Cheapest green energy tariff UK: how to switch now

Compare green tariffs by postcode (whole of market)

Use this quick form to get an estimated quote for green-friendly home energy tariffs. We’ll ask for the details that most affect price: postcode (network region), contact details and (later in the journey) meter and usage.

How switching typically works (UK)

1. Compare estimated costs using your postcode, meter type and usage.
2. Choose a tariff and check key terms (exit fees, length, payment method).
3. Apply to switch (your new supplier contacts the old supplier).
4. Cooling-off period applies for many switches, then the supply starts on the agreed date.

If you rent, you can usually switch if you pay the bills and your contract allows it. If you have debt on a prepayment meter or a complex meter setup, you may have fewer options—still worth checking.

Get your quote

No spammy promises—just a practical starting point. You can ask us to prioritise greener electricity options.

REGOs (Renewable Energy Guarantees of Origin)

Many suppliers buy REGOs to match the renewable electricity they sell. This is standard practice and can be legitimate, but it doesn’t always mean your money directly funds new renewable build.

“Additionality” / investment claims

Some tariffs claim to support new renewable projects or community generation. If that matters to you, look for specifics: the project name, funding model, and whether it’s UK-based.

Green gas options

Gas tariffs may include a proportion of biomethane or use carbon offsetting. Check the % of “green gas”, how offsets are measured, and whether there’s an extra charge.

Green tariff checklist (before you commit)

• Meter: single-rate, Economy 7, smart, or prepayment?
• Payment: Direct Debit often cheapest; prepay options can be limited.
• Exit fees: what are they, and when do they apply?
• Standing charge: can outweigh unit-rate savings for low users.
• Green claim: REGOs, investment, biomethane %, or offsetting?
• Customer service: billing accuracy and support matter if anything goes wrong.

Two realistic cost scenarios (estimated)

These examples show how costs move with unit rates and standing charges. They are not promises and won’t match every region.

Scenario A: Low electricity user (flat, single-rate)

Assumptions: 1,800 kWh/year electricity; standing charge 55p/day; unit rate 25p/kWh.

Estimated annual electricity cost: (1,800 × £0.25) + (365 × £0.55) = £450 + £200.75 = £650.75.

Scenario B: Typical dual fuel (house, Direct Debit)

Assumptions: 2,900 kWh/year electricity at 24p/kWh; 12,000 kWh/year gas at 6.2p/kWh; electric standing 52p/day; gas standing 31p/day.

Estimated annual cost: Electricity £696 + £189.80 = £885.80; Gas £744 + £113.15 = £857.15. Total ≈ £1,742.95.

1) Payment method changes the price

Direct Debit tariffs are often cheaper than pay-on-receipt-of-bill or prepayment. If you can’t use Direct Debit, filter deals accordingly so the “cheapest” results stay realistic.

2) Meter type can limit green options

Economy 7, smart meters, and prepayment meters can have fewer tariff choices. If you’re unsure, check your latest bill for your meter type and whether you have day/night rates.

3) Exit fees and contract end dates

Fixed tariffs may charge exit fees if you leave early. Check your current supplier’s terms and your end date before you start a switch.

4) Standing charges can wipe out “cheap unit rates”

Especially for low users and smaller flats, standing charge differences matter. Always compare the estimated annual cost for your usage—not only p/kWh.

5) “Green gas” wording can be vague

If a supplier markets green gas, confirm whether it’s biomethane (and what percentage) or offsetting (and how it’s evidenced). Treat broad claims cautiously.

6) Regional availability and credit checks

Not all tariffs are available in all regions or for all customers. Some suppliers may require a credit check for credit meters.

1) Are green energy tariffs always more expensive?

Not always. Some renewable electricity tariffs are priced competitively, and your cheapest option can still be a “green” tariff depending on region and meter. Always compare estimated annual cost for your usage.

2) What does “100% renewable electricity” mean in practice?

Typically it means the supplier matches the electricity you buy with renewable generation certificates (often REGOs). The physical electricity delivered through the grid is a mix.

3) Can I get a green tariff on a prepayment meter?

Sometimes, but the choice can be smaller than credit meter options. Availability depends on your supplier, meter type (smart prepay vs traditional), and any debt arrangements.

4) I have Economy 7. Will a green tariff save me money?

Only if enough of your electricity use happens in the off-peak window. If most usage is daytime, you may pay more due to a higher day rate. Compare using your actual (or estimated) day/night split.

5) Can tenants switch to a green supplier?

In many cases, yes—if you’re responsible for paying the energy bills and your tenancy agreement allows it. If bills are included in rent, you typically can’t choose the supplier.

6) Will switching affect my supply?

Normally no. Your energy still comes through the same pipes and wires; only billing and customer service change. Interruptions are very uncommon for standard switches.

7) Should I choose fixed or variable for a green tariff?

Fixed can help budgeting but may include exit fees. Variable offers flexibility but rates can change. The “best” choice depends on your risk tolerance and whether you might move home soon.

8) How do I check if my current tariff has exit fees?

Look at your latest bill, your online account, or the original tariff terms. If you’re unsure, ask your supplier directly and confirm the fee amount and when it applies.

Editorial information

Written by

EnergyPlus Editorial Team

Reviewed by

Energy Specialist (UK domestic markets)

Last updated

April 2026

How we assess “cheapest green tariff”

We treat “cheapest” as the lowest estimated annual cost for a given household profile (usage + region + meter + payment method), not the lowest headline unit rate.

• Inputs that change results: postcode region, payment method, meter type (single-rate/Economy 7/smart/prepay), and consumption (kWh).
• Cost model: estimated annual cost = (electricity kWh × electric unit rate) + (electric standing charge × 365) + (gas kWh × gas unit rate) + (gas standing charge × 365), where applicable.
• Green criteria: tariffs marketed as renewable electricity/green energy, and where disclosed, whether claims are backed by REGOs and/or additional investments. For gas, we note biomethane proportions or offsetting language where available.
• Limitations: tariffs can change, suppliers can withdraw deals, and your final cost depends on actual usage and billing. Some customers may be ineligible due to credit checks, debt, or meter constraints.