Ofgem standing charge review update 2026: find the cheapest tariffs
Ofgem’s standing charge review could change how much you pay before you use any energy. Compare whole-of-market home energy tariffs with EnergyPlus and see whether a low-standing-charge deal could cut your bill.
- Whole-of-market comparison for UK homes (gas, electricity, or both)
- See tariffs that may suit low, medium, and high usage
- Quick form — we’ll match deals to your postcode and usage
- Clear guidance on fixed vs variable while the review evolves
Home energy only. Availability varies by region, meter type and supplier. Quotes are illustrative until you submit your details.
Ofgem standing charge review update (2026): what it means for household bills
Standing charges are the daily costs you pay for being connected to the gas and/or electricity network, even if you use no energy that day. They sit alongside the unit rate (the cost per kWh you use). Ofgem’s ongoing standing charge review is focused on whether the balance between standing charges and unit rates is fair — and how changes might affect different types of households across Great Britain.
In 2026, the most useful action you can take isn’t guessing the policy outcome — it’s comparing the whole-of-market tariffs available to your home and usage profile right now, then reviewing again when any changes feed through to supplier pricing. Some households benefit most from lower standing charges; others do better with a lower unit rate (even if the standing charge is higher).
Important: EnergyPlus provides a whole-of-market comparison service for UK homes. We’re not Ofgem and we can’t confirm future policy outcomes. This page explains what to watch and how to compare tariffs sensibly while the review continues.
Compare cheapest tariffs for your postcode (whole of market)
Tariffs change by region, meter type (credit, prepayment, smart), and whether you need electricity only or dual fuel. Use the form to get matched options, then compare on the two numbers that matter most:
- Standing charge (daily cost) — often more important for low-usage homes
- Unit rate (p/kWh) — typically more important for higher usage
What you’ll need
Postcode
So we can show tariffs for your region and network area.
Contact details
So we can send your results and help you switch if you choose.
Prefer to read first? Jump to how to choose a tariff and standing charge vs unit rate.
Tip: If you can find a recent bill, check whether you’re on a single rate or two-rate (Economy 7) tariff — it can affect which “cheapest” option is truly cheapest for you.
Why “cheapest tariff” depends on standing charge
Two tariffs can look similar, but swap the balance between a higher standing charge and a lower unit rate (or vice versa). That’s why comparing only p/kWh or only the daily charge can be misleading — you need to compare estimated annual cost based on your usage.
Who could benefit most if standing charges change in 2026?
Any Ofgem-led change that reduces standing charges would likely shift costs elsewhere (often into unit rates), so the winners and losers depend on usage. Here are common household scenarios to consider when comparing tariffs today.
Low usage homes
Smaller flats, single occupants, or very efficient homes can be more sensitive to the daily charge. A lower standing charge can make a noticeable difference.
Electric-only properties
No mains gas? Electricity standing charges and unit rates matter even more. The best deal depends on heating type (storage heaters, heat pump, panel heaters).
Higher usage households
Families and larger homes often save more from a low unit rate. Even a “cheap” standing charge may not help if the p/kWh is higher.
Prepayment meters
Tariffs can differ for prepay vs credit meters. If you’re eligible to switch meter type, it may widen your options — but it’s not always necessary.
Smart meters & time-of-use
If you can shift usage (EV charging, heat pump, appliances), time-of-use tariffs may beat standard deals — but check the standing charge and peak rates carefully.
How to choose the cheapest tariff while the standing charge review continues
You don’t need to predict the outcome of the review to make a good choice. The goal is to pick a tariff that fits your household’s actual pattern of use, without locking yourself into a poor deal.
- Check your current tariff type. Are you on a fixed, variable, or time-of-use tariff? If you’re not sure, your bill should tell you.
- Estimate your annual usage. If you have it, use kWh from your bill. If not, use typical household usage as a rough guide and refine once you have a statement.
- Compare on annual cost, not a single rate. A low standing charge can be outweighed by a higher unit rate (and vice versa).
- Check exit fees and contract length. If you want flexibility in 2026, shorter fixes can reduce the cost of switching again later.
- Confirm payment method and meter compatibility. Some tariffs are direct debit only; others may require a smart meter for time-of-use pricing.
