How to switch to a time-of-use energy tariff in the UK (2026)
Learn how time-of-use (TOU) tariffs work, whether you’re eligible, and how to switch without hassle. Compare whole-of-market options with EnergyPlus and get a tailored recommendation based on your home, meter and usage.
- Whole-of-market comparison for home energy (not just a single supplier)
- Check smart meter requirements, off-peak windows and exit fees
- See if TOU suits EV charging, heat pumps, storage heaters or flexible use
- Quick form — we’ll match you to tariffs available in your postcode
Home energy only. Switching is subject to eligibility, credit checks (if applicable) and tariff availability in your area. Figures are illustrative.
Compare time-of-use energy tariffs available at your address
Time-of-use tariffs charge different unit rates at different times of day. They can reduce bills if you can shift usage (for example, EV charging overnight), but they can cost more if most of your consumption lands in peak hours. EnergyPlus compares whole-of-market home energy options and helps you understand the trade-offs before you switch.
What we’ll check (in plain English)
- Your meter setup (smart meter / Economy 7 / multi-rate)
- TOU availability and off-peak windows in your area
- Any exit fees on your current tariff (so you can time the switch)
- Whether TOU is likely to suit your usage pattern
Before you start: 3 quick checks
- Do you have a smart meter? Many TOU tariffs require a working SMETS2 (or compatible) smart meter with half-hourly readings enabled.
- Can you shift usage? The biggest wins come from moving high-load activities to cheaper hours (EV charging, washing, tumble drying, immersion heater).
- Know your current contract end date. Switching mid-fix can trigger exit fees (not always — we’ll help you check).
Get TOU tariff matches
Fill in the form and we’ll show options that fit your postcode and household needs.
Tip: If you have an EV or heat pump, mention it when we contact you. TOU value often depends on those larger, shiftable loads.
Is a time-of-use tariff right for your home?
A TOU tariff can be a strong fit when you can move meaningful energy use into cheaper periods. It’s not automatically “the cheapest” — the key is whether your real household routine matches the rate structure.
Best suited to
- EV owners who can schedule overnight charging
- Homes with a heat pump (with smart controls)
- Households using appliances off-peak (dishwasher, washing, tumble dryer)
- People comfortable with smart meter billing and usage tracking
May not suit if
- You’re home all day and use most energy at peak times
- You can’t move high-load usage (or won’t change routines)
- You’re on a very competitive fixed tariff with exit fees
- Your smart meter isn’t working reliably
Quick rule of thumb
If you can shift 25–40% of electricity into cheaper hours, TOU is often worth a close look. If your usage is mostly evenings, check peak rates carefully before switching.
How time-of-use energy tariffs work (UK)
A time-of-use tariff sets different electricity unit prices depending on when you use energy. The day is split into rate periods (for example, off-peak overnight, standard daytime, and peak early evening). Your smart meter records half-hourly or interval usage so the supplier can bill each time band correctly.
What changes vs a standard tariff?
- Multiple unit rates instead of one flat rate
- Cheaper windows where heavy usage can cost less
- Higher peak rates that can increase costs if you can’t shift demand
- Meter/data requirements (often smart meter + half-hourly consent)
Common UK terms you’ll see
- Standing charge: daily fixed cost (still applies)
- Peak / off-peak: higher/lower rate periods
- Unit rate (p/kWh): what you pay per kWh in each period
- Half-hourly (HH) data: detailed usage data for billing/analysis
Example rate structure (illustrative only)
| Time band | Typical hours (varies by tariff) | What to run here | What to avoid |
|---|---|---|---|
| Off-peak | Late evening to early morning | EV charging, immersion heater, laundry, dishwasher | N/A (this is the “cheap” window) |
| Standard | Daytime | Normal use (cooking, working from home) | Long high-load cycles if possible |
| Peak | Often early evening | Low-load essentials | EV charging, tumble drying, electric heating boosts |
Exact hours and prices vary by supplier, region, and tariff version. Always check the tariff information label and your estimated annual cost based on your own usage pattern.
