How to switch to a cheaper prepayment meter tariff in the UK
Compare whole-of-market prepayment meter tariffs and see whether a cheaper deal is available for your home. Switching is usually straightforward, even if you top up with a key/card, app, or at PayPoint/Post Office.
- Whole-of-market comparison for UK homes
- Check unit rates, standing charges and payment options
- Get a quick switching plan tailored to your meter type
- Support if you’re on a smart prepay meter or traditional key/card
EnergyPlus is a UK comparison service. Availability varies by postcode, meter type and supplier. No obligation.
Compare cheaper prepayment meter tariffs (UK homes)
If you’re on a prepayment meter (PPM), you can still switch energy supplier or tariff in many cases. The key is matching the deal to your meter type (smart prepay vs traditional key/card) and comparing the full cost: unit rate, standing charge and any top-up/payment method differences.
Use the form to request a whole-of-market comparison from EnergyPlus. We’ll use your details to find available options for your postcode and help you understand the next best step—whether that’s switching supplier, changing payment method, or upgrading your meter.
Before you start (2-minute check)
- Know your meter type: smart prepay (app/in-home display) or key/card.
- Have a recent top-up receipt or note your current supplier and tariff name (if available).
- Check if you have debt on the meter (you may still be able to switch).
Get your prepay comparison
Fill in the form and we’ll match you with available tariffs for your home.
Tip: If you’re currently topping up at a shop, ask about switching to smart prepay (where available). It can make it easier to track usage and top up, and may widen your tariff options.
Looking for more ways to cut bills? See also: EnergyPlus home energy comparison.
Can you switch prepayment meter tariffs in the UK?
Usually yes, if:
- You have a working prepayment meter (smart or key/card).
- Your supply address and meter are registered correctly.
- You pass basic checks for the new supplier’s prepay offering.
- Any existing meter debt is within limits for transfer (where supported).
You may need extra help if:
- You have a debt repayment set on the meter (still possible in many cases).
- Your meter is restricted hours (e.g., some legacy setups).
- You’re in a complex setup like Economy 7 with a specific meter configuration.
- You’re in the middle of a move-in or have an incorrect meter serial number on record.
Good to know: Prepayment customers are covered by Ofgem protections and price cap rules (where applicable). A “cheaper” tariff means a lower overall cost for your typical usage—not just a headline unit rate.
Why switching your prepay tariff can reduce costs
Lower unit rates
Even small differences in pence per kWh can add up—especially if your home uses more energy in winter.
Better standing charges
Standing charges vary by region and supplier. Comparing them properly can make a bigger difference than expected.
More convenient top-ups
Smart prepay can allow app/online top-ups (where available), making it easier to stay in control and avoid emergency credit.
Clearer budgeting
Seeing daily/weekly usage helps you budget and spot sudden spikes from appliances or heating.
Potential meter upgrades
Some households can move from key/card to smart prepay, which may widen tariff options.
Support if you’re in debt
If your meter has a debt setting, we can help you understand switching routes and what to ask suppliers.
Step-by-step: how to switch to a cheaper prepayment tariff
-
Confirm your meter type and payment method.
Check if you have a smart prepayment meter (often topped up online/app) or a traditional key/card meter (topped up in store). If you have Economy 7, note whether you have day/night rates. -
Find your current prices.
Look at your top-up receipt, in-home display, or supplier account for your unit rate (p/kWh) and standing charge (p/day). If you can’t find them, we can still compare using your postcode and meter setup. -
Compare whole-of-market options for your postcode.
Use the form in Compare & switch. We’ll identify suitable prepay tariffs, including whether a supplier requires a smart meter for certain deals. -
Choose the best-value tariff (not just the lowest unit rate).
The “cheapest” option depends on your usage. A slightly higher unit rate can still win overall if the standing charge is lower in your region. -
Complete the switch.
If you’re moving from one prepay supplier to another, the new supplier will guide you on how your top-up method changes (e.g., new key/card, app top-up, or updated PayPoint barcode). -
Top up as normal and monitor your balance.
Keep an eye on credit during the changeover. If you rely on emergency credit, make a note of how it works with the new supplier/meter.
Will switching affect supply?
No—switching supplier should not interrupt your gas or electricity supply. Your meter continues to work; you’re simply changing who you buy energy from and the tariff you’re on.
