Best low standing charge energy tariffs UK (this month)
A practical UK guide to finding tariffs with a lower standing charge (and avoiding the traps). Compare whole-of-market options by postcode, meter and payment type.
- See when a low standing charge actually saves money (with worked examples)
- Understand the trade-off: standing charge vs unit rate (and how to check your break-even)
- Get tailored results for your region, meter type and payment method
Standing charges and unit rates vary by region, meter type and payment method. Figures on this page are examples only and should be checked against your personalised quote.
Fast answer: what are the best low standing charge tariffs?
In the UK, the “best” low standing charge energy tariff is usually the one that reduces your total annual cost once you factor in the unit rate (the price per kWh). Low standing charge deals can look attractive, but they often come with a higher unit rate or tighter eligibility (region, meter type, payment method).
Quick rule of thumb: a low standing charge tends to suit low usage households (e.g., small flats, long periods away, or very efficient homes). If you use a lot of energy, a slightly higher standing charge can be cheaper overall if it comes with a much lower unit rate.
What “low” means
“Low” is relative. Standing charges vary by region, fuel (gas vs electricity) and meter type. Compare against your current tariff, not a national headline.
Where the savings come from
Savings come from the difference in daily standing charge minus any increase in unit rates. The break-even depends on how many kWh you use.
Best next step
Run a postcode-based comparison using your meter and payment method, then sort by estimated annual cost (not standing charge alone).
Key takeaways (UK)
- Standing charges are regulated differently by region and can’t be compared accurately without your postcode.
- Low standing charge tariffs may be electricity-only (useful if you don’t have gas or have heat pumps) or may penalise high usage via unit rates.
- Smart meters and payment method matter: some tariffs require a smart meter, Direct Debit, or online billing.
- Check the whole contract: exit fees, price protection, discount conditions, and any bundled add-ons.
Compare low standing charge tariffs by postcode
To show the most relevant low standing charge options, we need a few basics. This helps us filter by region, meter type and payment method—the biggest drivers of standing charge differences in the UK.
Tip: If you’re not sure about your meter type, check your latest bill/app for “credit”, “prepayment (PAYG)”, “Economy 7” (two rates), or “smart meter”. You can still get results if you choose “Not sure”.
What you’ll see in your results
- Estimated annual cost (based on what you tell us)
- Standing charge and unit rate details (gas and/or electricity)
- Tariff type (fixed/variable), term length, and exit fees (if any)
- Eligibility notes (smart meter, payment method, online-only)
Get your quote
Low standing charge vs “normal” tariffs: what to compare
A low standing charge is only one part of the price. Use the table below to compare tariffs quickly, then confirm the exact rates in your personalised results.
| Tariff style | Typical standing charge | Typical unit rate | Often best for | Watch-outs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Low standing charge | Lower than your region’s average | Sometimes higher | Low usage homes; second homes; some all-electric flats | Break-even can be higher; may require Direct Debit/smart meter |
| Low unit rate | Average or higher | Lower | High usage homes; families; EV charging (where suitable) | Higher standing charge can cancel out benefits for low use |
| Fixed price | Varies | Varies | People wanting price certainty for a term | May include exit fees; check what happens after the fixed term |
| Variable price | Varies | Varies | Flexibility; may suit short-term needs | Rates can change; “low standing charge” can be revised |
Low standing charge: who it suits
- You use less than average energy (small household, efficient home)
- You’re often away (second home, frequent travel)
- You want to reduce fixed daily costs (but accept unit-rate trade-offs)
- You can meet eligibility (often Direct Debit, online account, sometimes smart meter)
Who it may not suit
- High usage households (higher unit rates can outweigh the lower standing charge)
- Some prepayment customers (fewer low standing charge options)
- Homes with multi-rate needs (Economy 7 / heat pump tariffs) unless the structure is clearly beneficial
- Anyone who might need to leave early if a tariff has exit fees
Two realistic scenarios (with numbers)
These examples use simple assumptions to show how standing charge vs unit rate trade-offs work. Your actual rates vary by region, fuel, meter and supplier terms.
Scenario A: low electricity use flat (electricity-only)
- Usage assumption
- 1,800 kWh/year
- Tariff 1
- Low SC: 25p/day, 30p/kWh
- Tariff 2
- Higher SC: 55p/day, 27p/kWh
Estimated annual cost:
Tariff 1: (0.25×365)=£91.25 + (0.30×1,800)=£540 ? £631.25
Tariff 2: (0.55×365)=£200.75 + (0.27×1,800)=£486 ? £686.75
In this low-usage example, the lower standing charge wins even with a higher unit rate.
Scenario B: typical family home (electricity + gas)
- Elec usage
- 3,200 kWh/year
- Gas usage
- 12,000 kWh/year
- Tariff 1
- Low SC: Elec 25p/day, 30p/kWh; Gas 20p/day, 7.5p/kWh
- Tariff 2
- Higher SC: Elec 55p/day, 27p/kWh; Gas 32p/day, 7.0p/kWh
Estimated annual cost:
Tariff 1: Elec £91.25 + £960 = £1,051.25; Gas £73 + £900 = £973 ? £2,024.25
Tariff 2: Elec £200.75 + £864 = £1,064.75; Gas £116.80 + £840 = £956.80 ? £2,021.55
Here, the “low standing charge” option is not clearly cheaper overall; the unit rate differences narrow the gap.
