What is a single rate electricity tariff?

A single rate electricity tariff charges the same unit rate (pence per kWh) for electricity at any time of day. You also pay a daily standing charge. It’s often suitable if you don’t have high off-peak usage or you’re comparing against time-of-use tariffs like Economy 7.

How can I get a cheaper single rate tariff in the UK?

To get a cheaper single rate tariff, compare your current unit rate and standing charge against available deals, choose a tariff that matches your usage, and consider fixing your price if it suits your budget. If you have a smart meter, ensure your meter setup and tariff details are correct so you’re quoted accurately. You can also reduce costs by lowering consumption and avoiding unnecessary estimated bills by submitting regular readings (or using a smart meter).

What should I compare on a single rate tariff: unit rate or standing charge?

Compare both. The unit rate affects the cost of every kWh you use, while the standing charge is paid every day regardless of usage. A tariff with a low unit rate but high standing charge may not be cheaper overall—especially for low-usage households.

Is it better to switch to a fixed single rate tariff or stay on a variable tariff?

A fixed tariff can offer price certainty for a set period, which can help with budgeting. A variable tariff can move up or down with market changes and may suit you if you want flexibility. Check the total estimated annual cost, the fix end date, and any exit fees before deciding.

Can I switch from Economy 7 (or another time-of-use tariff) to a single rate tariff?

Yes, in most cases you can switch from Economy 7 or other time-of-use tariffs to a single rate tariff. If you have a traditional two-rate meter, you may need your supplier to update your meter configuration or replace it (for example, with a smart meter) so you’re billed correctly on a single rate.

Will having a smart meter help me access cheaper single rate tariffs?

A smart meter can make switching and billing easier because readings are automatic and more accurate. It can also help you understand your usage so you can pick the most cost-effective tariff. Availability of tariffs varies by supplier and region, but smart meters can reduce the friction of switching and avoid estimated bills.

Do I have to pay exit fees to switch single rate tariffs?

Sometimes. Exit fees are most common on fixed tariffs, but not all fixed deals have them. Check your tariff terms and your latest bill or online account. If you’re close to the end date of a fixed tariff, switching may be cheaper if it avoids or reduces exit fees.

How long does it take to switch electricity or gas tariffs in the UK?

Many switches complete within around 5 working days, though timing can vary depending on the supplier and any meter or account issues. You’ll continue to receive energy without interruption during the switch.

What details do I need to compare or switch to a cheaper tariff?

Have your postcode, current supplier and tariff name (if known), payment method, and typical usage (kWh) or recent bills. If you can, provide your meter type and MPAN (electricity) / MPRN (gas) for the most accurate quote.

Where can I compare Energy Plus single rate tariffs or get a quote?

You can explore options and request a quote directly from Energy Plus at https://www.energyplus.co.uk/. If you’re unsure which single rate tariff is best, use your recent bill and estimated annual usage to compare total annual cost, not just headline rates.

How to get a cheaper single rate tariff in the UK

Compare whole-of-market single rate energy tariffs for your home and switch with confidence. Tell us a few details and we’ll show options that could reduce your unit rate and standing charge.

See single rate tariffs across the UK market in minutes
Check unit rates (p/kWh) and daily standing charges side-by-side
Switch online with no paperwork headaches
Includes fixed & variable tariffs from a wide range of suppliers

Compare single rate tariffs See how to get cheaper

Free to use. Home energy comparison only. Prices vary by region, meter type and payment method.

Compare cheaper single rate tariffs for your home

A single rate (also called a flat rate) tariff charges the same unit rate for electricity all day, every day. If you’re on single rate already, the fastest way to get a cheaper deal is to compare the current whole-of-market options available in your region and check the combination of:

Unit rate (p/kWh) – what you pay per unit of energy
Standing charge (p/day) – a daily fixed cost
Tariff type – fixed vs variable
Exit fees – only apply on some fixed deals

EnergyPlus helps you compare UK home energy tariffs (whole-of-market) and switch online. If your current deal has ended, you may be on a more expensive variable tariff — comparing now can make a noticeable difference.

Tip: If you don’t have a recent bill, you can still start a comparison. Your postcode and meter details help estimate what’s available and show you the key rates to check.

Get your results

Postcode

Fuel

Electricity meter

Payment method

What will change my price?

By continuing you confirm you’re comparing for a UK home. We’ll use your details to provide quotes and contact you about your results.

What is a single rate tariff?

A single rate electricity tariff charges the same unit price for electricity regardless of the time of day. This differs from time-of-use tariffs such as Economy 7, where you pay different rates at different times (typically cheaper overnight and more expensive during the day).

Best for many households

If most of your usage is during daytime/evenings and you don’t run big appliances overnight, single rate is often simpler and more predictable.

Easy to compare

You only need to compare one electricity unit rate plus the standing charge (and gas rates if you’re dual fuel).

Not always cheapest

If you have storage heaters, an EV, or can shift heavy usage to off-peak times, a time-of-use tariff can sometimes work out cheaper.

How to get a cheaper single rate tariff (UK steps)

Cheaper single rate deals are usually found by comparing like-for-like pricing and switching at the right time. Follow these steps to avoid the common traps that make a tariff look cheap on paper but expensive in real life.

