Compare energy tariffs with free electricity weekends (UK)
Thinking about a tariff that gives you cheaper or free electricity at the weekend? Use EnergyPlus.co.uk to compare whole-of-market home energy deals and see which time-of-use options fit your usage, smart meter and postcode.
- Whole-of-market comparison for UK homes (not just a handful of suppliers)
- See tariffs with weekend perks, off-peak rates and smart meter plans
- Check eligibility, switching timelines and what “free” really means
- Quick form—get tailored results for your home and usage pattern
UK domestic energy comparison. Availability varies by supplier, region and meter type. “Free” periods typically apply to unit rates only—standing charges still apply.
Compare UK energy tariffs offering weekend perks
“Free electricity weekends” tariffs are usually a type of time-of-use plan designed to shift consumption away from expensive peak times. Depending on the supplier, you might get:
- 0p/kWh for electricity unit rates during set weekend hours (often Saturday and/or Sunday)
- Reduced off-peak rates overnight
- Bundles aimed at EV charging, heat pumps, or households that do more laundry/cooking at weekends
Important: “Free” typically refers to the unit rate during a promotional time window. You will usually still pay the standing charge, and rates outside the free window can be higher. Comparing based on your real usage pattern is essential.
What we need to show your best matches
Enter your postcode and contact details so we can prepare a tailored comparison for your home. If you have a smart meter (or you’re considering one), mention it when we contact you—many weekend and time-of-use tariffs require it.
Already know your current tariff? Having a recent bill helps, but you can still start without it.
Why compare free electricity weekend tariffs?
Potential savings if you can shift usage
If your household can run appliances (washing machine, dishwasher, tumble dryer) mainly in the weekend window, a tariff with a weekend perk can reduce your effective unit cost.
Better fit for EVs and smart tech
Many time-of-use tariffs suit EV charging, battery storage, smart heating controls and households comfortable scheduling usage.
Avoid paying more on the wrong plan
Some “free weekend” deals have higher peak rates. Comparing based on your likely weekday and evening usage helps you avoid switching to a tariff that costs more overall.
Whole-of-market perspective
EnergyPlus.co.uk helps you compare a wide range of UK home energy tariffs—useful because availability changes by region, meter and supplier policy.
Clearer terms and time windows
We help you check the exact weekend hours, whether both days are included, and whether you must opt in or meet minimum usage criteria.
Switch support
If you choose to proceed, you’ll typically switch without disruption to supply—your gas/electricity keeps flowing while the admin moves across.
How “free electricity weekends” tariffs work in the UK
In the UK, free weekend electricity tariffs are usually time-of-use electricity plans. They rely on half-hourly or time-banded pricing—often enabled by a smart meter—so the supplier can apply different rates at different times.
What “free” usually means
- Unit rate can be 0p/kWh in a defined weekend window
- Standing charge still applies (daily cost to remain connected)
- Outside the window, you’ll pay standard/peak rates which may be higher
- Terms may change after a promotional period—always check end dates
Common requirements
- Smart meter (or agreement to have one fitted)
- Direct Debit billing
- Eligibility may differ by region and meter configuration
- Some deals are electricity-only; gas may be separate
Typical tariff structures you’ll see
How to compare properly (not just the headline)
- Map your usage: estimate what % of your electricity you can move into the weekend window.
- Check peak rates: compare weekday evening unit rates—this is where costs can rise.
- Include standing charge: it applies every day even if you use “free” electricity.
- Confirm the hours: “weekend” might mean a specific time band, not all day.
- Review exit fees and term length: fixed deals may have charges for leaving early.
Tip: If your busiest electricity time is weekday evenings (5pm–10pm) and you can’t shift it, a free weekend window may not outweigh higher peak rates. Use the form above so we can help you compare on real-world costs.
