Compare electricity-only tariffs in the UK (2026 guide)
A practical, UK-focused way to compare electricity-only deals in 2026 — including unit rates, standing charges, meter types, payment methods, exit fees and what to watch for before you switch.
- See what actually changes your bill (not just the headline unit rate)
- Works for credit, prepayment and smart meters (where available)
- Includes realistic examples, a decision checklist and our methodology
Estimates only. Tariffs, eligibility and prices vary by region, meter type and payment method. Always check the supplier’s tariff information label before switching.
Fast answer: how to compare electricity-only tariffs in 2026
To compare electricity-only tariffs fairly, you need to match like-for-like on region (your distribution area), meter type (single-rate, Economy 7, smart/prepayment), and payment method (Direct Debit, cash/cheque, prepayment). Then compare:
Key takeaways (what affects cost most)
- Standing charge can outweigh small unit-rate differences, especially for low users.
- Unit rate(s) matter more for high usage and for Economy 7 (day vs night split).
- Tariff type (fixed vs variable) changes risk: fixed gives price certainty for the term; variable can change with supplier pricing (and may track the price cap if on a default tariff).
- Exit fees can wipe out short-term gains if you switch again soon.
- Discounts and add-ons (bundles, rewards) should never hide higher ongoing rates.
Quick 60-second checklist
- 1) What meter do you have?
- Single-rate, Economy 7, smart, or prepayment. Your tariff options depend on this.
- 2) How do you pay?
- Direct Debit tariffs are often cheaper than cash/cheque or some prepayment tariffs.
- 3) How much electricity do you use?
- Use kWh from recent bills (ideally 12 months) to avoid seasonal bias.
- 4) Any constraints?
- Debt on the meter, move-in date, EV/heat pump plans, tenancy rules, or poor signal for smart meter functionality.
Important: The UK energy price cap (where it applies) limits the price of default tariffs (such as Standard Variable Tariffs) for typical use, not your total bill, and it doesn’t cap all fixed tariffs. Details and terminology can change, so always check the tariff information label and your personalised quote.
Compare electricity-only tariffs (and get a quote)
If you want an electricity-only deal, the safest way to compare is with your postcode, meter type and usage. Electricity rates vary by region (your local distribution network area) and can also vary by payment method.
What you’ll need (no digging through paperwork)
- Postcode (to match regional pricing)
- Estimated annual kWh (or last month/quarter if that’s all you have)
- Meter type: single-rate / Economy 7 / prepayment / smart
- Who’s responsible for bills: tenant or homeowner (both can usually switch if they pay the bill)
Prefer to browse first? Jump to what to compare for a clear breakdown, then come back when you’re ready.
Good to know: “Electricity-only” simply means you’re switching your electricity supply. Your gas supply (if you have it) stays as-is unless you choose to switch it separately.
Get your quote
Tell us a few details and we’ll help you compare suitable electricity-only tariffs. Fields marked optional can be left blank.
What to compare on electricity-only tariffs (UK, 2026)
Electricity-only comparisons can look simple, but small details change the outcome. Use this table as a quick decision aid, then the checklist underneath to match it to your home.
| What you compare | Why it matters | Who it impacts most | Red flags |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standing charge (p/day) | You pay it regardless of use, so it can dominate low-usage bills. | Low users, small flats, empty homes. | Very low unit rate paired with a high standing charge. |
| Unit rate (p/kWh) | The main driver of cost once you use more power. | High users, all-electric homes, EV charging. | “Intro” pricing that changes after a short period. |
| Single-rate vs Economy 7 | Economy 7 has day/night rates; savings depend on how much you can shift to night. | Storage heaters, EVs, night-heavy usage. | Economy 7 with high day rate and low night usage. |
| Payment method | Rates often differ for Direct Debit vs cash/cheque vs prepayment. | Anyone not paying by Direct Debit. | Quote assumes Direct Debit but you need prepayment. |
| Fixed vs variable | Fixed offers price certainty for the term; variable can change. | Households budgeting month-to-month. | High exit fees on a long fixed you may not keep. |
| Exit fees & term length | Leaving early may cost you; longer terms can reduce flexibility. | Renters, people likely to move. | Exit fees per fuel (electric-only still can have a fee). |
| Smart meter requirements | Some tariffs rely on smart readings (and occasionally half-hourly data). | Time-of-use tariff seekers; smart meter homes. | Tariff not available if smart meter can’t connect or you opt out of data sharing. |
Who electricity-only switching usually suits
- You’re happy with your gas supplier (or you don’t have gas).
- Your electricity price looks high compared with current deals in your region.
- You want to fix for budgeting reasons (and can accept the term/exit fees).
- You’ve recently moved in and want a tariff better than the standard “moved-in” rate.
Who should be extra cautious
- You’re on prepayment and switching options are limited in your area.
- You have Economy 7 but most of your use is during the day.
- You plan to move soon (tenancy end date, house sale) and a fixed tariff has exit fees.
- You have debt with your current supplier (you may need to clear it or use an approved debt transfer process).
Two realistic scenarios (with numbers)
These examples show how the “cheapest” tariff can change depending on usage and standing charge. They’re illustrative estimates using simplified maths:
- Annual cost estimate = (standing charge × 365) + (unit rate × annual kWh)
- All figures exclude any one-off credits/bonuses and assume rates stay constant for the year.
Scenario A: low usage flat (single-rate)
Assumption: 1,800 kWh/year, Direct Debit, single-rate meter.
| Example tariff | Standing charge | Unit rate | Estimated annual cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tariff 1 (low unit rate, higher standing) | 65p/day | 24p/kWh | £674.25 |
| Tariff 2 (slightly higher unit, lower standing) | 45p/day | 26p/kWh | £630.25 |
Here, the lower standing charge outweighs the higher unit rate because usage is modest.