Check what you’re on right now (and whether you’ve rolled onto a variable tariff)
Look at your latest statement or online account for: tariff name, unit rate(s), standing charge, contract end date, and exit fees.
Confirm your meter type is single rate
If you have Economy 7 or another multi-rate setup, switching to single rate can change how you’re billed. If you’re unsure, start the comparison and we’ll help you identify options.
Compare the whole-of-market using your postcode
Prices vary across the UK due to regional networks. A tariff that looks cheap in one area can be more expensive in another.
Look beyond the headline price: balance unit rate and standing charge
Lower unit rate isn’t always best if the standing charge is higher. The right mix depends on how much energy you use.
Choose the right tariff type (fixed vs variable)
A fixed tariff gives price certainty for the term. A variable tariff can change, often with market conditions.
Switch and keep your account tidy
Submit meter readings if asked, keep your Direct Debit in check, and keep your welcome pack so you can set a reminder before the tariff ends.

When should you switch? In many cases you can arrange a switch shortly before your fixed tariff ends. If you’re already out of contract, comparing sooner can help you avoid paying a higher variable rate for longer than necessary.

Ready to see options? Use the comparison form and we’ll show available single rate tariffs for your postcode.

What affects the price of a single rate tariff?

If you’re trying to get a cheaper single rate tariff in the UK, it helps to know what suppliers price around. These factors can change the deals you’re offered and what you’ll pay.

Your region (distribution area)

Standing charges and unit rates can vary by area. That’s why your postcode is essential for accurate comparisons.

How you pay

Monthly Direct Debit often unlocks cheaper pricing than paying on receipt of bill or prepayment, depending on availability.

Your consumption

Low users may benefit from a lower standing charge. Higher users may prioritise a lower unit rate. Comparing both matters.

Meter type and property setup

Smart, standard, Economy 7 and prepay meters can have different tariff pools. If you’re switching meter type, check the implications first.

Quick check: what to compare on a single rate tariff
Item	Where to find it	Why it matters
Electricity unit rate (p/kWh)	Bill, tariff info, quote summary	Main driver of cost for medium/high usage homes
Standing charge (p/day)	Bill, tariff info, quote summary	Can outweigh savings if the unit rate is only slightly lower
Tariff type (fixed/variable)	Tariff name and terms	Affects price certainty and risk of changes
Exit fees (if fixed)	Tariff terms and conditions	Important if you think you may move home or switch again soon

Common mistakes when trying to get a cheaper single rate tariff

A “cheaper” tariff isn’t always cheaper once you factor in standing charges, meter type, and your usage. Avoid these frequent pitfalls to keep your costs down.

Only comparing the unit rate

A slightly lower p/kWh can be offset by a higher standing charge. Compare both, especially if your usage is low.

Not matching the meter/tariff

If you’re on Economy 7 but compare single rate deals without checking how you use electricity, you may pay more than expected.

Forgetting contract end dates

If you leave a fixed tariff early, exit fees may reduce or wipe out savings. Always check before switching.

Using old usage figures

If your household has changed, your “cheapest” option may change too. Update your estimate where possible.

Ignoring payment method differences

Some deals price differently for Direct Debit vs pay-on-receipt. Compare using the method you’ll actually use.

Waiting too long after a deal ends

Rolling onto a more expensive variable tariff can cost more over time. Set a reminder to compare before renewal.

If you’d like a quick check of what’s available for your address, go to Compare single rate tariffs.

FAQs: cheaper single rate tariffs in the UK

Is single rate always cheaper than Economy 7?

Not always. Economy 7 can be cheaper if you use a meaningful portion of electricity overnight (for example, storage heating or EV charging). If most usage happens during the day/evening, a cheaper single rate tariff may cost less overall.

What should I look at first: unit rate or standing charge?

Look at both. If you’re a lower user, a high standing charge can make a “cheap” unit rate poor value. If you’re a higher user, the unit rate often has a bigger impact. Comparing with your postcode and estimated usage gives the clearest view.

Can I switch from Economy 7 to single rate?

In many cases, yes, but it depends on your meter setup and supplier options. Switching tariff may be straightforward, but switching meter configuration can involve extra steps. If you’re unsure, start a comparison and check what’s available.

Do I need to give a meter reading to switch?

You may be asked for a reading to ensure accurate final billing with your current supplier and a correct opening balance with your new supplier. Smart meters can often submit readings automatically, but it’s still worth checking.

Will switching affect my supply?

Your energy supply stays on during a switch. The change is administrative (billing and tariff) rather than a physical interruption.

Can I get a cheaper single rate tariff on a prepayment meter?

Availability depends on your location and supplier offerings. Some households may find more options by moving to Direct Debit, but that isn’t right for everyone. Compare based on your current meter and payment method first.

What if I’m in debt with my current supplier?

Switching can be affected by debt status, especially for prepayment. Options may still be available depending on circumstances. If you’re unsure, compare first and review the switching requirements shown with your results.

Why households use EnergyPlus

When you’re looking for a cheaper single rate tariff, clarity matters. We focus on the numbers that drive your bill and make it easy to compare like-for-like.

“The comparison was straightforward and I could actually see the standing charge differences clearly. Switching was quick.”

Homeowner, Manchester

“I didn’t realise my fixed tariff had ended. Found a better single rate deal and moved over without any disruption.”

Tenant, Bristol

“Useful to compare electricity-only options for my flat. The results made it clear what I’d pay and why.”

Flat owner, Glasgow

Trust signals that matter Whole-of-market comparison • UK home energy focus • Clear rate breakdowns • Switch online

Ready to find a cheaper single rate tariff?

Use your postcode to compare whole-of-market UK home energy deals. Focus on the unit rate and standing charge that actually drive your bill.

Free comparison in minutes
See rates clearly before you switch
Switch online at a time that suits you

Start your comparison

Compare single rate tariffs Read FAQs

Already compared? Save this page and check again before your next renewal date.

Back to Guides & FAQs

Updated on 28 Dec 2025