Energy tariffs with low unit rates in the UK this month
Compare whole-of-market home energy deals and find tariffs with lower electricity and gas unit rates for your postcode. See what’s available right now and switch online in minutes.
- Whole-of-market comparison (including fixed and variable tariffs)
- Focus on unit rate (p/kWh) and daily standing charge
- Personalised results using your usage and postcode
- No-obligation quotes and a simple switch process
Estimates shown depend on your region, meter type and usage. Always compare both unit rate and standing charge before switching.
Compare low unit rate energy tariffs for your home
If you’re searching for energy tariffs with low unit rates in the UK this month, the key is to compare deals available for your region and meter type. Unit rates (p/kWh) can vary by network area, payment method and whether you have a smart meter, traditional credit meter, or a prepayment meter.
EnergyPlus is a whole-of-market comparison service for home energy. Tell us a few details and we’ll show tariffs that may lower your costs, including options with competitive unit rates and fair standing charges.
Tip: A “low unit rate” isn’t always the cheapest overall. For many households, the best value comes from the right balance of unit rate and standing charge based on your usage.
What you’ll need to get accurate results
Get your low unit-rate comparison
Complete the form and we’ll match you with available UK home energy tariffs for your postcode.
Why “low unit rate” tariffs can reduce your bills
Your energy bill is broadly made up of two parts: a unit rate (what you pay per kWh you use) and a standing charge (a daily fixed amount). If you use a lot of energy (for example, a larger household or electric heating), a lower unit rate can make a noticeable difference. If you use less energy, a higher standing charge can outweigh a low unit rate.
Unit rate (p/kWh)
The price you pay for each kilowatt hour of electricity or gas you use. A small change in p/kWh can add up over a month.
Standing charge (p/day)
Covers network and fixed costs. It’s charged every day, even if you use no energy, so it matters a lot for low-usage homes.
Total cost for your usage
The “best tariff” is the one with the lowest expected annual cost for your home—based on both unit rate and standing charge.
How to find energy tariffs with low unit rates this month
The “lowest unit rate” in the UK isn’t the same for everyone because prices are affected by your region, meter and payment method. Use this checklist to narrow down genuinely good-value deals.
- Start with your postcode to see the correct regional pricing and available suppliers.
- Decide on fixed vs variable based on your appetite for price changes and how long you plan to stay in the property.
- Compare both electricity and gas (if you’re dual fuel) and check whether a dual-fuel deal is best overall.
- Look beyond the headline unit rate and review standing charges, exit fees, and any discounts.
- Match the tariff to your usage pattern (e.g., Economy 7 can help if most use is off-peak).
- Check key terms like contract length, payment method, and customer service ratings.
Practical guidance: If you can, use your latest bill to find your annual kWh usage. It’s the simplest way to identify tariffs that genuinely reduce your monthly cost.
Which tariff types can have low unit rates?
Fixed tariffs
Unit rates and standing charges are fixed for the contract term (often 12–24 months). These can be attractive if you want predictable costs.
- Good for budgeting
- May include exit fees
- Best compared against your likely usage
Variable (standard) tariffs
Prices can change. Many variable tariffs track the market and can rise or fall. They’re usually more flexible, often with no exit fees.
- Flexible switching
- Prices may change with the market
- Always check current unit rate and standing charge
Economy 7 / time-of-use
Typically offers a lower off-peak unit rate and a higher peak unit rate. It can be great for storage heaters or overnight EV charging.
- Works best if you can shift usage off-peak
- Check both day and night rates
- Off-peak hours vary by region and meter setup
Prepayment (PAYG)
Some suppliers offer competitive rates for prepay customers, particularly with smart prepay meters. Availability and rates vary.