Scenario B: higher usage home (single-rate)
Assumption: 4,500 kWh/year, Direct Debit, single-rate meter.
| Example tariff | Standing charge | Unit rate | Estimated annual cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tariff 1 (low unit rate, higher standing) | 65p/day | 24p/kWh | £1,322.25 |
| Tariff 2 (slightly higher unit, lower standing) | 45p/day | 26p/kWh | £1,332.25 |
With higher usage, the lower unit rate becomes more important and can overtake standing charge differences.
Caveat: Real quotes can include additional factors such as Economy 7 split rates, time-of-use pricing, regional variations, and supplier-specific terms. Use these examples to understand trade-offs, not to predict your exact bill.
Costs, exclusions and common pitfalls (electricity-only)
Most switching problems come from comparing the wrong tariff type for your meter, or overlooking a term in the small print. These are the things we see most often in the UK.
1) Standing charge surprises
A tariff can look cheap on unit rate but cost more overall. Always compare annual cost based on your kWh, not a single headline rate.
2) Economy 7 mismatch
If you can’t shift enough usage to night, Economy 7 can increase bills. Check how much of your use is at night before committing.
3) Payment method assumptions
Quotes commonly assume monthly Direct Debit. If you need prepayment or cash/cheque, confirm the specific rates for that method.
4) Exit fees and moving home
Fixed tariffs can include exit fees. If you may move, check whether fees apply if you switch early or can transfer the tariff.
5) Smart/timed tariffs restrictions
Some tariffs require a smart meter and may use half-hourly readings. Availability can depend on your meter setup and data settings.
6) Debt on your electricity account
If you owe money, switching may be limited until it’s cleared. In some cases, there are regulated processes for certain debt situations—ask before applying.
FAQs: electricity-only tariffs (UK)
1) Can I switch electricity supplier without switching gas?
Yes. Electricity and gas supplies can be switched separately. Your gas supply (if you have it) stays with your current supplier unless you choose to switch it too.
2) What’s the difference between a fixed and variable electricity-only tariff?
A fixed tariff typically keeps your unit rate and standing charge the same for a set term (e.g., 12 months), though other charges or government policy costs can change in some cases. A variable tariff can change its prices over time, often with notice. Always check the tariff terms and whether there are exit fees.
3) Does the energy price cap apply to electricity-only tariffs?
The Ofgem price cap applies to default tariffs (such as Standard Variable Tariffs) for customers in Great Britain, based on typical consumption and including standing charge. It does not cap every fixed deal, and it does not mean your total bill is capped. For the latest explanation, see Ofgem’s guidance.
4) I have a smart meter — will I get better electricity-only deals?
Sometimes. A smart meter can unlock certain tariffs (including some time-of-use options) and makes billing more accurate. But the best deal still depends on your region, usage pattern and whether the tariff suits your household (for example, whether you can use more electricity off-peak).
5) Can I switch if I’m on a prepayment meter?
Often yes, but choices can be more limited and may depend on your meter type, debt status and supplier acceptance criteria. If you’re on prepayment, make sure the comparison is explicitly for prepayment electricity (rates can differ from Direct Debit).
6) What is Economy 7 and when does it save money?
Economy 7 gives a cheaper night rate for a set number of hours and a higher day rate. It can save money if you can shift a meaningful portion of your usage to the night period (for example, storage heating, immersion heaters or EV charging). If most of your usage is daytime, it may cost more.
7) Will switching affect my electricity supply or require an engineer visit?
In most cases, switching supplier is administrative and your electricity supply continues as normal. You usually won’t need an engineer visit unless you’re changing meter type or arranging a meter exchange.
8) What if I’m moving home in 2026 — should I still fix an electricity-only tariff?
Possibly, but check the exit fees and whether the supplier allows you to move the tariff to your new address. If you expect to move soon, a shorter term or lower/no-exit-fee tariff can reduce risk.
If you’re struggling to pay, you may be eligible for support schemes or supplier help such as payment plans. Start with Citizens Advice for practical next steps.
Trust, methodology and sources
Page credentials
- Written by:
- EnergyPlus Editorial Team
- Reviewed by:
- Energy Specialist
- Last updated:
- February 2026
How we assess electricity-only tariffs (and limitations)
- Like-for-like matching: We compare tariffs only when the region, meter type (single-rate / Economy 7 / prepayment / smart) and payment method match the customer situation.
- Total cost focus: We prioritise estimated annual cost (standing charge + unit rate(s) × usage), not just a headline rate.
- Terms scrutiny: We check contract length, exit fees, price-change rules, and eligibility requirements (e.g., smart meter requirements).
- Real-world caveats: Exact pricing varies by supplier, region and time. Market availability changes frequently; this page explains the comparison method, not a promise of specific prices.
- Examples are illustrative: The scenarios on this page use simplified assumptions to show trade-offs. Your actual costs depend on your usage pattern, meter readings, and tariff terms.
Sources (UK)
- Ofgem: check if the energy price cap affects you
- Ofgem: switching information and policy
- Citizens Advice: energy supply and switching
- GOV.UK: energy (schemes, advice and services)
EnergyPlus aims to keep this guide current, but suppliers can change availability, pricing and criteria quickly. Always confirm details on the supplier’s tariff information label and your personal quote.
Ready to compare electricity-only tariffs for your postcode?
Get a personalised comparison based on your region, meter type and usage. No assumptions, no guesswork — just the details that change your bill.
Back to Guides & FAQs