How do I find the cheapest energy tariff in my area (UK)?

To find the cheapest energy tariff in your area, compare prices using your postcode, current supplier, and typical usage (kWh). Tariffs can vary by region, meter type (credit, prepayment, smart), and payment method (Direct Debit vs pay on receipt). For the most accurate result, use your latest bill to enter annual electricity and gas usage and then switch online once you’ve chosen the best-value plan.

Why is the cheapest tariff different depending on where I live?

Energy prices differ by region because network (distribution) costs vary across the UK. Your area’s Distribution Network Operator (DNO) charges suppliers different fees, which affects unit rates and standing charges. This is why a tariff that’s cheapest in one postcode may not be the cheapest in another.

What details do I need to compare energy tariffs accurately?

Have your postcode, current supplier, meter type (standard/credit, prepayment, smart), payment method, and your annual usage in kWh for electricity and gas. If you don’t know your kWh, you can estimate using your household size—but your bill is the most accurate for finding the true cheapest tariff in your area.

Is the cheapest tariff always the best option?

Not always. The lowest price may come with a higher standing charge, different contract length, exit fees, or online-only account management. To choose the best option, compare total estimated annual cost and check key terms such as fixed vs variable rates, contract length, and any fees.

Should I choose a fixed or variable energy tariff?

A fixed tariff locks in unit rates and standing charges for the fixed term, helping you budget and protecting you from price rises. A variable tariff can go up or down with the market and may be more flexible. If you want price certainty, fixed is often preferred; if you want flexibility, consider a variable deal with no exit fees.

Can I switch energy supplier if I have a smart meter or prepayment meter?

Yes. Most households can switch with a smart meter or prepayment meter, but available tariffs may vary. Some suppliers offer fewer deals for certain meter types. When comparing, select the correct meter type to see eligible tariffs and accurate prices for your postcode.

How long does it take to switch to a cheaper tariff?

In most cases, switching supplier takes around 5 working days under the faster switching process. Your energy supply won’t be interrupted. You’ll typically need to provide meter readings (or smart readings) and set up your payment method to complete the switch.

Will switching to the cheapest tariff affect my credit score?

Switching energy supplier usually doesn’t affect your credit score, but some suppliers may run a credit check when you choose a monthly Direct Debit plan. If you’re concerned, look for options that support alternative payment methods or speak to the supplier about eligibility.

Are there exit fees if I leave my current tariff early?

Some fixed tariffs have exit fees if you switch before the end of the contract. Check your current tariff’s terms or your latest bill. If you’re within your switching window near the end of a fixed deal, you may be able to switch without paying an exit fee.

How can I reduce my bills if the cheapest tariff still feels expensive?

If prices are high even on the cheapest tariff for your area, focus on reducing total usage: improve insulation, use heating controls, reduce standby power, and run appliances efficiently. Also review whether paying by Direct Debit, opting for dual fuel, or choosing a tariff with a lower standing charge would reduce your overall annual cost.

Is it safe to switch energy supplier online?

Yes—switching online is a standard process in the UK. Use accurate details, read tariff terms, and keep confirmation emails. Your supply remains continuous because the same gas and electricity networks deliver energy to your home; only the billing supplier changes.

Find the cheapest energy tariff in your area (UK)

Compare whole-of-market home energy tariffs by postcode in minutes. EnergyPlus.co.uk helps you see available deals in your area and switch with confidence.

Whole-of-market comparison for UK homes (gas, electricity or dual fuel)
See estimated annual costs based on your usage and region
Switch online with a quick form — no salesy phone calls required
Compare fixed vs variable tariffs, exit fees and terms side-by-side

Check deals by postcode How we find the cheapest

Estimates depend on your usage, meter type and regional price caps. Switching won’t interrupt your supply.

