Should I fix my UK home energy tariff in 2026?
Compare fixed vs variable deals for your home in minutes. We’ll show you what matters in 2026 (prices, exit fees, and how long to fix) and help you switch to a tariff that fits your budget.
- Whole-of-market comparison for UK households (electricity, gas, or dual fuel)
- See fixed deals alongside variable options and tracker-style tariffs where available
- Find the right fix length: 12, 18, 24 months (and more)
- Get a personalised view based on your postcode and usage
UK home energy only. Switching depends on supplier availability and your meter type. We’ll always show exit fees and key terms before you proceed.
Compare fixed and variable home energy tariffs for 2026
If you’re asking “should I fix my UK home energy tariff in 2026?” you’re already doing the right thing: comparing. The best choice depends on your usage, your risk tolerance, and what’s available in your area.
EnergyPlus is a whole-of-market comparison service. We help UK households review fixed-rate tariffs (price certainty) alongside variable and other options available for your meter type.
Tip: If you don’t have your annual usage to hand, you can still start a comparison using your postcode and current supplier. You’ll be able to refine results when you find your latest bill.
What you’ll see in your results
- Estimated monthly cost based on your usage
- Unit rates (p/kWh) and standing charges (p/day)
- Tariff end date and contract length
- Exit fees (if any) and key terms
- Payment method options (e.g. Direct Debit) where applicable
Start your 2026 tariff comparison
Fill in a few details and we’ll show whole-of-market results for your home.
Important: UK energy prices can change. A fixed tariff can protect you from increases, but you may pay more if market prices fall. Always check the unit rates, standing charge, and any exit fees.
So, should you fix your home energy tariff in 2026?
There isn’t one “right” answer for every household. In 2026, fixing can be a sensible move if you value budget certainty and want protection from potential price rises. But remaining on a variable tariff can suit you if you prefer flexibility and want to benefit if prices drop.
Fixing in 2026 may be right for you if…
- You want a predictable bill for the next 12–24 months
- You’d struggle to absorb sudden price increases
- Your current deal is ending and you want to avoid a higher default rate
- You’re happy to commit for a set period (and accept possible exit fees)
Staying variable in 2026 may suit you if…
- You expect prices to fall and want your tariff to move down with them
- You want to switch again soon (e.g. moving home)
- You prefer fewer contractual restrictions
- You’re actively monitoring rates and happy to review regularly
A simple decision framework (60 seconds)
- Check your current tariff end date: if it’s ending soon, compare now.
- Compare like-for-like: look at unit rate + standing charge, not just the headline “monthly” figure.
- Pick your priority: price certainty (fix) vs flexibility (variable).
- Consider exit fees: only pay for a fix if you’ll likely keep it long enough.
Key benefits of fixing your tariff in 2026 (and the trade-offs)
A fixed tariff can be a strong choice for many UK homes in 2026—especially if you want to stabilise household outgoings. Here’s what you typically gain (and what to watch out for).
Budget certainty
Your unit rates and standing charges are typically locked for the contract term, helping you plan monthly spending.
Protection from rises
If wholesale prices increase, a fix can shield you from immediate increases (subject to your tariff terms).
Less time shopping around
Fixing can reduce the need to constantly monitor the market—useful if you want a “set and forget” approach.
Potential trade-off: exit fees
Many fixed deals include exit fees. If you leave early to switch, those fees can reduce or remove savings.
Potential trade-off: missed drops
If prices fall after you fix, your tariff won’t automatically reduce—unless your supplier offers a switch to a cheaper deal without penalty.
Better fit with your lifestyle
If you’re not planning to move and want predictable costs, fixing can align well with household plans.
Quick rule: Don’t fix “because everyone is”. Fix because the deal is competitive for your home and the contract terms match your likely switching window.
Fixed vs variable tariffs in the UK: what’s the difference?
When comparing 2026 home energy deals, focus on how prices can change, whether you can leave without cost, and how the tariff behaves over time.
What to compare (beyond “monthly cost”)
Unit rate (p/kWh)
The price you pay per unit of gas or electricity. This drives most of your bill if you have medium or high usage.
Standing charge (p/day)
A daily cost to cover the fixed costs of supplying your home. It matters a lot for low-usage households.
How long should you fix your energy tariff for in 2026?
Fix length is often as important as whether you fix at all. A longer fix can offer longer certainty, while a shorter fix can give you a chance to review sooner.
