Should I get a 2 year fixed energy tariff in the UK?
A 2-year fixed tariff can protect your household from price rises, but it isn’t always the cheapest option. Compare whole-of-market fixed deals against flexible tariffs to see what fits your budget, risk level and moving plans.
- Check if a 24-month fix beats (or tracks) the Ofgem Price Cap for your usage
- Understand exit fees, smart meter compatibility and what happens at renewal
- Find fixed deals for electricity, gas or dual fuel across UK suppliers
Home energy only. Whole-of-market comparison. No obligation — submitting the form helps us match you to suitable tariffs.
Compare 2-year fixed energy tariffs (UK) in minutes
If you’re asking “should I get a 2 year fixed energy tariff UK”, the best next step is a personalised comparison. A fixed tariff sets your unit rates (pence per kWh) and usually your standing charge for the term — which can help you plan your monthly spend.
EnergyPlus compares whole-of-market household tariffs, including 2-year fixed deals, shorter fixes and flexible options. We’ll show you what you could pay based on your postcode and typical usage — so you can decide with confidence.
What you’ll need
- Your postcode (to match regional electricity distribution charges)
- Whether you want dual fuel (gas + electricity) or single fuel
- Estimated usage (we can help if you don’t know it)
- Whether you pay by Direct Debit, prepayment or on receipt of bill
Tip: If your household is likely to move home within 24 months, consider tariffs with low (or no) exit fees, or choose a shorter fix.
Get your personalised comparison
Fill in your details and we’ll match you to suitable home energy tariffs, including 2-year fixed deals where available.
Quick guide: who typically benefits?
A 2-year fixed tariff can suit households who value budget certainty, have stable occupancy plans, and want protection if prices rise — but it can be less suitable if you expect to move or think prices may fall.
Is a 2-year fixed energy tariff right for you?
The decision comes down to certainty vs flexibility. With a 2-year fix, your rates are typically locked in for 24 months. That can be reassuring if you’re worried about future price increases. However, if market prices fall, you may pay more than a cheaper flexible or shorter fixed tariff.
A 2-year fix often makes sense if…
- You want predictable bills and prefer to avoid surprises
- You’ll likely stay in your home for 2+ years
- You can accept a higher rate today for longer-term certainty
- You’re happy to review again near the end of the term
You may prefer a shorter fix if…
- You expect to move, rent short-term, or change household size
- You want the option to switch quickly if prices fall
- You’re unsure about your future energy usage
- You want lower exit fees (often, not always)
A flexible tariff can be better if…
- You want to avoid long commitments
- You don’t want exit fees
- You’re comfortable with rates changing (often aligned with cap changes)
- You plan to switch quickly when a better deal appears
Good to know: “Fixed” usually refers to the unit rate and standing charge, not your monthly Direct Debit amount. Your monthly payments may still change if your supplier adjusts them to match your usage or account balance.
2-year fixed tariff: advantages and disadvantages
Pros
- Budget certainty: you know what your rates will be for the term
- Protection from rises: if prices go up, your rates stay the same
- Less admin: fewer switches compared with 6–12 month fixes
- Peace of mind: useful if your household needs stable costs
Cons
- Exit fees: leaving early can cost money (check per-fuel fees)
- Missed price drops: if prices fall, you may be stuck on higher rates
- Less flexibility: not ideal if you might move or change payment method
- Renewal risk: you still need to act near the end to avoid expensive roll-overs
What to compare (don’t just look at the headline)
- Unit rates for gas and electricity (p/kWh)
- Standing charges (p/day) — often a big driver of annual cost
- Exit fees and when they apply
- Payment type (Direct Debit, prepayment meter, etc.)
- Customer service and billing (important for long fixed terms)
How a 2-year fixed tariff works (UK)
A fixed tariff is a contract where your supplier agrees to charge fixed rates for a set period — here, 24 months. Your bill still depends on how much energy you use, but the rates per unit and daily standing charge are usually locked in.
- You switch: choose a 2-year fix and apply. Your new supplier typically manages the switch.
- Rates are set: unit rates and standing charges are fixed for the term (check the tariff info and T&Cs).
- Your bills vary with usage: higher winter usage means higher costs, even on a fixed tariff.
- You can usually leave early: but exit fees may apply until a certain date.
- End of term: you’ll be offered a new deal or moved to a default tariff if you do nothing.
Key terms to understand before you fix
| Term | What it means | Why it matters for a 2-year fix |
|---|---|---|
| Unit rate (p/kWh) | Price per unit of energy used | Fixed unit rates protect you if wholesale prices rise |
| Standing charge (p/day) | Daily charge to cover network costs and metering | A high standing charge can make a “cheap” unit rate less competitive |
| Exit fee | Charge for leaving the tariff early | Two-year deals often have higher/longer exit fees—important if you might move |
| Direct Debit review | Supplier adjusts your monthly amount | Your monthly payment can change even if the tariff is fixed |
| End-of-tariff / renewal | What happens when the fix ends | You’ll want to compare again to avoid landing on a pricier default option |
Smart meters: Most fixed tariffs work with smart meters, but tariff availability can vary by meter type (standard/eco7/smart) and region. Comparing by postcode helps ensure you’re viewing compatible options.
