What is a time-of-use (TOU) energy tariff?

A time-of-use (TOU) tariff is an electricity price plan where your unit rate changes depending on the time of day (and sometimes day of the week). Prices are typically higher during peak hours and lower in off-peak periods, so you can reduce bills by shifting usage to cheaper times.

Are Ofgem time-of-use tariffs available across the UK?

Availability depends on your supplier, your meter setup, and your region. Many TOU deals are offered nationally, but eligibility can vary. Use a comparison to check what’s available for your postcode.

How much could I save with a time-of-use tariff?

Savings depend on how much electricity you can move to off-peak times (for example, running the dishwasher, washing machine, EV charging, or heating water overnight). If most of your use stays in peak hours, a TOU tariff may not be cheaper overall.

Is a time-of-use tariff a good idea if I work from home?

It can be, but it depends on when you use electricity. If working from home increases daytime usage during peak periods, costs could rise. If you can shift flexible loads to off-peak windows, you may still save.

What’s the difference between Economy 7 and modern time-of-use tariffs?

Economy 7 typically has two fixed rates (day and night) with a set overnight off-peak window. Modern TOU tariffs can have more time bands (including peak, shoulder and off-peak), and prices may vary more dynamically depending on the tariff structure.

Can I compare time-of-use tariffs against fixed or variable tariffs?

Yes. A good comparison looks at your expected annual cost across TOU, fixed and variable deals. To get the most accurate result, use your actual usage patterns (or smart meter data if available) and consider standing charges as well as unit rates.

Are there any risks to switching to a time-of-use tariff?

The main risk is paying more if you can’t shift enough consumption away from peak times, or if peak rates are significantly higher. Check the tariff’s peak windows, standing charge, and whether there are exit fees before switching.

How do I check whether a time-of-use tariff will be cheaper for me?

Review when you use electricity (day vs evening vs overnight), identify flexible appliances you can run off-peak, and then compare estimated annual costs across tariffs. You can also run a quote and compare deals at https://www.energyplus.co.uk/ to see potential savings.

How do I switch to a time-of-use tariff?

Choose a suitable TOU deal, confirm you have (or can get) a smart meter, and apply with the new supplier. In most cases, your new supplier will handle the switch for you. You can start comparing options at https://www.energyplus.co.uk/.

Compare Ofgem time-of-use tariffs in the UK & check your savings

Q: Do I need a smart meter for a time-of-use tariff?

In most cases, yes. TOU tariffs usually require a smart meter so your supplier can accurately record when you use electricity and apply the correct peak/off-peak rates.

Time-of-use (TOU) electricity prices can be cheaper at certain hours — ideal if you can shift usage (EV charging, heat pumps, washing). Use EnergyPlus.co.uk’s whole-of-market comparison to see if an Ofgem-aligned TOU tariff could cut your bills based on how you use energy at home.

Whole-of-market comparison for UK homes (not just one supplier)
Understand peak vs off-peak rates and when they apply
See whether TOU beats standard variable or fixed deals
Quick form — we’ll match you to suitable tariffs for your postcode

Compare TOU tariffs & estimated savings How Ofgem TOU tariffs work

Home energy comparison. Availability depends on your meter type (including smart meters) and supplier coverage in your area. Prices can change — we’ll show current options at the time you compare.

Compare Ofgem time-of-use tariffs in your area

Time-of-use electricity tariffs charge different rates depending on the time of day (and sometimes the day of the week). The idea is simple: if you can move some usage into cheaper periods, you can reduce your overall unit cost and potentially your bill.

Ofgem encourages suppliers to offer tariff choices that help households use energy more flexibly. But not every TOU tariff is automatically cheaper — it depends on your home’s pattern of use, your meter, and the specific peak/off-peak hours. EnergyPlus.co.uk helps you compare current home energy tariffs across the market and identify where savings may be available.

What you’ll need for an accurate comparison

Your postcode (for local network area and available deals)
Whether you have a smart meter (or Economy 7/Economy 10)
Rough usage habits (EV charging, heat pump, storage heaters, night-time appliances)

Already on a TOU tariff? You can still compare. Sometimes a newer deal (or even a good fixed rate) can work out better than a complex split-rate tariff — especially if you’re using most power at peak times.

Get your TOU comparison

Fill in the form and we’ll match you with suitable home energy tariffs, including time-of-use where available.

Tip: If you have an EV, immersion heater, or you run appliances overnight, TOU tariffs can be a strong fit. If most of your usage is 4pm–9pm, a simple fixed deal may be cheaper.

What are Ofgem time-of-use tariffs?

A time-of-use tariff (sometimes called a smart tariff) is a home electricity tariff where the unit price varies by time period. Suppliers set higher prices during peak hours and lower prices during off-peak hours (and sometimes offer an even lower “super off-peak” window).

Ofgem’s focus is on helping households understand tariff choices and making sure pricing is fair and transparent. In practice, TOU deals in the UK often require a smart meter because it records half-hourly usage, allowing suppliers to bill different rates for different times.

Peak

Higher unit rates when the grid is busiest. Many tariffs concentrate peak pricing in late afternoon/early evening.

Off-peak

Cheaper hours for flexible consumption (laundry, dishwasher, EV charging, water heating).

Standing charge

A daily fixed amount. TOU tariffs can still have a high standing charge, so it’s essential to compare the full cost.

Who can save most on a time-of-use tariff?

You don’t need to overhaul your life to benefit — but you do need at least some flexibility. The households most likely to see savings are those that can move a meaningful share of electricity use away from peak times.

EV owners

If you can charge overnight or in a dedicated low-rate window, TOU pricing can reduce the cost per mile.

Heat pumps & electric heating

Homes with higher electric demand can benefit if heating/hot water can run more in lower-price periods (where suitable).

