Compare renewable electricity tariffs for UK homes

A practical, UK-specific guide to choosing a greener electricity tariff—what “renewable” really means, what to check in the T&Cs, and how to compare like-for-like.

  • See the key differences between green tariffs (REGOs, matching, bundles)
  • Compare on unit rates, standing charges, meter type and payment method
  • Get a quote in minutes—whole-of-market, for homes (not business)
Get your renewable electricity quote How to compare tariffs (checklist)

Estimates only. Availability and prices vary by postcode, meter type and payment method. Terms, exit fees and discounts can change.

Fast answer: how to compare renewable electricity tariffs in the UK

To compare renewable (often called “green”) electricity tariffs fairly, focus on total estimated annual cost for your postcode and meter type, then check how the supplier substantiates renewables (usually via REGOs) and whether there are exit fees, payment method restrictions, or smart meter requirements.

1) Compare like-for-like

Use the same usage, region and payment method. Standing charge differences can outweigh small unit-rate gaps.

2) Check what “renewable” means

Most tariffs use REGOs (certificates). Some go further with direct generator matching or extra investment.

3) Read the “small print”

Look for fixed-term length, exit fees, price-change rules (variable tariffs) and any smart meter or Direct Debit conditions.

Quick reality check: even on a renewable tariff, your home still draws from the national grid mix in real time. What changes is how your supplier buys and accounts for electricity (e.g., using renewable generation backed by certificates such as REGOs). Terms vary by supplier and tariff.

Compare renewable electricity tariffs (whole of market)

Tell us a few details and we’ll show tariffs available for your home and postcode. We’ll help you compare costs and the type of renewable backing.

What you’ll need: your postcode, how you pay (Direct Debit / pay on receipt of bill / prepayment), and whether you have a smart meter (if you’re not sure, that’s fine).

What counts as a “renewable electricity tariff” in the UK?

Suppliers commonly describe tariffs as renewable when they match electricity sales with renewable generation evidence—most often Renewable Energy Guarantees of Origin (REGOs). Some tariffs include additional environmental features (for example, funding new generation, or providing time-of-use incentives that support a greener grid).

REGO-backed renewable
Typically means the supplier has purchased certificates linked to renewable generation. Good for basic renewable matching, but doesn’t necessarily mean “additional” new build.
Direct matching / named generators
Some suppliers link your tariff to specific wind/solar/hydro generators and publish details. Still not a guarantee of physical electrons—but often clearer disclosure.
Time-of-use “smart” tariffs
Can help you shift use to cheaper/greener times, but rates can be more complex and may require a compatible smart meter.

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Switching is usually seamless: your electricity supply stays on. Your new supplier typically handles the switch, but timings vary and some meters/tariffs have extra steps.

How to compare renewable electricity tariffs (UK checklist)

Use this checklist before you choose. It’s designed for UK households and focuses on the details that most often change the true cost or suitability.

Step 1: Confirm your meter & usage type

  • Standard single-rate vs Economy 7 (two-rate) vs smart time-of-use.
  • Prepayment meters may have fewer tariff options (and different rates).
  • If you have solar export, check if the supplier offers a suitable export tariff separately.

Step 2: Compare the total cost, not just unit rate

  • Standing charges differ by region and can dominate if you use little electricity.
  • Check any introductory discounts and what happens after the offer period.
  • Use your own kWh where possible; otherwise, use a conservative estimate.

Step 3: Check the “renewable” evidence & claims

  • Does the supplier explain REGOs and how they match supply?
  • Is there transparency about generators or annual fuel mix disclosure?
  • Avoid assuming “100% renewable” means 100% additional new build—look for specifics.

Step 4: Terms that can catch you out

  • Exit fees on fixed tariffs (often per fuel, per account).
  • Price change rules on variable tariffs.
  • Smart tariff conditions: compatible meter, half-hourly settlement, app requirements.

Step 5: Practical fit for your household

  • If you’re home all day, a flat single-rate tariff may be simpler.
  • If you can shift use (EV charging, washing machine), time-of-use may suit you.
  • If you might move home soon, prefer no/low exit fee and shorter terms.