Cheapest energy tariff in my area UK: start with your postcode

The cheapest energy tariff isn’t the same everywhere in the UK. Your local distribution region, meter type, payment method and usage can all affect your unit rates and standing charges. That’s why the quickest way to find your best option is to compare tariffs available in your area using your postcode.

Use the form to tell us a few basics about your home energy — we’ll use that to match you with tariffs across the market, then highlight value options based on estimated annual cost and tariff features (like fixed term length, exit fees and greener electricity choices).

What you’ll need (if you have it)

Your postcode (required to find your region)
Approximate annual usage in kWh (or a recent bill)
Whether you want electricity only, gas only or dual fuel
Your current supplier and tariff name (optional, helps comparisons)

Not sure what counts as “cheapest”?

For most households, “cheapest” means the lowest estimated annual cost for your usage — not just the lowest unit rate. A tariff with a low unit rate but a higher standing charge (or vice versa) may work out more expensive depending on how much energy you use. We show costs in a way that’s easier to compare.

Get your cheapest local tariffs

Complete the form and we’ll find energy deals available in your area.

Postcode

Fuel

Payment method

Email address

Phone number (optional)

By submitting, you agree we can use your details to provide your comparison results and contact you about switching. You can opt out at any time.

Good to know: switching energy supplier doesn’t change your pipes or wires, and your gas/electricity stays on during the switch.

Tip: If you don’t know your exact usage, that’s okay. Many households can still get a helpful shortlist using typical usage assumptions and then refine once they find a recent bill.

Why compare with EnergyPlus.co.uk

When you search for the cheapest energy tariff in your area, it’s easy to get stuck comparing different rates, terms and “headline” savings. EnergyPlus focuses on the details that change what you actually pay.

Whole-of-market view

Compare a wide range of UK home energy suppliers and tariff types, not just a limited panel, so you can make an informed choice.

Local pricing accounted for

We factor in regional differences (standing charges and unit rates can vary by area), so your results reflect where you live.

Tariff details that matter

See term length, exit fees, payment method, meter compatibility and renewable options so you avoid “cheap” tariffs with costly catches.

Built for real households

Whether you’re a low user in a flat or a higher user in a family home, we focus on estimated annual cost for your consumption profile.

Clear next steps

We guide you through switching and what happens after you apply — including timelines and what to do if you’re in debt or moving home.

Privacy-first approach

We only ask for the info needed to provide accurate quotes and help you switch. You stay in control of your choices.

Want to jump straight in? Compare cheapest local tariffs now.

How we identify the cheapest energy tariff for your area

Energy tariffs are typically made up of a unit rate (pence per kWh) plus a standing charge (a daily fixed cost). Your region and meter type influence these, and the “cheapest” option depends on how much you use.

What we compare

Electricity and gas tariffs (including dual fuel)
Fixed tariffs vs variable tariffs
Standing charges and unit rates for your region
Tariff terms, exit fees and eligibility
Payment method (e.g. monthly Direct Debit vs prepayment)

How “cheapest” is estimated

Match your region: your postcode maps to an electricity distribution region and (where relevant) local gas charging area.
Apply your usage: we use your kWh (or typical usage estimates) to calculate annual cost.
Include fixed charges: standing charges are included across the full year.
Rank results: we prioritise value based on estimated cost and key tariff terms.

Unit rate vs standing charge: why both matter

Cost component	What it is	Why it affects “cheapest”
Unit rate (p/kWh)	What you pay for each unit of energy you use.	Higher usage homes feel unit rate changes more strongly.
Standing charge (p/day)	A daily fixed amount to cover network and other costs.	Lower usage homes can be hit harder by high standing charges.
Tariff terms	Contract length, exit fees, discounts, eligibility.	A slightly higher quote may be better if it avoids fees or suits your plans (e.g. moving).

If you want the most accurate result, enter your annual kWh from a bill. Otherwise, start with an estimate and refine later — it still helps you find competitive local deals.