Night-time appliance use

Dishwashers, washing machines and tumble dryers scheduled later can shift a chunk of usage off-peak.

Home batteries / solar

Some TOU tariffs suit charging a battery when rates are low and using stored energy during peak times (where your system supports it).

Working from home (with flexibility)

If you can shift discretionary usage (laundry, cooking prep, hot water), you may still benefit even with daytime occupancy.

Households avoiding peak periods

If you’re usually out during the early evening peak, your natural usage pattern may already be TOU-friendly.

Reality check: If most of your electricity use is concentrated during peak hours (often early evening), a time-of-use tariff can increase your costs. Comparing the full tariff structure is essential.

How time-of-use tariffs work (rates, hours, and what to compare)

TOU tariffs vary by supplier. Some have two rates (peak/off-peak), while others have multiple price bands. The critical part is understanding when each rate applies and whether your usage can realistically move into cheaper windows.

Key parts of a TOU tariff

Tariff element	What it means	Why it matters for savings
Peak unit rate	Higher p/kWh during busy periods	If you use most electricity at peak time, costs can rise quickly
Off-peak / low unit rate	Cheaper p/kWh in set hours	The more you can shift (EV, laundry, hot water), the better the economics
Standing charge	Daily fixed cost	A higher standing charge can cancel out unit-rate savings, especially for low users
Tariff hours	The exact times each rate applies	Different suppliers set different windows — the cheapest hours must match your routine
Exit fees / term	Fixed terms may include exit fees	If you might switch again soon, flexibility can be valuable

How to estimate whether TOU will beat your current tariff

Identify your flexible loads: EV charging, washing/drying, dishwashing, immersion heater, home battery charging.
Estimate shiftable percentage: even moving 15–30% of usage off-peak can change the outcome.
Compare total costs, not just the lowest rate: include standing charges and peak pricing.
Check the actual hours: off-peak windows vary; ensure they fit your schedule.
Confirm meter requirements: many TOU tariffs need a smart meter or a compatible setup.

Not sure about your usage? Submit the form above and we’ll help you compare suitable tariffs for your postcode and situation, including whether a TOU option looks sensible.

Savings checklist: avoid the common TOU mistakes

Time-of-use tariffs can be excellent — but only when the tariff structure matches the way your household uses electricity. Use this checklist before switching.

Do

Compare the annual cost (unit rates + standing charge)
Check if peak hours overlap with your busiest times (often cooking/entertainment)
Look for a TOU window that suits EV charging or overnight appliance schedules
Keep notes of your current tariff end date and any exit fees
Review direct debit settings after switching to avoid surprises

Avoid

Picking a tariff just because it has an ultra-low off-peak headline rate
Ignoring the standing charge (it can outweigh savings for low usage)
Assuming TOU always beats a good fixed deal
Switching without confirming your meter is compatible
Changing habits in a way that’s hard to sustain (savings should be realistic)

Regional and meter considerations (UK homes)

Your postcode affects pricing

Standing charges and unit rates can vary by region due to local network costs. That’s why postcode is essential for accurate comparisons.

Smart meters and half-hourly data

Many TOU deals require a smart meter to measure usage by time band. If you don’t have one, your TOU options may be limited.

Economy 7 / legacy setups

Some households already have multi-rate meters. A TOU comparison helps you check whether modern TOU deals or a standard tariff is better for you now.

FAQs: Ofgem time-of-use tariffs and switching

Are Ofgem time-of-use tariffs cheaper?

They can be, but only if a meaningful part of your electricity use happens in cheaper periods. If your usage is mostly during peak hours, your costs may increase. Comparing your expected annual cost is the safest approach.

Do I need a smart meter for a time-of-use tariff?

Often, yes. Many TOU tariffs rely on half-hourly readings from a smart meter. Some legacy multi-rate meters may support certain split-rate tariffs, but options vary.

What’s the difference between Economy 7 and modern TOU tariffs?

Economy 7 typically has two rates with a fixed block of off-peak hours. Modern TOU tariffs may have different hour windows, more than two rates, and sometimes additional conditions or incentives — especially for EV charging.

Can I switch away if a TOU tariff isn’t working for me?

Usually yes, but check whether you’re on a fixed-term contract with exit fees. If you’re unsure, compare your options and review tariff terms before committing.

Will a time-of-use tariff affect my gas prices too?

Time-of-use pricing is mainly an electricity feature. Gas tariffs are typically single-rate. If you’re comparing dual fuel, it’s still worth checking the combined annual cost.

How does EnergyPlus.co.uk compare TOU tariffs?

We use your postcode and details to surface suitable home energy tariffs across the market, then help you assess whether TOU rates and hours match your likely usage pattern.

Want a faster answer? Head back to the comparison form and we’ll show what’s available for your postcode.

Trusted comparison support for UK households

Clear, practical guidance

We explain peak/off-peak structures in plain English so you can make a confident choice, not a guess.

Whole-of-market approach

We focus on finding suitable tariffs available for your home and postcode — including TOU options where they make sense.

Privacy-first by design

We only ask for what’s needed to provide your comparison and follow up about your enquiry.

“The explanation of peak and off-peak was the missing piece. I could finally see if TOU made sense for our EV charging.”

Homeowner, UK

“Quick form and a clear breakdown. We switched away from a split-rate deal that wasn’t actually saving us money.”

Household customer, UK

Ready to see if a time-of-use tariff could save you money?

Compare home energy deals for your postcode, including TOU options where available. If it’s not a good fit, we’ll help you identify better alternatives.

Start my TOU comparison Read FAQs

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Fast eligibility check

Do you have (or can you get) a smart meter?
Can you shift some use away from peak hours?
Do the low-rate hours match your routine?

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Updated on 16 Feb 2026