What is a "free electricity evenings" tariff?

A free electricity evenings tariff is a UK energy plan where electricity used during a set evening window is billed at £0 per kWh (or treated as free), while usage outside that window is charged at the tariff’s standard (often higher) unit rate. It can be good value if you can shift high-usage activities—like washing, dishwashing or EV charging—into the free period. Compare your full day costs, not just the free hours.

Are free evening electricity deals actually cheaper overall?

They can be cheaper, but only if you use enough electricity during the free evening window to offset any higher unit rates (and any higher standing charge) at other times. The best way to check is to estimate how much of your daily usage you can reliably move into the free hours, then compare the total annual cost with a standard single-rate tariff.

Who benefits most from free electricity evenings tariffs?

Households that can shift electricity-heavy tasks into the evening window benefit most—such as EV owners (scheduled charging), homes with tumble dryers/dishwashers/washing machines, or families whose peak usage is after work. If most of your usage is daytime, a standard tariff may work out cheaper.

What appliances should I run during the free evening period?

To maximise savings, run high-consumption appliances in the free window where safe and practical—e.g., EV charging (with smart scheduling), washing machine, tumble dryer, dishwasher, immersion heater or batch cooking. Always follow manufacturer guidance and avoid running unattended appliances if you’re not comfortable doing so.

Do I need a smart meter for free evening electricity tariffs?

In most cases, yes. A smart meter records half-hourly usage so your supplier can apply the free evening rate accurately. If you don’t have one, you may need to get a smart meter installed before you can join (or fully benefit from) a free evenings tariff.

Is free electricity evenings the same as Economy 7 or a time-of-use tariff?

It’s a type of time-of-use pricing, but it’s not the same as Economy 7. Economy 7 typically offers a cheaper night rate for 7 hours, while free evenings tariffs provide a specific evening window where electricity is free (or zero-rated), with different prices at other times. Always check the exact hours and rates.

What should I check before switching to a free evenings tariff?

Check: (1) the exact free hours and whether weekends differ, (2) the standard peak/off-peak unit rates outside the free window, (3) the standing charge, (4) any exit fees or fixed-term commitment, (5) whether you need a smart meter, and (6) whether your usage pattern matches the free period.

Can I get free electricity evenings on a fixed tariff?

Some free evenings tariffs are fixed-term and others are variable. With a fixed tariff, the unit rates (outside the free window) and standing charge are typically fixed for the contract length, which can help budgeting. Always confirm the tariff type and any early exit fees before switching.

How do I find the best UK tariff with free electricity evenings for my home?

Start by estimating how much electricity you can shift into the free evening hours (EV charging, laundry, dishwashing). Then compare total costs—standing charge plus unit rates outside the free period—against standard tariffs. You can use Energy Plus to compare energy deals and identify whether a free evenings tariff is likely to reduce your annual bill based on your usage and postcode.

Where can I compare and switch tariffs on Energy Plus?

You can compare available energy tariffs and start a switch on Energy Plus here: https://www.energyplus.co.uk/. For more advice, browse the Guides & FAQs hub: https://www.energyplus.co.uk/guidesfaqs/.

Best UK tariffs with free electricity evenings (and how to choose)

Free-evening electricity deals can work well for households that can shift usage to a set window (often 7–10pm). This guide explains how these tariffs work in the UK, who they suit, typical catches, and how to compare them fairly.

What “free electricity evenings” really means (and what still costs you)
Eligibility: smart meter, region, payment method, EV/heat pump considerations
Two realistic cost scenarios to help you sanity-check a deal

Get my personalised tariff options How free-evening tariffs work

Information is UK-focused and based on typical supplier terms. Prices and availability vary by postcode, meter type and payment method.

Fast answer: are free-evening electricity tariffs “best” in the UK?

They can be best only if you can reliably shift enough electricity use into the free window (often 3 hours in the evening). In the UK, these tariffs usually come with higher day unit rates and/or a higher standing charge to balance the “free” hours.

Quick rule of thumb: If you can move 20–35% of your electricity into the free-evening window (dishwasher, washing machine, tumble dryer, EV charging, immersion heater on a timer), it may start to compete. If your usage is mostly daytime (WFH, electric cooking, kids home), it’s often not worth it.

Key takeaways (UK-specific)

Smart meter: most free-evening deals require a working smart meter in smart mode for half-hourly measurement.
Times vary: “evening” is a defined window (for example 7–10pm). It is not “from when you get home”.
Electricity only: the free window typically applies to electricity unit rates only; gas is billed as normal.
Not the same as Economy 7: free-evening tariffs are usually a special time-of-use deal; Economy 7/10 has discounted night rates (not free) and different timings.
Region & payment method matter: rates differ by distribution region, and some tariffs are online/direct debit only.

Compare free-evening options (whole of market)

Tell us a few details and we’ll show tariffs you’re likely eligible for, including time-of-use deals with free evening periods where available for your postcode and meter type.

