Which UK suppliers have cut SVT unit rates this month?
See what’s changed on Standard Variable Tariffs (SVTs), why unit rates can fall even if your bill doesn’t, and compare whole-of-market home energy deals in minutes with EnergyPlus.co.uk.
- Track SVT unit rate changes and what they mean for your direct debit
- Check if a fixed tariff could beat today’s SVT rates for your usage
- Whole-of-market comparison for UK households (not business energy)
- Switching support with clear next steps and no jargon
Rates move for many reasons (including the Ofgem price cap). We’ll show how to interpret SVT updates and whether switching could reduce your unit rate and standing charge.
What’s happening with SVT unit rates this month?
In the UK, most households who haven’t recently fixed (or who have come to the end of a fix) will be on their supplier’s Standard Variable Tariff (SVT). SVT prices can change. Many suppliers align updates with the Ofgem price cap periods, but suppliers can also make changes in between.
When we say a supplier has “cut SVT unit rates”, we mean the price you pay per kWh for gas and/or electricity has reduced on their variable tariff. Your total cost still depends on your standing charge, your usage (kWh), and whether your account is in credit or debit.
Important: SVT rates are regional (your local distribution area affects electricity prices), and some suppliers have more than one SVT. Use the comparison form below to see the rates that apply to your postcode.
Check if you can beat your SVT (whole-of-market)
If your supplier has reduced SVT unit rates, that’s helpful — but it doesn’t automatically mean your SVT is now the best option. Fixed tariffs can sometimes offer lower unit rates, more predictable bills, or a better balance of unit rate vs standing charge.
What we’ll show you
- Available home energy tariffs across the market
- Estimated costs based on your region and typical usage
- Whether switching could reduce your unit rate and/or standing charge
- Clear next steps if you decide to switch
Tip: If your fixed deal ended recently, you may have moved onto an SVT automatically. Comparing now is often the quickest way to see if a new fix is worthwhile.
Get your results
Enter a few details to see tariffs available for your home.
Why suppliers cut SVT unit rates (and what to check)
Ofgem price cap changes
The cap limits what suppliers can charge typical customers on SVTs (per kWh and standing charge). When the cap falls, SVT unit rates often follow.
Wholesale costs & hedging
Energy is bought in advance. Two suppliers can react differently depending on when they purchased energy and how much price risk they locked in.
Standing charge vs unit rate
Some reductions happen mainly in the unit rate, while standing charges move less (or sometimes rise). Always look at the full picture.
Which UK suppliers have cut SVT unit rates this month?
SVT unit rates are regional and can differ between payment methods and meter types. The table below is a practical checklist of where to look and what to confirm. For exact rates that apply to your home, use the postcode comparison.
Accuracy note: Suppliers may publish SVT updates on different dates and may apply changes from a stated effective date. Always verify in your online account, latest tariff information label, or your supplier’s prices page.
Want to check your own numbers? Jump to how SVT pricing works and the reasons your bill may not drop even when unit rates do.
How SVTs and the Ofgem price cap affect your rate
The Ofgem price cap is set for typical household consumption. It does not cap your total bill — it caps the maximum that suppliers can charge per unit (kWh) and for the standing charge on SVTs in each region.
If suppliers cut SVT unit rates, it usually reflects a lower cap level, changes to network costs, or other allowed cost changes. Your best next step is to compare your updated SVT against current fixes in your region.
What to look at on your bill
- Tariff name: “Standard”, “Variable”, “Flexible” etc.
- Electricity unit rate: pence per kWh (may vary by time for some meters)
- Gas unit rate: pence per kWh
- Standing charges: daily cost for each fuel
- Payment method: Direct Debit, credit, or prepay (rates can differ)
If you’re unsure, the comparison form will match tariffs to your postcode so you don’t compare against the wrong region.
Why your monthly Direct Debit might not fall (even if unit rates do)
A unit rate cut affects the cost of each kWh you use. But your payment is often set to smooth costs across the year. Here are the most common reasons you may not see an immediate reduction.
Standing charges are unchanged
If standing charges stay high, households with lower usage may see a smaller benefit from unit rate cuts.
You’re repaying a balance
If your account is in debit, suppliers may keep your Direct Debit higher to clear the balance.
Seasonal smoothing
Many Direct Debits are calculated to cover winter usage. Even with lower rates, suppliers may wait until your annual review.
If you want the most accurate view of what you’ll pay next, compare deals based on your region and usage. Start here: compare whole-of-market tariffs.
Common mistakes when comparing SVT vs fixed
Comparing the wrong region
Electricity prices vary by distribution area. Two neighbours in different regions can see different SVT unit rates. Always compare using your postcode.
Ignoring standing charges
A lower unit rate can be offset by a higher standing charge. If you use less energy, standing charges matter more.
Using old usage figures
If your household has changed (working from home, new baby, electric heater), older annual kWh can mislead the comparison.
Assuming SVT is always “safer”
SVTs can rise when costs rise or when the cap increases. A well-priced fix can add predictability — especially through winter.
FAQs: SVT unit rate cuts & switching
What is an SVT (Standard Variable Tariff)?
An SVT is a supplier’s default variable tariff. Prices can change. Many customers move onto an SVT automatically when a fixed tariff ends.
If my supplier cut SVT unit rates, should I still switch?
Possibly. A cut improves your SVT, but another supplier may still offer a better deal for your region and usage. Compare the full costs (unit rate and standing charge) before deciding.
Will switching affect my supply or smart meter?
Switching supplier doesn’t interrupt your gas or electricity supply. In most cases your meter stays in place. Smart meters generally continue to work; if you’re unsure, compare options and check what each tariff supports.
How often can SVT rates change?
Suppliers can change SVT prices, but they must follow rules and communicate changes. Many changes align to price cap periods, though other adjustments can happen.
What details do I need to compare accurately?
Your postcode is the key starting point. If you have them, your annual kWh figures (or a recent bill) will improve accuracy. If not, you can still start with postcode results and refine later.
What people like about comparing with EnergyPlus.co.uk
“The results were clear and tailored to my postcode. I could see how unit rates and standing charges compared.”
— Homeowner, Greater Manchester
“Helpful explanation of SVT vs fixed — and no confusing jargon. Switching felt straightforward.”
— Tenant, Bristol
“I didn’t realise my standing charge made such a difference. Comparing properly helped me choose.”
— Family household, Glasgow
Ready to see if you can beat your SVT?
If suppliers have cut SVT unit rates this month, it’s a good time to check whether a fixed tariff now offers better value in your region. Compare whole-of-market home energy deals with results matched to your postcode.
- Check tariffs in minutes
- See unit rate and standing charge comparisons
- Make an informed choice for your household
Get your postcode results
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