No standing charge energy tariff UK: compare whole-of-market

Compare no standing charge tariffs in minutes

A no standing charge energy tariff usually replaces the daily fixed charge with a higher unit rate (p/kWh). That can suit some households—especially if you use very little energy—but it can cost more for average or higher usage.

To help you decide, we compare whole-of-market home energy options and highlight: standing charge, unit rate, any exit fees, and whether the tariff is a good match for your meter and consumption profile.

What you’ll need

• Your postcode (tariffs vary by region and network costs)
• Rough annual usage (or last bill if you have it)
• Meter type (credit, prepayment, smart)

What is a standing charge?

A standing charge is the fixed daily amount you pay to have your home connected to the gas and/or electricity network. It typically covers costs like maintaining pipes and wires, meter operation, and parts of supplier operating costs.

Even if you use zero kWh in a day, a standing charge (if applied) is still billed. That’s why no standing charge tariffs can look attractive if your consumption is very low.

How is a no standing charge tariff priced?

Most suppliers recover revenue by increasing the unit rate (p/kWh). The break-even point is the usage level where:

• You save the daily standing charge, but
• You pay more per kWh for every unit used.

If you’re at home a lot, have electric heating, charge an EV, or run multiple appliances, a no standing charge tariff is often not the lowest overall cost—but it can still be worth checking the maths.

Low energy users

If your home is empty often or you use minimal gas/electricity, avoiding a daily charge may reduce your overall bill—provided the unit rate uplift doesn’t outweigh the saving.

Second homes & occasional occupancy

For properties used sporadically, a fixed daily cost can feel disproportionate. A no standing charge option can be worth exploring (where available) and comparing against low-standing-charge tariffs.

Very small households

Single-occupancy or low-usage flats can sometimes benefit—but only after a proper annual cost comparison using realistic kWh estimates.

People switching from high standing charges

Standing charges vary by region and tariff. If yours is particularly high, it’s worth checking whether alternatives (including low-standing-charge deals) offer better value.

Smart meter households (sometimes)

Some specialist products may have eligibility requirements. A smart meter can expand the range of tariffs you can access, but it doesn’t guarantee a no standing charge option.

Anyone who compares properly

The biggest “benefit” comes from doing the right comparison: unit rate + standing charge + your usage, then choosing based on total annual cost.

Higher unit rates can wipe out savings

If your p/kWh is significantly higher, you can end up paying more overall—especially in winter, or if you use electricity for heating, hot water, or cooking.

Intro offers vs long-term pricing

Some tariffs look good at first glance. Always check the full tariff details: duration, whether prices are fixed/variable, and what happens at the end of any term.

Eligibility constraints

Availability can depend on your region, meter type, payment method, or whether the supplier is open to new customers in your area.

Prepayment considerations

Prepay tariffs often have different pricing structures. If you’re on prepayment, comparing like-for-like is essential—especially around standing charges and emergency credit rules.

Use a simple break-even check

To work out whether a no standing charge tariff might save money, compare it against a standard tariff:

In practice, we calculate based on your usage estimate to show which option is cheapest for your home.

Our comparison steps

1. Tell us your postcode to match region-specific network charges and available tariffs.
2. Pick your meter type (smart/credit/prepayment) to filter suitable options.
3. Compare total annual cost (standing charge + unit rates), not just the headline.
4. Check key terms such as exit fees, fixed vs variable pricing, and payment method.
5. Switch with confidence—we’ll guide you through next steps.

Eligibility and availability in the UK

True no standing charge tariffs are not always widely available and can change quickly. Whether you can get one depends on:

• Region/postcode: distribution network costs and tariff availability vary
• Meter type: some suppliers restrict tariffs by meter capability
• Payment method: direct debit vs receipt of bill vs prepayment can affect eligibility
• Fuel setup: electricity-only, gas-only, or dual fuel

If you can’t get £0 standing charge

You may still reduce fixed costs by choosing a low standing charge tariff or by switching to a tariff where the overall annual cost is lower. In many cases, that produces better value than a strict “£0 standing charge” requirement.

Your annual kWh

The higher your usage, the more a higher unit rate matters. No standing charge tariffs typically become less competitive as consumption rises.

Electric heating and hot water

All-electric homes often have higher kWh. That makes the unit rate especially important, so “£0 standing charge” can be a red herring.

Tariff type and terms

Fixed or variable pricing, exit fees, and payment method can change the true value of the deal—especially if you might switch again soon.

A practical rule of thumb

If your household uses very little energy, no standing charge could be worth testing. If you’re a medium or high user, focus on the lowest annual total—often achieved via competitive unit rates and reasonable standing charges.

We compare both outcomes

EnergyPlus shows no standing charge tariffs (where available) and the best-value alternatives, so you can choose based on what you’ll actually pay over a year.

Are no standing charge tariffs available in the UK?

Sometimes, but availability varies and can be limited by region, meter type and supplier criteria. If a true £0 standing charge tariff isn’t available, a low standing charge tariff may be the best alternative.

Is a no standing charge tariff cheaper?

It can be for very low usage households. For typical usage, higher unit rates can make it more expensive overall. Always compare by total annual cost using your estimated kWh.

Can I get no standing charge on prepayment?

It depends on suppliers and eligibility. Prepayment tariffs can price standing charges and unit rates differently, so like-for-like comparison is essential. We’ll filter based on your meter type.

Do I need a smart meter?

Not always. Some tariffs may require a smart meter, while others don’t. If you’re unsure, select “Not sure” and we’ll highlight suitable options and next steps.

Will switching affect my supply?

Your gas and electricity supply should remain continuous during a standard switch. You’re simply changing the company that bills you and the tariff you’re on.

What if I don’t know my usage?

You can still compare. Use your last bill if you have it, or start with a rough estimate. The key is to compare total cost consistently, then refine when you find a short list of deals.