Who free weekend electricity tariffs suit (and who should be cautious)
Often a good fit if you…
- Can run appliances mainly on Saturday/Sunday (or in the specified window)
- Have an EV and do most charging at weekends
- Work away in the week and use more energy at weekends
- Have (or are happy to get) a smart meter and can track usage
- Have flexible routines and can use timers/smart plugs safely
Be cautious if you…
- Use most electricity on weekday evenings (cooking, heating, entertainment)
- Can’t easily shift usage due to caring responsibilities or home working
- Don’t have a smart meter and don’t want one (many deals require it)
- Prefer predictable costs without time bands
- Are on a tariff you can’t leave yet without significant exit fees
Regional note: Unit rates and standing charges vary by distribution region across Great Britain. Northern Ireland operates a different market—availability and pricing can differ.
Quick checklist before you switch
Use this checklist to avoid the most common mistakes people make when comparing free electricity weekend tariffs in the UK.
1) Confirm the weekend hours
Check whether it’s all day, evenings only, or a limited window. Also confirm if it’s Saturday, Sunday, or both.
2) Check weekday peak unit rates
A 0p window can be offset by higher prices at peak. Compare on total cost, not just the perk.
3) Include standing charges
Standing charges apply regardless of usage, and they differ by region and supplier.
4) Make sure your meter is compatible
Time-of-use plans commonly require smart meters and half-hourly reads to bill accurately.
5) Look for minimum term & exit fees
If you may move home or change plans soon, flexibility can matter more than a weekend perk.
6) Don’t assume dual fuel is best
Sometimes the best electricity deal is separate from the best gas deal—compare both ways for your home.
FAQs: free electricity weekends & UK tariff comparison
Are free electricity weekend tariffs really free?
They can be 0p/kWh for electricity unit rates during a defined time window. However, you’ll usually still pay the standing charge, and the unit rates outside the free window may be higher. Always compare the overall annual cost based on your usage.
Do I need a smart meter for weekend tariffs?
Often, yes. Many time-of-use and promotional window tariffs require a smart meter so the supplier can apply the correct rates at the correct times. Some suppliers may offer alternatives, but availability is limited.
Will my electricity supply be interrupted if I switch?
No—switching supplier is an administrative change. Your energy supply should continue as normal. If a smart meter installation is needed, that appointment is scheduled separately.
What if I rent my home?
If you’re responsible for paying the energy bills, you can usually switch supplier. If you’re unsure (e.g., bills included in rent), check your tenancy agreement or ask your landlord/agent.
How do I know if a weekend tariff will save me money?
It depends on how much electricity you can shift into the weekend free window and what you pay at peak times. Households with EV charging or heavy weekend appliance use often benefit. If your usage is mainly weekday evenings, savings can be harder to achieve. Use the comparison form to get options tailored to your postcode and situation.
Does “free weekend electricity” include gas?
Usually not. The perk typically applies to electricity unit rates only, during specified hours. Gas is typically priced separately and may be single-rate.
Need help choosing? Submit the form in Compare & get results and we’ll guide you through weekend windows, smart meter requirements, and total cost comparisons.
What homeowners look for (and what we help with)
When people compare free electricity weekend tariffs, the biggest worry is choosing a deal that looks good on paper but costs more in real life. EnergyPlus.co.uk focuses on clarity: time windows, eligibility, and the overall cost impact.
“I didn’t realise the ‘free’ hours were limited. The comparison made it obvious which tariff actually suited our weekend routines.”
“We charge our EV mostly on Saturdays. Seeing peak vs off-peak costs in one place helped us choose confidently.”
“The standing charge difference by region surprised me. I’m glad we compared properly instead of chasing the headline.”
Trust indicator: We focus on domestic (home) energy comparisons and help you understand tariff features like time bands, smart meter needs, and switching implications before you commit.
Ready to compare free weekend electricity tariffs?
Get a tailored, whole-of-market view for your UK home. We’ll help you check weekend windows, smart meter requirements, standing charges and the likely total cost—not just the headline offer.
No disruption to supply when switching. Tariff availability varies by region, meter type and supplier criteria.
What happens next
- You submit the form with your postcode and contact details
- We match suitable weekend/time-of-use tariffs for your area
- We confirm terms (hours, standing charge, peak rates, eligibility)
- If you want to proceed, we support your switch
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