Cheapest gas and electricity tariff in the UK this week

What “cheapest this week” usually looks like

• Online fixed deals (often 12 months) can beat variable tariffs, but may include exit fees.
• Lower unit rates can be outweighed by a higher standing charge (especially for low usage homes).
• Some of the lowest-priced deals are new-customer only or limited to certain regions.

Key takeaways before you compare

• Cheapest for you depends on your postcode and usage, not the headline rate alone.
• Always compare estimated annual cost and check unit rate + standing charge for both fuels.
• Check tariff type (fixed/variable), exit fees, and whether it’s single fuel or dual fuel.

Decision checklist: is it actually the cheapest for you?

• Does it show estimated annual cost for your usage (not a generic example)?
• Are standing charges competitive in your region (electricity can vary a lot)?
• Any exit fees, and are you likely to move home or change plans soon?
• Is the tariff Direct Debit only (often cheaper) or available for your payment method?
• Is your meter type supported (standard, smart, prepayment; single-rate vs Economy 7)?
• Are there introductory discounts or conditions that later change the price?

Two realistic scenarios (with numbers)

These examples show why “cheapest” depends on usage and standing charges. Figures are illustrative (not a quote) and exclude any one-off credits or cashback.

Scenario A: Low-usage flat, electricity-heavy

Assumptions: 1,800 kWh electricity/year, 4,000 kWh gas/year.
Tariff 1: slightly higher unit rates, lower standing charges.
Tariff 2: lower unit rates, higher standing charges.
Outcome: Tariff 1 can be cheaper overall because standing charges make up a bigger share of the bill at low usage.

Scenario B: Family home, higher gas usage

Assumptions: 3,600 kWh electricity/year, 12,000 kWh gas/year.
Example maths on annual cost difference: a 1.5p/kWh lower gas unit rate could be worth ~£180/year (12,000 × £0.015), which may outweigh a modest standing charge increase.
Outcome: For higher usage, unit rate differences matter more, so the “headline cheap” fix can genuinely win.

Exit fees

Fixed tariffs often include exit fees (sometimes per fuel). If you might move, rent short-term, or want flexibility, weigh the fee against any estimated saving.

Standing charges

A low unit rate doesn’t help if the standing charge is high for your region. Low-usage households can be hit hardest.

Payment method limits

Some “cheap” deals are Direct Debit only. If you prefer pay-on-receipt, your best available tariff may look different.

Meter type & tariffs

Economy 7, smart time-of-use and prepayment meters can have different pricing. Confirm the tariff supports your meter setup before applying.

New customer / eligibility rules

Some offers exclude existing customers, certain regions, or require online account management. Always read key features and eligibility notes.

Warm Home Discount & support schemes

If you receive support (e.g., Warm Home Discount eligibility), check how switching could affect supplier-specific services and billing preferences. The scheme has rules and not all support is identical across suppliers.

Why do “cheapest tariff” lists differ between websites?

Because “cheapest” changes by postcode region, usage assumptions, meter type, and whether the site is showing a sample profile or a personalised quote. Deals also change frequently.

Is the cheapest tariff always a dual fuel deal?

Not always. Sometimes the cheapest option is to split suppliers (one for gas, another for electricity). Dual fuel can be simpler, but the combined cost is what matters.

What’s more important: unit rate or standing charge?

Both. For low usage homes, standing charges can dominate. For higher usage (especially gas-heated homes), small unit rate differences can add up over a year.

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

No. Many competitive fixed and variable tariffs are available with standard meters. A smart meter can unlock time-of-use tariffs, but those aren’t automatically cheaper for everyone.

How long does switching take in the UK?

Switching is typically quick, but timescales can vary by supplier and circumstances (meter changes, debt, or complex setups). You should be told the expected switch date during sign-up.

Will I lose the Warm Home Discount if I switch?

Warm Home Discount is scheme-based and eligibility depends on rules for the season. If you rely on support, check current guidance and confirm with the new supplier how they apply the scheme and any additional support options.

Can I switch if I rent?

Often, yes — if you pay the energy bills and the contract is in your name. If bills are included in rent or the landlord supplies energy, you may not be able to choose the supplier.

Do I need to cancel with my current supplier?

Usually no — the new supplier arranges the switch. Always keep a note of your meter readings on the day of the switch (or confirm your smart readings) to help avoid billing issues.

Our approach

• Whole-of-market comparison: We aim to surface widely available residential tariffs offered through our panel and partners, subject to availability and eligibility.
• “Cheapest” is ranked by estimated annual cost: Based on the tariff’s unit rate(s) and standing charge(s) for gas and electricity, including VAT at 5% for household energy.
• We prioritise clarity over hype: We highlight exit fees, contract length, payment method restrictions, and meter compatibility.

Assumptions & limitations

• Regional variation: Standing charges and unit rates vary across Great Britain (and can differ in Northern Ireland). A deal that’s cheapest in one region may not be in another.
• Usage matters: Estimates depend on annual kWh usage. If your actual usage differs, your “cheapest” result may change.
• Meter setup: Economy 7 / multi-rate meters and time-of-use tariffs require careful matching to your usage pattern.
• Market movement: Tariffs can be withdrawn or repriced quickly. We show the latest available data at the time you compare.

Trust signals

Written by

EnergyPlus Editorial Team

Reviewed by

Energy Specialist (UK retail energy)

Last updated

April 2026

Sources (UK)

• Ofgem (UK energy regulator): price cap and consumer guidance
• Citizens Advice: switching energy supplier and problem resolution
• GOV.UK: cost of living and household support information (where applicable)

We also use supplier tariff information and product terms provided through our comparison data feeds and partner submissions.