Why energy prices vary by area in the UK

Even on the same supplier and tariff, customers can see different prices depending on where they live. That’s because some costs are set by region, including elements of the electricity distribution network. Your postcode helps identify your local region so your comparison is relevant.

Common factors that change by postcode

Electricity distribution region (local network costs)
Standing charges and unit rates set by the supplier for that region
Meter type (smart meter, standard credit meter, prepayment)
Tariff availability (some deals are regional or have eligibility rules)

What doesn’t usually change

Your energy quality or reliability (it comes from the same networks)
The switching process (no engineer visit in most cases)
Your right to switch (subject to eligibility and debt rules)

Looking for the cheapest energy tariff near you? Start with your postcode here to see relevant options.

Common mistakes when searching for the cheapest tariff

If you’ve ever switched and not seen the savings you expected, one of these could be the reason. Use this checklist to avoid false economy and choose a tariff that’s genuinely cheaper for your household.

Comparing unit rates only

A low unit rate can be offset by a high standing charge. Always compare estimated annual cost for your usage.

Ignoring exit fees

If you’re on a fixed tariff, leaving early may cost you. We highlight exit fees so you can judge real-world savings.

Not matching your meter type

Prepayment and smart/standard meters can have different prices and availability. Choose tariffs that fit your setup.

Using the wrong usage estimate

If your usage is far off, results can be misleading. If you can, take kWh from your bill for a more accurate ranking.

Forgetting discounts and terms

Some deals look cheap but have conditions. We surface key terms to help you compare like-for-like.

Switching at the wrong time for you

If you’re moving soon, a long fixed deal may not suit. Consider flexibility as well as price.

FAQs: cheapest energy tariff in my area (UK)

Can you guarantee the cheapest tariff?

We aim to show strong value options across the market based on the information you provide. Prices and availability can change, and the “cheapest” depends on your usage and tariff terms, so we present the most cost-effective choices we can identify for your area.

Will switching interrupt my gas or electricity?

In normal circumstances, no. Your energy continues to be supplied through the same networks. The change is mainly administrative and typically doesn’t require an engineer visit.

Is a fixed tariff always cheaper than a variable tariff?

Not always. Fixed tariffs can offer price certainty, but a variable tariff may be cheaper depending on market conditions and supplier pricing. Comparing estimated annual cost and terms helps you decide.

What if I have a prepayment meter?

You can still compare. Prepayment tariffs can differ from credit meter tariffs, and availability may vary. Select Prepayment meter in the form so results match your situation.

Do I need a smart meter to get the cheapest deals?

Not necessarily. Many tariffs are available to standard meters. However, smart meters can help with accurate billing and may be required for certain tariff types. We help you see what’s compatible.

How long does switching take?

Timescales vary, but switching is typically completed within a few working days to a couple of weeks depending on supplier processes and any cooling-off period. You’ll be kept updated during the process.

Still deciding? Start your comparison and you can review options before switching: check deals by postcode.

What UK households say

Social proof matters when you’re switching a vital home service. Here’s what customers typically value when using a whole-of-market comparison.

“I didn’t realise prices varied by area. The postcode results made it clear which tariff actually worked out cheapest for us.”

— Homeowner, Yorkshire

“The comparison explained standing charges properly. I picked a tariff that suited our low usage and it’s been easier to manage.”

— Flat resident, London

“Quick form, clear options, and no interruption to supply. It took the stress out of switching.”

— Family home, West Midlands

Trust signals you should expect

Clear display of unit rates, standing charges and tariff terms
Transparent explanation of estimated annual costs
A switching process that keeps you informed from application to start date

Ready to find your cheapest local energy tariff?

Enter your postcode and a few details to compare whole-of-market home energy deals available in your area. It only takes a couple of minutes.

Compare gas, electricity and dual fuel
See estimated annual costs for your usage
Switch online with a simple form

Compare cheapest tariffs now

Already started? Jump back to the comparison form.

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Updated on 7 Jan 2026