12-month fix
- Good balance of certainty and flexibility
- Useful if you expect to review in a year
- Often easier to align with household plans
18–24 month fix
- More long-term stability
- May suit families who prioritise predictability
- Check exit fees carefully
Longer fixes (2+ years)
- Maximises certainty
- Can be restrictive if your circumstances change
- Best when the deal is strongly competitive
Planning to move in 2026? Consider a shorter fix or a flexible option. Some suppliers let you take a tariff with you, but it’s not guaranteed for every deal and address.
Exit fees, switching windows and common 2026 cost traps
Before you fix, check the terms that can affect your real-world costs. A “cheap” unit rate can be less attractive if the standing charge is higher or the exit fees are steep.
Exit fees
Exit fees (sometimes charged per fuel) may apply if you leave a fixed tariff early. Always weigh the fee against potential savings from switching.
- Check the fee amount and whether it’s per fuel
- Confirm if fees reduce near the end of the term
- Factor fees into your “break-even” point
Standing charge vs unit rate
Two tariffs can look similar on a monthly estimate but behave differently if your usage changes. Low-usage homes should be especially mindful of standing charges.
- High standing charge can reduce savings
- High unit rate can hurt higher-usage homes
- Compare both together, not in isolation
Common mistakes when fixing in 2026
Only looking at the headline monthly estimate
Your bill depends on usage. Always check the underlying rates and assumptions.
Fixing for too long “just in case”
Long fixes can be great—but only if the deal is competitive and you’re likely to keep it.
Not checking meter/tariff compatibility
Your options can vary by meter type (including smart meters). Compare using accurate details where possible.
Regional and household factors that affect 2026 energy prices
Tariff pricing varies across Great Britain due to regional electricity distribution areas, and your household set-up can also change what’s available and how much you’ll pay.
Where you live (postcode)
- Regional standing charges and unit rates can differ
- Some tariffs are limited by region
- Your network costs can influence electricity pricing
Your home and usage profile
- Low-usage homes: standing charge matters more
- High-usage homes: unit rate matters more
- Electric heating / heat pumps: electricity rate sensitivity increases
Best next step: Run a comparison for your postcode to see the real options available for your home in 2026, then decide whether a fix offers value for your circumstances.
FAQs: fixing your UK home energy tariff in 2026
Is fixing always cheaper than a variable tariff?
No. A fixed deal buys certainty, not guaranteed savings. The cheaper option depends on current market pricing, your region, and your usage. Comparing unit rates and standing charges is the most reliable way to judge value.
When should I review my tariff for 2026?
If your fixed deal ends in the next couple of months, it’s a good time to compare. Leaving it too late can mean rolling onto a more expensive out-of-contract rate.
Can I switch if I have a smart meter?
In most cases, yes. Availability depends on your meter configuration and the tariffs suppliers offer in your area. Your comparison results will reflect what’s currently available for your set-up.
What if I’m in debt to my current supplier?
You may still be able to switch, but rules and supplier policies can apply. It’s worth comparing and checking options—especially if a new tariff could make your bills more manageable.
Will fixing stop my bill changing at all?
A fix generally stabilises the tariff rates, but your bill can still change if your usage changes (for example, colder weather, more home working, or adding appliances).
Is dual fuel always better value?
Not always. Sometimes separate suppliers can be cheaper. EnergyPlus lets you compare options so you can see whether dual fuel or separate tariffs are best for your home.
Still unsure? Jump back to the decision framework or compare tariffs now.
Why compare with EnergyPlus?
When you’re deciding whether to fix in 2026, trust and clarity matter. Our comparison experience is built to help UK households make confident choices without guesswork.
Whole-of-market results
Compare a broad range of home energy tariffs and filter by what matters: price, contract length, and features.
Transparent tariff details
We highlight unit rates, standing charges, and exit fees so you can compare like-for-like and avoid surprises.
Built for real households
Whether you’re a low-usage flat or a busy family home, our comparison journey helps you find a tariff that fits.
“Clear comparison and easy to understand rates.”
I finally understood the difference between standing charge and unit rate and chose a fix that suits our budget.
— UK homeowner, online comparison user
“The exit fee info saved me from a bad switch.”
I was about to fix for 2 years, but the exit fee would’ve been painful when we move. Went for 12 months instead.
— UK household, dual fuel customer
Trust indicator: We focus on clarity—showing key tariff terms in plain English so you can choose confidently.
Ready to decide whether to fix in 2026?
Compare whole-of-market home energy tariffs for your postcode. See fixed and variable options, plus key terms like exit fees, before you switch.
- Personalised prices based on your home
- Compare contract lengths and features
- Clear view of rates and standing charges
Start a comparison
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