What to compare on a prepayment meter tariff
Prepayment tariffs can look similar on the surface. To find genuine savings, compare the full picture below.
| What to check | Why it matters | Where to find it |
|---|---|---|
| Unit rate (p/kWh) | The cost of each unit of electricity/gas you use. Small differences add up. | Top-up receipt, supplier app/account, tariff info. |
| Standing charge (p/day) | A fixed daily cost; varies by region and fuel type. | Supplier tariff details, welcome pack, app/account. |
| Meter type requirements | Some prepay offers are smart-meter only. | Supplier eligibility criteria; we’ll check during comparison. |
| Economy 7 / time-of-use rates | If you have night storage heating or charge devices overnight, day/night rates matter. | Meter display, supplier info, tariff label. |
| Debt repayment settings | Debt can affect switching routes, but doesn’t always block it. | Meter screen, receipts, or supplier support. |
Prepay vs direct debit: should you change payment method?
Sometimes the biggest saving comes from moving to a credit meter and paying by direct debit, if you’re eligible. If you prefer prepay for budgeting, we’ll focus on the best-value prepay options available for your home.
Regional prices vary
Standing charges and unit rates can differ across Great Britain due to network costs. That’s why postcode-based comparison is essential.
Common mistakes when switching prepayment tariffs
Comparing only unit rates
Standing charges can swing the total cost, especially for lower-usage homes.
Not checking meter compatibility
Some suppliers require a smart meter for specific prepay tariffs or features.
Forgetting about debt settings
If your meter deducts weekly debt repayments, it’s important to discuss transfer options early.
Switching mid-top-up without a plan
Keep enough credit for the changeover period so you don’t need emergency credit unexpectedly.
Wrong Economy 7 assumptions
If you rarely use electricity overnight, an Economy 7 setup can cost more. Confirm your usage pattern.
Ignoring customer support quality
Prepay customers benefit from clear top-up support and easy access to help—especially for meter issues.
Prepayment meter switching FAQs
Can I switch energy supplier with a prepayment meter?
In many cases, yes. The options available depend on your postcode, meter type (smart vs key/card) and whether your meter has any debt set to repay. EnergyPlus can help you check what’s available.
Will I need a new key or card?
Sometimes. If you’re on a traditional prepay meter, the new supplier may issue a new key/card or provide instructions for updating the existing one. If you’re on smart prepay, top-ups may be via app/online.
How long does a prepay switch take?
Timescales vary. Some switches can be completed relatively quickly, while others take longer if there are meter or account checks. We’ll outline realistic next steps after your comparison.
Can I switch if I owe money on the meter?
Potentially. Some transfers allow debt to move with you (subject to limits and supplier rules). If switching supplier isn’t possible right now, we can still help you compare options like tariff changes, repayment settings, or meter upgrades.
Is it cheaper to move from prepay to direct debit?
It can be, depending on eligibility and supplier pricing. If you’d rather keep prepay for budgeting, we’ll focus on finding the best-value prepayment tariff available in your area.
Do I need my MPAN/MPRN?
Not always. If you have them, it can speed things up (MPAN for electricity, MPRN for gas). If you don’t, we can still start with your address and postcode.
Need urgent help with top-ups or supply?
If you’re at risk of running out of credit, contact your current supplier as soon as possible to discuss emergency credit or support options. For switching and comparisons, use the form above and we’ll help you find the best route.
Trust & reassurance
Whole-of-market approach
We focus on availability for your postcode and meter type, so you can compare options that are realistic for your home.
Clear, practical guidance
We explain what matters for prepay customers—standing charges, smart meter requirements and switching steps.
No obligation
Request a comparison first. You can decide what to do next once you’ve seen the options.
What customers say
“I didn’t realise standing charges differed so much in my area. The comparison made it easy to see what I’d actually pay.”
— UK homeowner, prepay electricity
Another experience
“We were on a key meter and wanted something simpler. The guidance on smart prepay options helped us choose confidently.”
— UK household, gas & electricity
Ready to see if you can get a cheaper prepayment tariff?
Submit your details for a whole-of-market comparison tailored to your postcode and meter type. We’ll help you understand the best available option and the simplest way to switch.
Energy comparison for home customers in the United Kingdom. Availability depends on supplier coverage and meter compatibility.
Quick checklist
- Postcode
- Supplier name (if you know it)
- Prepay type (smart / key / card)
- Any meter debt (optional but helpful)
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