- Compare like-for-like meter type
- Consider smart meter upgrades if available
- Check top-up methods and fees
What to compare when you’re chasing a low unit rate
To find the best-value tariff this month, compare the full price structure and contract terms—not just the headline p/kWh.
| Check | Why it matters | What to look for |
|---|---|---|
| Electricity unit rate | Directly affects the cost of every kWh you use. | Lower p/kWh for your payment method and meter type. |
| Gas unit rate | Often a major factor for homes with gas heating. | Compare against your typical winter usage, not just summer months. |
| Standing charge | A fixed daily cost that can offset a low unit rate. | Lower p/day if you’re a low-usage household. |
| Contract length | Longer fixes can protect you from price changes, but reduce flexibility. | A term that matches your plans (moving home, renting, etc.). |
| Exit fees | May apply if you switch away before the end of a fixed term. | Know the fee per fuel and the circumstances where it’s waived. |
| Payment method | Direct Debit vs receipt of bill vs prepayment can change prices. | Compare tariffs using the same payment method you’ll use. |
Reminder: Ofgem’s price cap affects typical standard variable tariffs, but fixed deals can be above or below it. Always compare total estimated cost for your household.
Regional pricing: why your neighbour might see different rates
Energy prices can differ across the UK due to regional network costs and how suppliers set tariffs by distribution region. That’s why “lowest unit rate this month” claims can be misleading unless they’re tied to a postcode.
Distribution region
Where your home sits in the electricity and gas network can influence standing charges and unit rates.
Meter type
Smart, traditional and prepayment tariffs can be priced differently, even with the same supplier.
Usage profile
A tariff with a great unit rate may still be poor value if the standing charge is high for your usage level.
Common mistakes when choosing a “low unit rate” tariff
1) Ignoring the standing charge
A tariff can advertise a low p/kWh but charge more per day. If you’re a low user (e.g., small flat, away from home often), standing charges can dominate your bill.
2) Comparing monthly Direct Debit only
Direct Debit is often an estimate and can be adjusted later. For a fair comparison, look at the tariff rates and the estimated annual cost for your kWh usage.
3) Picking the wrong time-of-use tariff
Economy 7 can be great, but only if enough of your consumption happens off-peak. If not, you may pay more overall.
4) Overlooking exit fees and end dates
A “cheap” fixed tariff may be less appealing if you’re likely to move or want the option to switch again soon. Always check exit fees and contract length.
FAQs: low unit rate energy tariffs (UK)
What is a unit rate in energy?
A unit rate is the price you pay for each kilowatt hour (kWh) of electricity or gas you use, shown in pence per kWh (p/kWh). It’s one of the two main parts of your bill, alongside the daily standing charge.
Is the lowest unit rate always the cheapest tariff?
Not always. Some tariffs offset a low unit rate with a higher standing charge. The best approach is to compare the estimated annual cost for your usage and then check the rates and terms.
Do unit rates change every month in the UK?
They can. Variable tariffs may change more frequently, while fixed tariffs lock prices for a set term. Market conditions and regional network costs can also influence what’s available “this month”.
Can I switch energy supplier if I’m in credit or debt?
Often yes, but it depends on your supplier and circumstances. If you have debt, your ability to switch may be affected (particularly with prepayment meters). You can still compare options—just be ready to discuss your situation if you proceed.
How long does switching usually take?
Switching is typically completed within a few working days, though timelines can vary. Your supply won’t be interrupted—only the company billing you changes.
Do I need a smart meter to access low unit rates?
Not always. Many tariffs are available for standard credit meters too. However, some time-of-use tariffs and some prepay offers may require a smart meter.
What UK households say about switching with EnergyPlus
We focus on clarity: unit rates, standing charges and the total estimated cost—so you can make a confident decision.
“The comparison was easy to understand. I could see the unit rate and standing charge clearly and chose a tariff that fit our usage.”
“I didn’t realise the standing charge mattered so much for my flat. Switching based on total cost made the decision straightforward.”
“Fast results for my postcode and no confusing jargon. I felt confident choosing a fixed deal.”
Ready to check today’s low unit-rate tariffs for your postcode?
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