How to estimate your break-even: work out the annual standing charge difference, then divide by the unit rate difference. If you use fewer kWh than the break-even, the low standing charge tariff may be cheaper (all else equal).
Costs, exclusions and common pitfalls (UK)
Low standing charge tariffs can be a good fit, but these are the most common reasons people end up paying more than expected.
1) Higher unit rates
The most common trade-off. A tariff can advertise a low standing charge but increase the p/kWh enough that average or high users pay more.
2) Eligibility limits
Some deals are restricted to Direct Debit, online-only, certain meter types (including smart meters), or specific regions.
3) Exit fees and term conditions
Fixed tariffs may include exit fees. Always check the amount and whether it applies per fuel (gas and electricity).
4) Multi-rate meters (Economy 7)
A “low standing charge” single-rate tariff might be a poor fit if you rely on off-peak rates. Compare the day/night unit rates carefully.
5) Prepayment pricing
PAYG tariffs can have different price structures and fewer promotional options. If you’re on prepayment, compare like-for-like and check support options.
6) “Add-ons” and bundles
Boiler cover or other bundles can obscure the real energy price. Make sure you’re comparing energy costs separately where possible.
Important: Standing charges fund parts of the energy system (networks, metering and policy costs). There is no guarantee a “low standing charge” tariff will stay the lowest over time, especially on variable deals.
FAQs: low standing charge energy tariffs (UK)
What is the standing charge and why do I pay it?
A standing charge is a daily fixed cost for supplying energy to your home. It contributes to costs like maintaining networks, metering and billing. You generally pay it even if you use zero energy on a given day.
Are standing charges the same across the UK?
No. Standing charges can vary by region (your electricity distribution area), as well as by fuel, payment method and meter type. That’s why postcode-based comparison is essential.
Can I get a zero standing charge tariff in the UK?
It’s uncommon. When available, a “zero standing charge” tariff usually compensates with higher unit rates or specific conditions. Always compare the estimated annual cost based on your usage.
Do low standing charge tariffs work for prepayment meters?
Sometimes, but options can be more limited. Pricing for PAYG can differ from credit/Direct Debit tariffs. If you’re on prepayment, compare tariffs that match your payment type and check any support available if you’re struggling with bills.
Will switching supplier change my standing charge?
It can. Standing charge is part of your tariff pricing. Different suppliers (and different tariffs from the same supplier) can have different standing charges, particularly by region and meter type.
What if I have Economy 7 or a smart meter tariff?
With Economy 7 (or other multi-rate tariffs), your savings depend heavily on how much energy you use off-peak. A low standing charge single-rate deal may not suit you. If you have a smart meter tariff (e.g., time-of-use), compare the full set of rates and your likely usage pattern.
Are low standing charge tariffs always fixed?
No. You can see low standing charge on fixed or variable deals. With variable tariffs, rates can change, so you’ll want to keep an eye on any updates from the supplier and re-compare periodically.
Does a low standing charge affect the Price Cap?
The Ofgem price cap limits what suppliers can charge on certain default tariffs (like Standard Variable Tariffs) for typical consumption values. It doesn’t mean every tariff has the same standing charge or unit rate. Low standing charge offers can still exist, but you should compare total costs and terms.
What information do I need to compare accurately?
At minimum: your postcode, whether you need gas + electricity or electricity-only, your meter/payment type, and a rough idea of your annual usage (kWh). If you don’t know your usage, start with your bills or online account—your comparison results can still be useful with an estimate.
How we assess “best low standing charge” tariffs
Our approach (people-first)
- We prioritise estimated annual cost, not standing charge in isolation.
- We highlight tariffs where the standing charge is lower than comparable options for the same region and meter/payment type.
- We surface key friction points: exit fees, smart meter requirements, term length, and billing/payment conditions.
Assumptions & limitations
- Quotes are postcode-based; final prices depend on your exact address and supplier terms.
- Estimated costs depend on your provided/assumed usage (kWh). If your usage differs, your “best” tariff may change.
- Some tariffs change availability quickly; we recommend re-checking before you commit.
- This page is for domestic energy only (not business energy).
Editorial integrity & transparency
- Written by
- EnergyPlus Editorial Team
- Reviewed by
- Energy Specialist
- Last updated
- February 2026
We aim to explain trade-offs clearly and avoid implying guaranteed savings. Always check tariff details before switching.
Sources (UK)
- Ofgem (UK energy regulator) – guidance on tariffs, price cap and consumer protections
- Citizens Advice energy advice – switching, billing, and help if you’re struggling to pay
- GOV.UK – general UK government guidance (e.g., cost of living support and energy-related schemes when available)
Ready to check low standing charge options for your postcode?
Get a whole-of-market comparison and see the tariffs that balance standing charge, unit rate and terms for your household.
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