Ofgem prepayment meter tariff rates UK this month
See what’s driving prepayment meter prices right now, how the Ofgem price cap affects what you pay, and compare whole-of-market deals to check if you could pay less for your home energy.
- Understand current Ofgem price cap rules for prepayment meters (PAYG)
- Know what unit rates and standing charges mean for your monthly costs
- Compare whole-of-market tariffs and switch online in minutes
- Get help if you’re on emergency credit or worried about topping up
EnergyPlus.co.uk is a whole-of-market comparison service for UK homes. Prices vary by region, meter type and payment method. Always check your supplier’s current rates before switching.
Check today’s prepayment meter costs against the whole market
If you’re on a prepayment meter (PAYG), your unit rate (pence per kWh) and standing charge (pence per day) set what you pay when you top up. Ofgem’s price cap influences the maximum level of typical charges for capped tariffs, but it does not mean every supplier’s prepay rates are identical — and deals change by region.
Use EnergyPlus to compare prepayment meter tariffs across the market for your home. We’ll show like-for-like costs based on your details so you can decide whether to stay put, move to a cheaper prepay tariff, or switch payment method where eligible.
What you’ll need (takes ~2 minutes)
- Your postcode (rates vary by electricity distribution region)
- Whether you have electricity, gas, or dual fuel on prepay
- Approx usage (or we can estimate typical consumption)
- Whether you have a smart prepayment meter or key/card meter
Why “this month” rates can change
Ofgem reviews the price cap periodically, and suppliers can also update tariffs (within rules). Your effective monthly cost will also shift with your usage, debt repayments, emergency credit use, and any friendly credit settings (where available on smart PAYG).
Why compare prepayment meter tariffs now?
Regional rates can differ
Electricity distribution regions affect standing charges and unit rates. Two homes on the same prepay tariff name can still pay different prices.
You may be eligible to change payment method
If you can switch from PAYG to Direct Debit (and your supplier agrees), you may access a wider set of tariffs. We’ll show what’s available based on your details.
Small p/kWh changes add up
On PAYG, a few pence difference in unit rates or a higher daily standing charge can noticeably change your weekly top-up needs.
Debt and emergency credit can mask the true rate
If you’re repaying debt via the meter, your top-ups may reduce faster than expected. Comparing helps separate tariff cost from repayment settings.
Smart PAYG can offer more control
Smart prepay can enable app top-ups and clearer usage tracking, which can help you manage costs (availability varies).
No guesswork
EnergyPlus shows estimated annual costs using your usage where possible, making it easier to compare fairly rather than relying on headline rates alone.
Ofgem prepayment tariff rates: what you’re actually looking at
When people search for “Ofgem prepayment meter tariff rates UK this month”, they usually want to know what they should be paying and whether their current prepay tariff is fair. In practice, your cost is the combination of:
Unit rate (p/kWh)
The price for each unit of energy you use. If you use more (heating, cooking, hot water), the unit rate matters more.
Standing charge (p/day)
A daily fixed cost that supports the network and metering. If you use less energy, standing charges have a bigger impact.
How the Ofgem price cap affects prepayment meters
Ofgem’s energy price cap sets limits on the charges suppliers can apply for default tariffs (including prepayment default tariffs). It’s not a cap on your total bill. Your bill depends on how much gas/electricity you use.
Important
- The cap level can differ by region and payment type (prepay vs Direct Debit vs standard credit).
- Not all tariffs are capped in the same way (for example, some fixed tariffs may price differently).
- Your supplier must show your unit rate and standing charge in your account, on statements, or at top-up points/app (smart PAYG).
Prepayment standing charges: why your meter can run down even when you don’t use much
On a prepayment meter, the standing charge is taken daily. If you don’t top up for a while, you may see credit reduce even with minimal usage. If you’re in emergency credit, the meter can also recover that amount after you top up, depending on your settings.
Quick glossary (PAYG)
How to compare and switch from a prepayment meter
- Enter your postcode and meter details to see accurate regional rates for prepay tariffs.
- Compare estimated annual costs (not just the headline unit rate) so standing charges are factored in.
- Check exit fees and tariff type (variable vs fixed). Your current supplier may show these in your account.
- Choose a tariff that fits how you top up (app, PayPoint/Payzone, key/card) and how you use energy.
- Switch — your supply continues as normal. If there’s any issue, you’re protected by supplier switching rules.
