Energy standing charge reduction: cut your fixed costs
Standing charges are the daily fees you pay even if you use no energy. If you’re looking for an energy standing charge reduction, EnergyPlus can compare whole-of-market home tariffs to help you find better value.
- Compare electricity and gas tariffs from across the market in one place
- Find options that may lower your standing charge and/or unit rate
- Quick form — we’ll match you with suitable deals for your postcode
For UK homes only. Availability depends on your meter type, payment method and postcode. We compare whole-of-market tariffs where available.
Compare energy deals to target a lower standing charge
An energy standing charge reduction usually comes from switching to a tariff that charges a lower daily fee. In the UK, every tariff is made up of:
- Standing charge (a fixed pence-per-day cost)
- Unit rate (pence per kWh for what you use)
Some deals offer a lower standing charge but a higher unit rate, so the “best” option depends on your usage. We help you compare both parts, so you’re not only chasing a headline figure.
Tip: If you use less energy (for example, a small flat or a property that’s empty often), standing charges can make up a larger share of your bill — making comparison even more important.
Get whole-of-market comparisons
Fill in your details and we’ll show suitable home energy options for your area.
Already on a smart meter? Tell us anyway — some tariffs vary by meter type, and we’ll factor that into your comparison.
Why do energy suppliers charge a standing charge?
In Great Britain, the electricity and gas standing charge is a daily fee that helps cover fixed costs related to supplying your home. Even if you use no energy on a given day, these costs still exist in the system.
Network & maintenance
Charges linked to maintaining pipes, cables, and local distribution networks that deliver energy to your area.
Metering & admin
Costs for meter reading, billing, customer service and other operational overheads.
Policy & market costs
Elements can include industry and policy-related costs which may change over time across the market.
Important: Standing charges can vary by region, payment method and meter type. Two homes with the same supplier can still pay different standing charges if they’re in different network areas.
How to reduce your standing charge (UK home guide)
You can’t usually “remove” the standing charge altogether, but you may be able to reduce the amount you pay by choosing a tariff that suits your usage and circumstances. Here are practical routes to explore.
1) Compare tariffs by total cost, not one figure
Some tariffs lower the standing charge but increase the unit rate. We help you compare the whole picture so the tariff fits your likely annual use.
2) Check payment method options
Direct Debit, receipt of bill and prepayment can price differently. If you can change payment method, you may open up better tariffs.
3) Confirm your meter type and registers
Single-rate, Economy 7, smart meters and legacy setups can affect which deals are available and how standing charges are set.
4) Don’t ignore exit fees and timing
If you’re on a fixed deal, check for exit fees. A lower standing charge won’t help if switching costs outweigh savings.
Best next step: Use your postcode and contact details and we’ll surface tariffs that may reduce fixed costs in your region — then you can choose based on your own priorities.
Tariff types that affect standing charges
Different tariffs structure costs differently. The table below explains what to look for when your goal is an energy standing charge reduction.
A simple way to judge “better value”
- Note your current standing charge and unit rate for gas and/or electricity (from your bill).
- Estimate your annual usage (kWh) or use last year’s statement.
- Compare tariffs based on annual cost (standing charge + unit usage), not just one line item.
- Check terms: exit fees, payment method and any eligibility constraints.
Regional note: Standing charges differ across network regions in England, Scotland and Wales. Your postcode is essential for accurate comparison.
Common mistakes when trying to reduce standing charges
Comparing on standing charge alone
A lower daily fee can be offset by a higher unit rate. Always check the combined annual cost for your usage.
Ignoring meter setup
Economy 7, smart meters, and multi-register meters can change which tariffs you can access and the prices shown.
Not checking contract terms
Exit fees and end dates matter. Switching at the wrong time can wipe out savings.
Energy standing charge reduction FAQs
Can I get a zero standing charge tariff in the UK?
Most mainstream domestic tariffs include a standing charge. Occasionally, niche tariffs may structure costs differently, but the trade-off is often a higher unit rate. The key is to compare total expected cost for your usage.
Why is my standing charge higher than someone else’s?
Standing charges can vary by distribution region (postcode), payment method, meter type and the specific tariff. Comparing with someone outside your region or on a different setup can be misleading.
Will reducing my standing charge always lower my bill?
Not always. If the unit rate increases enough, you could pay more overall. Low-usage households tend to benefit more from lower standing charges, while higher-usage households may benefit more from a lower unit rate.
Does switching supplier affect my energy supply?
No. Your gas and electricity keep coming through the same pipes and wires. Switching changes who bills you and what rates you pay.
What information do I need to compare standing charges accurately?
Your postcode, whether you need gas, electricity or both, your meter type (if known), and ideally an idea of your annual usage. If you don’t have usage figures, we can still help you start comparing.
Need help now? Go to the comparison form and we’ll match you with options for your area.
What homeowners use EnergyPlus for
We’re built for people who want clarity — not confusion — when comparing energy prices. Here’s the type of feedback we commonly hear from UK households using a comparison approach focused on total cost.
“I didn’t realise standing charges differed so much by region. The comparison made it obvious which tariffs were actually cheaper overall.”
“The form was quick. I could see deals that balanced a lower daily charge without the unit price shooting up.”
“Helpful for checking options when my fix ended — the breakdown made it easy to compare like for like.”
Trust signals: Whole-of-market comparisons (where available), postcode-accurate pricing, and a focus on total cost so you can make an informed choice.
Ready to try for a lower standing charge?
Use our whole-of-market comparison to find home energy tariffs that better match your usage — including options that may reduce your fixed daily costs in your region.
- Postcode-accurate comparisons
- See standing charges and unit rates together
- Quick form fill to get started
No interruption to your supply. Tariffs and availability vary by region, meter and payment method.
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