Step 6: Check service basics

  • Billing options (paperless vs paper), customer support channels.
  • How meter readings are handled (smart vs manual).
  • Support for vulnerable customers (Priority Services Register).

Who a renewable electricity tariff usually suits

  • You want clearer environmental claims and are happy to check the evidence.
  • You can compare based on total annual cost for your exact postcode.
  • You’re open to smart/time-of-use if it matches your lifestyle.

Who it may not suit (or needs extra checks)

  • You’re on prepayment and need the widest possible tariff availability.
  • You expect to move soon and the tariff has high exit fees.
  • You can’t meet smart tariff requirements (meter compatibility, app access, half-hourly data).

Renewable tariff types compared (what to look for)

Not all “green” tariffs are built the same. This table helps you ask the right questions while keeping cost and eligibility in view.

Tariff type How renewables are evidenced Best for Common catch Key checks
Fixed green tariff Usually REGOs; sometimes named generators Budgeting & rate certainty Exit fee if you switch early Exit fee amount, term length, Direct Debit requirement
Variable green tariff Usually REGOs Flexibility (often no exit fee) Rates can change with notice Price-change terms, how/when they notify you, standing charge
Smart time-of-use green tariff REGOs plus usage incentives that can support lower-carbon times EVs, storage heating, shiftable usage Complex rates; may need compatible smart meter Rate periods, peak prices, data sharing, meter eligibility
“Added impact” green tariff REGOs plus claimed investment/offset/green fund (varies) People prioritising environmental extras Claims can be vague; may cost more Clear explanation of impact, reporting, where funds go, independent assurance

Decision checklist (printable)

  • Do I know my meter type (single-rate / Economy 7 / smart TOU)?
  • Have I compared standing charge and unit rate for my region?
  • Is there an exit fee or minimum term?
  • Is it Direct Debit only?
  • What evidence is used for renewable claims (REGOs, generator matching)?
  • Do I understand when prices can change (variable / TOU)?

Two realistic scenarios (with worked estimates)

Important: these are simplified examples to show how comparisons work. Your rates depend on your postcode region, tariff availability, and when you use electricity.

Scenario A: Flat single-rate household (low-to-medium use)

  • Assumed annual use: 2,700 kWh
  • Tariff 1 (Renewable variable): unit 26p/kWh, standing charge 55p/day
  • Tariff 2 (Renewable fixed): unit 24p/kWh, standing charge 65p/day, exit fee £75

Estimated annual cost:

  • Tariff 1: (2,700 × £0.26) + (365 × £0.55) = £702 + £200.75 = £902.75
  • Tariff 2: (2,700 × £0.24) + (365 × £0.65) = £648 + £237.25 = £885.25

Here the fixed tariff looks ~£17.50/year cheaper on rates, but if you might switch before term end, the exit fee could outweigh that benefit.

Scenario B: EV owner considering a smart time-of-use tariff

  • Assumed annual use: 4,200 kWh
  • Assume 1,500 kWh can be shifted to off-peak (e.g., overnight EV charging)
  • Tariff 1 (Single-rate renewable): 25p/kWh, standing 55p/day
  • Tariff 2 (TOU renewable): peak 35p/kWh, off-peak 12p/kWh, standing 60p/day

Estimated annual cost:

  • Tariff 1: (4,200 × £0.25) + (365 × £0.55) = £1,050 + £200.75 = £1,250.75
  • Tariff 2 energy: (2,700 × £0.35) + (1,500 × £0.12) = £945 + £180 = £1,125
  • Tariff 2 standing: 365 × £0.60 = £219
  • Total Tariff 2: £1,344

Despite the cheap off-peak rate, this TOU example costs more because the peak rate is high and most usage stays at peak. The takeaway: time-of-use only works if you can shift enough kWh into the cheaper window.

Costs, exclusions and common pitfalls (UK)

These are the issues we see most often when households try to compare “renewable” tariffs quickly.

Standing charge surprises

A lower unit rate can be offset by a higher standing charge, especially for low-use homes or second properties.