Trust-led approach: We’ll highlight key terms (free hours, unit rates outside the window, standing charge, exit fees) so you can judge whether “free” actually works for your household.

How free electricity evenings tariffs work (UK)

A set window is discounted to £0/kWh (or very low): often a 3-hour evening period on specific days (e.g., weekends, or every day). Exact hours and eligible days vary by supplier and product.
Outside the window, you pay standard (often higher) rates: suppliers usually increase the peak/day unit rate to fund the free period.
Standing charge still applies: you typically pay the daily standing charge as normal, even during free hours.
Smart meter records usage by time: your usage is allocated to time bands. If your meter isn’t communicating properly, you may be moved to a different tariff or billed differently (supplier terms apply).

Important: “Free electricity evenings” does not mean your bill will be lower. It means some kWh are billed at £0 during a set window; your overall cost depends on how much you use at other times and the standing charge.

Get your options

We’ll use your postcode to check regional pricing, then show tariffs based on your meter and payment preferences.

First name

Surname

We’ll send your comparison summary and key tariff terms.

Phone (optional)

Only if you’d like a call-back to talk through the options.

Postcode

Used to check regional rates and availability.

By submitting, you confirm you’re happy for us to use your details to provide quotes and follow up about your results.

Tip: If you already have a smart meter, note whether it’s working in smart mode. If it’s in “dumb” mode, some time-of-use tariffs may be unavailable.

Compare: free-evening tariffs vs alternatives

Use this table to decide which tariff style matches your household. Exact names, hours and prices vary by supplier and region, so treat this as a decision guide rather than a price list.

Tariff type	Best for	Typical requirements	Common catch
Free electricity evenings (time-of-use)	Households that can shift a chunk of usage into a fixed evening window (laundry, dishwashing, EV top-up).	Smart meter; often Direct Debit; may be limited by region or supplier.	Higher rates outside the free hours; standing charge still applies.
EV tariffs (cheap overnight)	EV owners who charge mainly overnight.	Smart meter; may require EV proof or compatible charger/app (supplier-dependent).	Peak rates can be expensive; some deals only discount EV-charging circuits or controlled charging.
Economy 7 (two-rate)	Homes with storage heaters or significant overnight use.	Two-rate meter setup; timings vary by region.	Day rate can be much higher; not ideal if most use is daytime/evening.
Standard single-rate (fixed/variable)	Most households that don’t want to time-shift or can’t use appliances at set hours.	Any meter type; usually widest availability.	No “reward” for off-peak shifting; savings rely on overall unit rate/standing charge.

Decision checklist: who it suits (and who it doesn’t)

Usually suits you if…

You can run high-use appliances in the free window (with timers if needed).
You’re comfortable changing routines (e.g., dishwasher after dinner).
You have a smart meter that reliably sends readings.
Your peak cooking/heating isn’t heavily electric outside the free period.
You can monitor usage (supplier app, smart meter IHD, or statements).

Often not worth it if…

You’re out most evenings and can’t use the free window.
You work from home and use lots of electricity during the day.
You have electric heating/immersion running outside the free period (unless it can be scheduled).
Your property can’t have (or won’t get) a working smart meter.
You prefer predictable bills and don’t want time-of-use complexity.

Two realistic scenarios (with numbers)

These examples are illustrative only to help you spot when “free evenings” is likely to help. Your actual rates depend on supplier, region, meter type and payment method.

Scenario A: can shift a lot (likely to benefit)

Household: 2 adults, EV charging some evenings
Electricity use: 4,200 kWh/year
Shiftable into free window: 30% (1,260 kWh/year)
Assumed unit rates: Standard: 25p/kWh. Free-evening deal: 31p/kWh outside free window, 0p/kWh in window
Estimated comparison: Standard cost: 4,200×£0.25 = £1,050. Free-evening: (2,940×£0.31) + (1,260×£0) = £911.
Estimated difference: ~£139/year on unit charges (standing charges may change the result).

Why it works: enough kWh land in the free window to offset the higher rate the rest of the time.

Scenario B: can’t shift much (often worse)

Household: Family, cooking and laundry spread across the day
Electricity use: 3,100 kWh/year
Shiftable into free window: 10% (310 kWh/year)
Assumed unit rates: Standard: 25p/kWh. Free-evening deal: 31p/kWh outside free window, 0p/kWh in window
Estimated comparison: Standard cost: 3,100×£0.25 = £775. Free-evening: (2,790×£0.31) + (310×£0) = £865.
Estimated difference: ~£90/year more on unit charges (standing charges may further affect this).

Why it doesn’t: too little usage is moved into free hours, so the higher day/peak rate dominates.

Scenarios exclude standing charges and any gas usage. If a free-evening tariff has a higher standing charge than your current tariff, you’ll need more “free” kWh to break even.

Costs, exclusions and common pitfalls (read before switching)

1) Higher peak/day rates

Many deals recover the “free” period by increasing the unit rate outside the window. If your cooking, home working, or electric heating sits outside those hours, bills can rise.

