How to switch to an Ofgem tracker tariff in the UK
Compare whole-of-market tracker-style deals and see whether a tariff that moves with wholesale prices could suit your home. Switch online with EnergyPlus.co.uk in minutes.
- Check eligibility and your current exit fees
- Compare tracker and fixed options side-by-side
- Get a personalised quote for your postcode and usage
- Switch without disruption to your supply
EnergyPlus.co.uk is a whole-of-market comparison service for home energy. Switching is subject to availability and eligibility.
Compare Ofgem tracker-style tariffs for your home
If you’re searching for how to switch to an Ofgem tracker tariff in the UK, you’re typically weighing up one key question: do you want your unit rates to move up and down (often daily) rather than lock in a fixed price?
EnergyPlus.co.uk helps you compare whole-of-market home energy tariffs, including tracker-style options where available. We’ll also show fixed and variable deals so you can decide based on risk, budget, and flexibility.
Good to know: “Ofgem tracker tariff” is often used to describe tariffs that track an external reference (such as wholesale market indicators) with a margin, and remain within supplier rules and consumer protections. Exact pricing formulas vary by supplier.
What you’ll need to switch
- Postcode (to confirm regional rates)
- Address and current supplier name
- Rough annual usage (kWh) or your latest bill
- A quick check of whether you’re on a fixed deal with exit fees
Get tracker quotes (whole-of-market)
Fill in your details and we’ll show available tracker-style and alternative tariffs for your home.
Prefer to learn first? Jump to what a tracker tariff is or see pros and cons.
Why choose (or avoid) an Ofgem tracker tariff?
Tracker tariffs can be a strong fit for some households and a poor fit for others. Here’s how to think about it before you switch.
Potentially lower costs
If wholesale prices fall, tracker unit rates can fall too. Some households prefer this to paying a premium for certainty.
More transparency
Many trackers publish a clear formula (reference price plus margin). It can be easier to understand why your rate changed.
Flexibility
Trackers are often offered without long lock-ins (not always). This may help if you want the option to move again later.
Rates can rise quickly
If the market moves up, your unit rates can increase at the next pricing point. This is the main risk versus fixed deals.
Budgeting can be harder
With changing rates, monthly costs can vary. If you need predictable bills, a fixed tariff may be more comfortable.
Not always widely available
Tracker-style tariffs come and go. Availability can depend on supplier appetite and your meter type/location.
Tip: If you’re unsure, compare a tracker against a fixed deal using the same assumptions (usage, payment method, and region). That like-for-like view is the fastest way to decide.
What is an Ofgem tracker tariff (in plain English)?
A tracker tariff is a home energy tariff where the unit rate you pay for gas and/or electricity changes in line with a published reference price, typically linked to wholesale market movements. Some trackers update daily; others update weekly or monthly.
People often say “Ofgem tracker tariff” because they want a tariff that is regulated under Ofgem rules and supplied by a licensed supplier, with standard consumer protections. It doesn’t mean Ofgem sets your exact tracker rate day-to-day; rather, Ofgem regulates suppliers and the market framework.
Tracker vs fixed
Fixed tariffs keep unit rates the same for a set period (e.g., 12 months). You pay for certainty; you’re protected from short-term price rises.
Tracker vs standard variable
Standard variable tariffs can change, but not necessarily using a transparent formula. Trackers usually publish how they calculate the rate.
If you’re switching because you’ve got an EV charger at home or you use more electricity overnight, you may also want to compare time-of-use tariffs. For tracker switching, the key is whether you’re comfortable with rate volatility in exchange for potentially cheaper periods.
How an Ofgem tracker tariff works: what changes (and what doesn’t)
Before you switch, it helps to know which parts of your bill can move on a tracker tariff and which parts are usually stable.
| Bill component | Typically on a tracker | What to check before switching |
|---|---|---|
| Electricity unit rate (p/kWh) | Moves up/down in line with the tracker reference | Update frequency (daily/weekly/monthly), margin, any cap/floor |
| Gas unit rate (p/kWh) | If included, may track similarly | Whether it’s dual fuel or electricity-only |
| Standing charge (p/day) | Often fixed for a period, but can change on some tariffs | Standing charge amount, whether it can vary, and regional differences |
| Your supply | No physical change—energy still comes through the same wires/pipes | Any smart meter requirements or billing preferences |
| Switching time | Typically a few working days | Cooling-off rights and your preferred start date (where offered) |
Important: Always read the tariff information carefully—some tracker deals have specific terms (for example, how the reference price is calculated and when it’s updated).
