywhere in the UK?
No. Standing charges vary by region and can differ between suppliers and tariffs. Your postcode helps determine which prices apply to your home.
Will a discounted standing charge always save me money?
Not always. A lower standing charge can be offset by a higher unit rate or by terms that change later. Use a whole-of-market comparison so you can see estimated annual costs based on your usage.
Do I need a smart meter for these tariffs?
Not for every tariff. Some discounted standing charge deals are standard tariffs, while others (such as time-of-use) typically require a smart meter. If you’re not sure, complete the form and we’ll match quotes to your setup.
How long does it take to switch energy supplier?
Switching is usually straightforward and your supply won’t be interrupted. Exact timelines can vary, but your new supplier handles the process and keeps you informed.
Can I switch if I’m in debt to my current supplier?
It depends on circumstances and supplier rules. If you have concerns, still start with the comparison — we can explain likely options based on your situation.
Social proof: what people value when switching
Every household is different, but customers consistently look for clarity on the full cost — especially when comparing tariffs that advertise a lower standing charge.
“The comparison made it clear that the cheapest standing charge wasn’t the cheapest bill. Seeing the full estimate helped me choose confidently.”
“I wanted lower fixed costs because I’m away a lot. The quotes showed which tariffs actually reduced the annual total.”
“Helpful explanations on standing charges and unit rates. The form took minutes and I understood what I was choosing.”
Ready to cut fixed daily costs?
Compare UK home energy tariffs with discounted standing charges — and confirm the best deal by total yearly cost.
- Whole-of-market home energy comparison
- Clear breakdown of unit rate vs standing charge
- Start in minutes with your postcode
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