How the Ofgem Price Cap affects 2-year fixed tariffs
In Great Britain, many households on standard variable tariffs are influenced by the Ofgem Price Cap (it limits the maximum unit rates and standing charges suppliers can charge for default tariffs). It does not mean your bill is capped — usage still matters.
Why this matters when fixing for 2 years
- If the cap rises, a 2-year fix can look better over time
- If the cap falls, a 2-year fix may become relatively expensive
- Suppliers price fixed deals based on wholesale costs and risk — not just the cap
- Regional standing charges vary, so your postcode is essential for accurate comparisons
A simple decision checklist
- Compare annual cost for a 2-year fix vs flexible for your usage
- Check exit fees and your likelihood of moving
- Assess your risk tolerance: certainty vs the chance of future savings
- Consider support needs: choose a supplier with reliable billing if you value stability
If you’re unsure, comparing is the safest route: you’re not committing until you choose a tariff. Jump to Compare deals.
Exit fees, moving home, and common mistakes
Two-year fixed tariffs can be great for stability, but the details matter. These are the most common issues we see when households choose a 24-month fix without comparing properly.
1) Ignoring exit fees
Exit fees can apply per fuel (gas and electricity) and can be charged if you leave early. Always check the tariff information before switching — especially if you might move or want flexibility.
2) Comparing only the unit rate
Standing charges vary by region and can significantly affect your yearly cost. A tariff with a slightly higher unit rate but lower standing charge can still be cheaper overall.
3) Assuming “fixed” means “fixed bills”
Your monthly Direct Debit is an estimate and may be adjusted. “Fixed” usually means fixed rates, not fixed monthly payments.
Moving house on a 2-year fix
If you move, you may be able to take the tariff with you, but it depends on supplier availability at the new address, meter type, and internal policies.
- Ask if the tariff is portable to a new address
- Check how the supplier handles closing bills and credits
- Confirm whether exit fees are waived when moving (not always)
A safer way to decide
Compare a 2-year fix against a 12-month fix and a flexible tariff for the same postcode and usage. That shows the real trade-off between cost and certainty.
FAQs: 2-year fixed energy tariffs in the UK
Is a 2-year fixed tariff cheaper than a variable tariff?
Sometimes, but not always. A 2-year fix can cost more today because you’re paying for price protection. The only reliable way to know is to compare the estimated annual cost (including standing charges) for your postcode and usage.
Can I switch before the 2 years are up?
In most cases yes, but you may pay an exit fee. Exit fees can apply per fuel and may reduce nearer the end date, depending on the tariff. Always check the tariff information and terms before switching.
Does a fixed tariff protect me from the Ofgem Price Cap rising?
A fixed tariff locks your rates, so if default variable rates rise (often influenced by cap changes), your fixed rates generally stay the same. However, the cap affects default tariffs, not fixed contracts directly.
What happens when my 2-year fix ends?
Your supplier will usually contact you with renewal options. If you do nothing, you may be moved to another tariff (often a default variable tariff). It’s smart to compare again before the end date to keep costs competitive.
Are 2-year fixed tariffs available for prepayment meters?
Availability can be more limited for prepayment customers, and pricing can differ. That said, there may still be fixed options depending on your supplier and meter type. Comparing by postcode is the quickest way to see what’s available for you.
Is it better to fix for 1 year or 2 years?
A 1-year fix often offers more flexibility and may have lower exit fees, while a 2-year fix can offer longer protection from price rises. The “best” choice depends on the gap in cost today and how much you value certainty.
If you want a personalised answer to should I get a 2 year fixed energy tariff UK, use the form above — your results will reflect regional charges, payment type, and current market availability.
What households like about comparing with EnergyPlus
Switching energy can feel complicated — especially when you’re deciding between a 2-year fix and flexible options. Here’s what customers typically value when using a comparison service.
“I didn’t realise standing charges could vary so much. The comparison made it easy to see the real yearly cost.”
“I wanted certainty for budgeting. Seeing 1-year vs 2-year fixes side-by-side helped me decide.”
“Quick form, clear next steps. I felt confident I understood the exit fees before choosing.”
Trust indicators (what to look for when choosing a supplier)
- Transparent tariff information (unit rates, standing charges, exit fees)
- Clear billing and Direct Debit review process
- Support options that work for you (phone, email, online account)
- Smart meter and meter-type compatibility where relevant
Ready to decide? Compare 2-year fixed tariffs with whole-of-market results
Get a personalised view of available 2-year fixed, 1-year fixed and flexible home energy tariffs for your postcode — then choose what suits your household.
No jargon, no pressure. Compare using your postcode and usage — switch only if it’s right for you.
Fast checklist before you fix
- Compare total annual cost (not just unit rate)
- Check exit fees and moving plans
- Confirm payment type and meter compatibility
- Set a reminder for renewal
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