Region & payment method limits

Tariffs can vary by postcode region. Some prices assume monthly Direct Debit and are higher for other payment methods.

Smart tariff eligibility

Time-of-use tariffs may require a compatible smart meter and consent for half-hourly readings. Not all meters qualify.

Pitfall: assuming “100% renewable” means your home is physically powered only by renewables at all times. In practice, the UK grid supplies a mix in real time; tariffs relate to purchasing, matching and certification.

Pitfall: ignoring exit fees on fixed tariffs. If you’re likely to move or re-switch, a cheaper rate can be outweighed by early-exit charges.

Pitfall: comparing tariffs using someone else’s usage pattern. Your costs depend on your kWh (and, for TOU, when you use it).

What might be excluded or separate

  • Gas: this guide focuses on electricity tariffs. Dual fuel pricing may differ from electricity-only.
  • Export payments: if you have solar panels, export tariffs are separate products and eligibility varies.
  • Bundles & add-ons: some “green” plans include optional subscriptions (e.g., EV add-ons). Always price the full package.
  • Prepayment: some green tariffs may not be offered on PAYG/prepay, or may be priced differently.

FAQs: renewable electricity tariffs in the UK

1) Are renewable electricity tariffs always more expensive?

Not always. Prices vary by supplier, region, meter type and payment method. The only reliable way to know is to compare total estimated annual cost for your postcode and usage. Always treat savings as estimated.

2) What are REGOs, and why do they matter?

REGOs (Renewable Energy Guarantees of Origin) are certificates issued for renewable electricity generated in the UK. Suppliers can use them to demonstrate renewable matching in their disclosure. They help evidence claims, but they don’t change the physical electricity delivered to your home.

3) If I choose a renewable tariff, will my power cut risk change?

No—your local network and the national grid still deliver electricity. Switching supplier doesn’t change the wires or reliability. Your bill, tariff terms and supplier customer service may change.

4) Can tenants switch to a renewable electricity tariff?

Often, yes—if you pay the energy bills and the supply account is in your name. If bills are included in rent or managed by a landlord, you may not be able to choose the supplier. Check your tenancy agreement or ask the bill payer.

5) Do I need a smart meter for a renewable tariff?

Not for most standard green tariffs. However, many time-of-use or app-based tariffs require a compatible smart meter and (in some cases) half-hourly readings. If you’re unsure, compare standard tariffs too.

6) How do I compare Economy 7 renewable tariffs?

Economy 7 has separate day and night unit rates. A tariff that looks cheap at night can still be expensive overall if your day rate is high and most usage happens during the day. Compare using your day/night split if you have it.

7) Are there exit fees on renewable electricity tariffs?

Sometimes. Exit fees are more common on fixed deals. Always check the tariff information label or terms, and consider whether you may move home or want to switch again before the end of the term.

8) Is “green gas” the same thing?

No. Electricity renewables are usually evidenced via renewable generation certificates. “Green gas” products can involve biomethane, carbon offsets or other mechanisms depending on the supplier. Treat gas claims separately and read the detail.

Trust, methodology and sources

Page governance

Reviewed by
Energy Specialist
Last updated
May 2026

How we assess this guide (and its limits)

This guide is written to help you compare renewable electricity tariffs in a way that reflects how UK tariffs are actually priced and sold.

  • Pricing focus: we prioritise total estimated annual cost (unit rate + standing charge) because it best reflects real bills.
  • Eligibility factors: we explicitly account for postcode region, meter type (single-rate / Economy 7 / smart TOU) and payment method (Direct Debit, on receipt, prepay).
  • Renewable claims: we describe common UK mechanisms (including REGOs) and encourage checking supplier disclosures and tariff documentation.
  • Limitations: example scenarios use simplified rates for illustration, not live market prices. Supplier terms and availability can change quickly.
  • No guarantees: savings, carbon impact and service experience vary; always verify the tariff information and contract summary before switching.

Recommended UK sources (external)

We link to third-party sources for verification and context. EnergyPlus is not responsible for external content.

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Updated on 19 May 2026