Step-by-step: how to switch to a time-of-use tariff (2026)
Switching is usually straightforward, but TOU tariffs have a few extra checks. Follow these steps to reduce the chance of delays, incorrect billing, or choosing a tariff that doesn’t match your routine.
- Confirm your meter setup. Check whether you have a smart meter (SMETS2 preferred) or a legacy multi-rate meter (e.g., Economy 7). If you’re unsure, we can help you identify it.
- Check your current tariff for exit fees and end date. Fixed deals sometimes have fees if you leave early. If you’re near the end date, you may want to schedule the switch for when the contract ends.
- Estimate your “shiftable” usage. Think in kWh, not just habits: EV charging, electric heating boosts, immersion heater, laundry. The more you can move off-peak, the better TOU tends to look.
- Compare whole-of-market TOU options. Not all suppliers offer TOU, and not all TOU tariffs are equal. Look at peak rates, off-peak window length, standing charge, and any special requirements.
- Choose your tariff and submit the switch. Provide accurate details (address, postcode, contact info). Your new supplier will manage the switch with your current supplier.
- Take an opening meter reading (if asked) and keep it. Even with smart meters, it’s good practice to note readings on switch day in case you need to query a bill.
- Set schedules for cheap windows. Use EV/app scheduling, smart plugs, appliance delay timers, or heat pump controls to shift demand. This is where savings are won or lost.
- Review after 4–8 weeks. Check bills and usage breakdown. If peak usage is higher than expected, we can help you reassess your plan or compare alternatives.
How long does a TOU switch take in the UK?
Many supplier switches complete within a few working days, but TOU-specific steps (meter configuration, data settings, account verification) can add time. If your smart meter needs enrolling or reconfiguration, it can take longer.
TOU tariff types in the UK (what you’re really choosing)
“Time-of-use” is an umbrella term. In 2026, you’ll typically see TOU tariffs fall into one of these patterns. Understanding the structure helps you compare like-for-like, especially when peak rates differ sharply.
2-rate (e.g., Economy 7 style)
Usually one day rate and one night rate. Good for storage heaters and those who can load overnight.
- Simple to understand
- Night window is fixed by meter configuration
- Day rate may be higher than standard tariffs
3+ rate (peak / standard / off-peak)
Adds a peak band (often early evening). Can benefit flexible users but punishes peak-heavy homes.
- Potentially stronger incentives to shift usage
- Peak window must suit your household schedule
- Best with automation (EV scheduling, timers)
Smart/EV-focused TOU
Designed around EV charging or flexible demand. Often requires a compatible smart meter and sometimes EV/app integration.
- Very cheap off-peak periods (tariff-dependent)
- May involve specific charging windows or rules
- Read the “fair usage” or eligibility notes
What to compare when choosing a TOU tariff
| Comparison factor | Why it matters | What to look for |
|---|---|---|
| Peak unit rate | Peak hours can make or break TOU costs | Is peak time when you cook/heat the home? |
| Off-peak window | A longer or better-timed window increases usable savings | Does it cover your EV charge time? |
| Standing charge | High standing charges reduce savings for low users | Compare daily cost across tariffs |
| Data/meter requirements | Some tariffs require half-hourly readings or specific meter types | Smart meter status, HH consent |
| Contract terms | Exit fees and fixed periods affect flexibility | Any exit fees? Price change clauses? |
Costs, savings and common mistakes when switching to TOU
Potential savings (what drives them)
- EV charging: shifting a large chunk of kWh off-peak can materially change annual cost
- Heating strategy: using smart controls to pre-heat or reduce peak boosts
- Automation: timers and schedules make savings consistent
- Usage awareness: monitoring peak usage prevents bill surprises
We’ll help you compare based on your likely usage pattern — not just a headline off-peak price.