2) Standing charge differences

Standing charges vary by supplier and region. A higher standing charge can wipe out the value of “free” hours, especially for low users and small flats.

3) Eligibility & meter constraints

Time-of-use billing generally needs a smart meter that can record half-hourly usage. Some properties (or occupants) may not be able to get one fitted quickly.

4) The “free” window can change

Suppliers define the free hours in the tariff terms. If they change future products or withdraw a tariff, you may need to pick a new tariff later.

5) Exit fees & fixed terms

Some fixed deals include exit fees if you leave early. Always check the tariff information label and key facts before you switch.

6) Appliance timing & noise

Running laundry/dishwasher late can be noisy. If you’re in a flat or have young children, the practical reality may limit how much you can shift.

What to check on the tariff before switching: (1) exact free hours and days, (2) unit rates outside the window, (3) standing charge, (4) exit fees, (5) smart meter requirement, (6) whether prices are fixed or variable.

FAQs: free electricity evenings tariffs (UK)

Do I need a smart meter?

Usually, yes. Free-evening tariffs are time-of-use products that rely on half-hourly (or time-banded) readings. Without a working smart meter, the supplier may not be able to bill the free window accurately.

Is the electricity truly free during the evening window?

The unit rate for eligible electricity use in that window may be set to 0p/kWh (or heavily discounted) but the standing charge still applies, and prices outside the window can be higher. Always assess total expected cost, not the headline.

Do these tariffs work with prepayment meters?

Sometimes, but availability is more limited. Many time-of-use deals are Direct Debit only. If you’re on prepay, it’s still worth checking—some suppliers support smart prepayment, but product availability varies by supplier and region.

What if I rent (tenant) rather than own?

If you pay the energy bills and can choose the supplier, you can usually switch. If you’re on a landlord-supplied or all-inclusive arrangement, you may not be able to. Smart meter installation may require permission depending on your tenancy terms.

Are free-evening tariffs good for heat pumps or electric heating?

It depends on when your system draws most power. Many heat pumps run across colder daytime and overnight periods, not just early evening. A free-evening window can help a little, but a different time-of-use tariff (or a strong single-rate) may fit better. We recommend comparing using your typical usage pattern if you have it.

Could I be worse off if I don’t change my behaviour?

Yes. If your routine stays the same, you may pay a higher unit rate for most of your electricity, with too little usage in the free window to compensate. That’s why we suggest checking your “shiftable” usage before switching.

How do I estimate my shiftable evening usage?

Start with the biggest controllable loads: tumble dryer, dishwasher, washing machine, immersion heater, and EV charging. Check appliance kWh (label/manual) and multiply by weekly runs. If you have a smart meter or supplier app with half-hourly data, look at the kWh between the free hours for a typical week.

Will my switch be protected by the Energy Price Cap?

The Ofgem price cap applies to default variable tariffs (and sets limits on unit rates/standing charges for those tariffs). Many time-of-use products are not the standard capped tariff structure. Always read the tariff’s key terms and whether it’s fixed or variable.

Trust, methodology and sources

Page ownership

Written by: EnergyPlus Editorial Team
Reviewed by: Energy Specialist
Last updated: April 2026

How we assess “best” free-evening tariffs

We don’t label a single supplier as “best for everyone”. Instead, we assess whether a free-evening tariff is likely to be good value for your household by looking at:

Free window rules: exact hours, days, and whether the discount is truly 0p/kWh or just reduced.
Trade-offs: unit rates outside the window and standing charge (by region and payment method where available).
Eligibility: smart meter requirement, payment method, and any restrictions (e.g., EV/heat pump conditions where stated).
Consumer impact: whether typical households can realistically shift enough kWh without inconvenience or risk.

Limitations: Supplier terms can change and some tariffs are short-lived. Regional pricing can differ meaningfully. The scenarios on this page use simplified assumed unit rates to demonstrate the break-even logic; they are not a quote.

UK sources we rely on

Ofgem (UK energy regulator) — guidance on tariffs, smart meters and consumer protections.
Citizens Advice: Energy — independent consumer advice on bills, switching and complaints.
GOV.UK: Smart meters — overview of smart meter roll-out and how they work.

Editorial transparency

EnergyPlus aims to present whole-of-market comparisons for household energy where possible and to explain tariff mechanics in plain English. Where a deal’s value depends on behaviour (like time-shifting), we show the trade-offs and encourage you to compare using your own usage pattern.

Ready to see if free evenings actually suit your home?

Get a personalised shortlist based on your postcode and preferences, with the key terms surfaced upfront (free hours, rates outside the window, standing charge and exit fees).

Get my energy quote Review the comparison checklist

EnergyPlus provides comparisons for UK households. Availability and prices depend on supplier coverage, meter type and your location.

Back to Guides & FAQs

Updated on 8 Apr 2026