Can you switch if you have debt?
Sometimes. If you owe your current supplier, switching may depend on the amount owed and whether it can be transferred or managed. Start the comparison anyway — we’ll show available options and what to check.
Key/card vs smart prepay
Key/card meters often require physical top-ups. Smart prepay may allow remote top-ups and better visibility. Availability depends on your property and supplier.
What affects prepayment meter tariff rates in the UK?
Even under the Ofgem framework, your exact prepayment meter tariff rates can differ. The biggest drivers include:
Your region
Network costs vary across Great Britain. That’s why postcode matters when comparing Ofgem-capped rates.
Fuel type and tariff structure
Electricity-only, gas-only or dual fuel. Some homes have economy tariffs or complex setups that change pricing.
How you use energy
High usage homes feel unit rates more; low usage homes feel standing charges more. Comparing by estimated annual cost avoids surprises.
Tip: check your current rates in 60 seconds
Look for “Unit rate” and “Standing charge” in your supplier app/online account, on your statement, or on your top-up receipt. If you can’t find them, contact your supplier and ask for your current PAYG rates for gas and/or electricity.
Struggling to top up? What to do right now
If your prepayment meter is close to zero, you’re on emergency credit, or you’re worried about disconnection, take action immediately. The options below can help you stay safe and warm.
Contact your supplier and ask about support
- Ask if you’re eligible for a repayment plan or reduced debt deductions
- Check friendly credit settings (especially on smart PAYG)
- Ask about emergency credit and how it’s repaid
- If you’re vulnerable, ask about the Priority Services Register
Check grants and bill help
- If eligible, you may get support via benefits-linked schemes
- Some suppliers and charities offer hardship funds
- Your local council may have household support depending on your circumstances
Safety note
Never put yourself at risk of cold or unsafe heating. If you have medical equipment at home, young children, or health conditions, tell your supplier immediately and ask about additional support.
FAQs: Ofgem prepayment meter tariff rates
Are prepayment tariffs always more expensive than Direct Debit?
Not always, but Direct Debit often has more tariff options. The best way to know is to compare using your postcode and usage. If you can move off PAYG, you may see more choice.
Does the Ofgem price cap mean my rates can’t go above a certain amount?
The cap limits what suppliers can charge on certain default tariffs, expressed through unit rates and standing charges for typical usage. Your total spend still depends on how much energy you use and any meter debt arrangements.
Why do my top-ups disappear quickly even when I’m careful?
Common reasons include higher standing charges, higher unit rates, cold weather usage, debt deductions, and emergency credit recovery. Comparing estimated annual cost helps you see whether the tariff itself is competitive.
Can I switch supplier with a prepayment meter?
In many cases, yes. Eligibility depends on your meter type, supplier processes and whether there’s outstanding debt. If you’re unsure, run a comparison — it will highlight what’s available for your situation.
Is a smart prepayment meter cheaper?
Not automatically. Smart PAYG can make top-ups and usage tracking easier, which can help you manage costs, but the actual price depends on the tariff’s unit rates and standing charges.
What should I do before switching this month?
Check your current unit rates and standing charges, confirm whether you have any exit fees, and note any debt on the meter. Then compare whole-of-market tariffs using your postcode to see realistic costs.
Need a quick result? Jump back to Compare prepay tariffs and we’ll show your options based on your postcode and meter type.
Trusted comparisons for UK households
Whole-of-market view
Compare across a broad range of UK home energy tariffs, including options suitable for prepayment meters where available.
Clear, like-for-like costs
We focus on the numbers that matter — estimated annual cost, unit rates and standing charges — so you can make a confident decision.
Switching support
From meter type questions to payment method changes, we guide you through the key checks before you switch.
“I didn’t realise my standing charge was driving my top-ups. The comparison made it obvious what was cheaper for my area.”
UK household customer
“Quick to use and the results were clear. Helped me check my prepay options before I spoke to my supplier.”
UK household customer
Testimonials are indicative. Available tariffs and savings depend on your meter type, region, usage and eligibility.
Ready to see your prepayment meter rates compared?
Get a personalised view of this month’s options for your postcode — including unit rates, standing charges and estimated annual cost — and switch if it makes sense for your home.
EnergyPlus.co.uk provides a comparison service for UK domestic customers. Always confirm final prices and terms with the supplier before switching.
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