Common mistakes (and how to avoid them)
- Choosing by off-peak rate alone and ignoring peak pricing
- Not checking standing charge (especially if you’re a low user)
- Assuming your meter is compatible without verifying smart meter status
- Forgetting exit fees on your current fixed tariff
- Not scheduling appliances so usage stays in peak by default
A realistic warning about TOU bills
If your home uses most electricity during peak windows (often early evening), a TOU tariff can increase costs. The goal is to match tariff design to behaviour — or use automation to change the timing of high-load usage.
Eligibility and practical requirements (UK homes)
Most households can switch supplier, but TOU tariffs can come with extra requirements. Use this checklist to avoid a failed application or ending up on the wrong meter configuration.
Smart meter status
Many TOU tariffs require a smart meter that can send readings reliably. If your meter is in “dumb mode”, you may need support to resolve it before switching.
Half-hourly readings
Some tariffs need half-hourly consumption data for accurate billing. You may be asked to consent to this as part of setup.
Property and usage fit
TOU works best when you can control when you use electricity. If your schedule is fixed, we’ll help you compare whether a fixed or standard variable tariff is better value.
Regional considerations
Rates and standing charges vary across Great Britain by region (and sometimes by network area). Always compare using your postcode so the estimate reflects your local pricing.
FAQs: switching to a time-of-use tariff in 2026
Do I need a smart meter for time-of-use tariffs?
Often, yes. Many TOU tariffs require a smart meter capable of recording and sending interval readings. Some two-rate tariffs can work on legacy multi-rate meters, but availability is more limited.
Will I lose supply during the switch?
In most cases, no. Switching supplier is an administrative process; your gas and electricity continue to flow. If any meter work is required, the supplier will tell you in advance.
Can I switch if I’m in debt to my current supplier?
It depends. Some debt situations restrict switching, while others allow it with an agreed repayment plan. We can outline your options once we know your circumstances.
What if I’m on Economy 7 now?
Economy 7 is a form of time-of-use. You may be able to switch to another two-rate or a more advanced multi-rate TOU tariff, but it’s important to check how the rate windows differ and whether your heating setup still suits it.
Will a TOU tariff affect my direct debit?
Your direct debit may change after the supplier reviews your estimated annual cost and usage pattern. If your peak usage is higher than expected, payments can increase. Monitoring early bills helps avoid surprises.
Can I switch back if TOU doesn’t work for me?
Usually, yes — but check contract length and any exit fees. If you choose a fixed TOU deal, you may pay a fee to leave early. If flexibility matters, consider tariff terms carefully.
Why households use EnergyPlus to compare and switch
Switching is easy when the tariff is simple. TOU tariffs are different — peak windows, meter requirements and usage patterns matter. Our goal is to help you choose what’s right for your home, not just what looks good in a headline rate.
“Clear explanation of peak vs off-peak”
“I was about to pick a TOU deal just for the cheap night rate. EnergyPlus helped me compare the peak rate and standing charge properly.”
Homeowner, West Midlands
“Matched to what’s available in my postcode”
“Some tariffs I saw elsewhere weren’t actually available for my area. The options I got here were accurate and easy to compare.”
Flat occupant, Greater Manchester
“Helped me plan EV charging times”
“I didn’t realise my peak window overlapped with when I plugged in. The advice on scheduling made the switch worthwhile.”
EV owner, South East
Trust and transparency
- Whole-of-market approach (availability varies by supplier and region)
- We focus on suitability — peak rates, standing charges and terms included
- Home energy guidance (not business tariffs)
Ready to switch to a time-of-use tariff?
Compare whole-of-market TOU options for your postcode and get a clear recommendation based on your meter type and household routine.
You’ll stay connected throughout. Switching is handled by the supplier; we help you choose the right option.
What you’ll need
- Your postcode
- Rough idea of when you use electricity most
- Smart meter details (if you know them)
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