Step-by-step: how to switch to an Ofgem tracker tariff
Switching is usually straightforward. The key is to do two checks first: your current tariff’s exit fees and your comfort level with prices changing.
- Check your current tariff end date and whether you have exit fees. If you’re within the last 49 days of a fixed deal, exit fees are commonly waived (supplier terms apply).
- Gather a recent bill (or your online account info). Note your electricity/gas usage (kWh) and your payment method.
- Compare tracker vs fixed for your postcode. Look at unit rates, standing charges, and how often the tracker updates.
- Review the tariff information. For trackers, confirm the reference price, margin, any cap/floor, and how you’ll be notified of changes.
- Apply to switch. Your new supplier handles the switch and informs your current supplier.
- Take a meter reading on switch day (if requested). This helps ensure your opening/closing bills are accurate.
- Monitor your rates for the first few weeks. If the tracker rises and it no longer suits you, compare again and consider switching to a fixed tariff (terms apply).
Will my supply be interrupted?
No—switching supplier doesn’t change the physical supply. You won’t be cut off because you switched.
How long does switching take?
In many cases it’s completed within a few working days, though timing can vary depending on supplier processes and meter details.
Costs, exit fees and what can affect your quote
1) Exit fees
If you’re on a fixed tariff, you may pay an exit fee to leave early. Check your online account, tariff information label, or latest bill. If you’re close to the end of your contract, fees may be waived.
2) Standing charges vary by region
Electricity standing charges and unit rates can differ across regions. That’s why postcode is essential for accurate comparisons.
3) Payment method and meter type
Some tariffs are available only for certain meter setups, or have different prices depending on how you pay (e.g., monthly Direct Debit).
Common mistake to avoid
Comparing tariffs using only the headline unit rate. A low unit rate can be offset by a high standing charge (or vice versa). Always compare the estimated annual cost for your usage.
Quick checklist before you switch
- Do you understand how often the tracker price updates?
- Is there any cap on how high the rate can go?
- Is the standing charge competitive in your region?
- Are you happy to monitor prices and switch again if needed?
FAQs about switching to a tracker tariff
Is a tracker tariff the same as the Ofgem price cap?
No. The Ofgem price cap applies to certain default/standard variable tariffs and limits what suppliers can charge per unit (within the cap framework). A tracker tariff follows its own published reference and margin. Always check the tariff details.
Can I switch to a tracker tariff with a smart meter?
Often, yes. Some suppliers prefer or require smart meters for certain products. If you don’t have one, you can still compare available options for your meter type.
Will I need to contact my current supplier?
Usually not. Your new supplier manages the switching process. You may want to contact your current supplier only to confirm exit fees or resolve any account issues.
Can I switch again if prices rise?
In many cases, yes—especially if your tariff has no exit fee. Check your specific terms. If you’re worried about volatility, compare a tracker against a fixed tariff at the same time.
Does switching affect my home EV charger?
No—your charger will work the same. The difference is what you pay per kWh (and standing charge). If you charge overnight, also consider time-of-use tariffs alongside tracker deals.
Is EnergyPlus.co.uk tied to one supplier?
No. We’re a comparison service that checks across the market for home energy tariffs, so you can see tracker-style deals where available alongside fixed and variable options.
Trusted switching support (whole-of-market)
“Clear comparison and no pressure. The tracker vs fixed breakdown made the decision simple.”
Homeowner, Greater Manchester
“Switching was straightforward and the quotes matched what I saw on my first bill.”
Homeowner, Kent
“Helpful reminders about exit fees and standing charges—exactly what I needed.”
Homeowner, West Midlands
What we focus on: accurate postcode-based pricing, clear tariff terms, and a smooth switch with no interruption to your supply.
Ready to switch to a tracker tariff (or compare a safer fixed)?
Submit the form to see tracker-style deals available for your postcode, plus fixed and variable alternatives—so you can choose with confidence.
- Whole-of-market home energy comparison
- Postcode-based pricing and clear tariff terms
- No supply interruption when you switch
Have your postcode and a recent bill handy for the most accurate comparison.
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