- Re-check when prices move. If Ofgem changes rules and suppliers adjust, your “best” option may change — comparing again takes minutes.
Fixed vs variable: a practical view for 2026
Fixed tariffs can protect you from short-term price rises, but you may pay an exit fee to leave early. Variable tariffs offer flexibility, but prices can move up or down. If you’re unsure, compare both types by total cost and contract terms.
Standing charge vs unit rate: how “cheapest” can flip
This simplified example shows why you should compare annual cost. Figures below are illustrative only; real prices depend on region, supplier, and tariff.
| Example tariff | Standing charge (per day) | Unit rate (per kWh) | Better for… | Watch-outs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A: Low standing charge | Lower | Higher | Low usage households | Can cost more if you use a lot |
| B: Low unit rate | Higher | Lower | Higher usage households | Not ideal if you use little energy |
| C: Time-of-use | Varies | Off-peak low, peak high | Shiftable usage (EV/heat pump) | Peak times can be expensive |
A quick way to sanity-check a tariff
Multiply the standing charge × 365, then add (unit rate × your annual kWh). This back-of-the-envelope method won’t include every detail, but it helps you spot deals that look cheap on one line and expensive overall.
Regional considerations: why your standing charge isn’t the same as someone else’s
UK energy pricing varies by region because network costs differ. That’s why the same supplier can show different standing charges and unit rates for different postcodes.
Great Britain vs Northern Ireland
This page focuses on Great Britain energy market comparisons (England, Scotland, Wales). Northern Ireland has a different market structure and pricing approach.
Your meter setup matters
Economy 7 / two-rate meters, smart meters, and prepayment meters can open up or restrict the tariff types available — and that changes what “cheapest” looks like.
If you’re moving home, your new address will have its own regional rates. Compare again as soon as you have a postcode.
Common mistakes when hunting the cheapest tariffs in 2026
Comparing only standing charge
A low daily charge can hide a higher unit rate. Always check estimated annual cost for your usage.
Ignoring contract terms
Exit fees and long fixes can make it expensive to switch if prices shift after the Ofgem review updates.
Not matching to meter type
Two-rate and prepayment pricing can differ. A great deal for one meter may be unavailable for another.
FAQs: Ofgem standing charges & cheapest tariffs
What is a standing charge?
It’s a daily fee that covers things like maintaining the energy network and meter-related costs. You pay it whether you use energy or not.
Can I get a zero standing charge tariff?
Some tariffs may advertise very low standing charges, but the unit rate may be higher. Availability varies by supplier, region and meter type. Compare the total cost.
Will the Ofgem review definitely reduce standing charges in 2026?
Policy outcomes can change as consultations progress. The practical approach is to compare what’s available now and re-check if pricing structures change.
Does switching supplier affect my standing charge?
Yes. Standing charges vary by tariff and supplier (and by region). Switching can change both your daily charge and your unit rate.
What if I have solar panels?
If you generate electricity, your import usage may be lower — which can increase the importance of standing charges. If you export, check export rates separately.
Is it worth switching before my fixed deal ends?
Sometimes. If you have an exit fee, compare the saving against the fee and any remaining months. If you’re close to the end date, switching may be easier.
Trusted comparisons for UK households
When you’re comparing “cheapest tariffs”, trust comes from clarity: seeing the standing charge, unit rates, contract terms, and what’s available for your postcode.
Whole-of-market view
Compare across a broad range of suppliers and tariff types, not a limited shortlist.
Plain-English help
We explain the trade-off between standing charges and unit rates so you can choose confidently.
Switch-ready details
Contract length, payment method and key conditions are easy to review before you commit.
“I didn’t realise how much the standing charge was affecting my bill. The comparison made it obvious which deal suited my low usage.”
— Home energy customer, England
“We’re a busy household so unit rate mattered more than a small standing charge difference. Useful, straightforward comparison.”
— Home energy customer, Scotland
Ready to check the cheapest tariffs for your home?
If standing charges change in 2026, the “best” deal could look different. Start by comparing what’s available for your postcode today — with the standing charge and unit rates clearly shown.
No scripts on this page. Just clear guidance and a quick form to get your matched options.
What happens next?
- Submit your details and postcode
- We match tariffs available for your home
- You review standing charge, unit rate and contract terms
- Switch if you choose
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