What’s the difference between a fixed and a variable (flexible) energy tariff?

A fixed tariff locks in your unit rates and standing charge for a set term (often 12–24 months), helping you budget and protect against price rises. A variable (flexible) tariff can go up or down over time, typically following wholesale costs or the Ofgem price cap, so your bills may change from month to month. If you want certainty, fixed can be better; if you want flexibility and to benefit from falls, variable may suit you.

Are fixed tariffs really cheaper than variable tariffs in the UK right now?

It depends on current market conditions and your region. Sometimes fixed deals undercut the variable (price-capped) tariff, especially when suppliers compete for new customers. Other times, the variable tariff can be lower, particularly after market prices fall. The best approach is to compare today’s unit rates and standing charges for your postcode and usage.

When is it a good time to switch to a fixed deal?

A fixed deal can be a strong option when (1) the fixed rate is at or below your current variable tariff, (2) you want predictable bills for budgeting, and (3) you’re comfortable staying for the term. Always check exit fees and whether the tariff allows penalty-free switching if prices fall.

What should I check before choosing an energy tariff deal?

Compare the unit rate (p/kWh) and standing charge (p/day), contract length, exit fees, payment method (Direct Debit vs PAYG), and any discounts or add-ons. Also confirm whether rates are fixed for the full term and if there are fair usage clauses. Use your annual kWh usage (or an estimate) to compare total yearly cost—not just headline prices.

Can I switch energy suppliers if I’m in a fixed contract?

Yes, but many fixed tariffs have exit fees if you leave before the end date. You can usually switch penalty-free in the final 49 days of your contract (your supplier should notify you). Always confirm exit fees and timing before you switch.

How long does it take to switch energy tariff or supplier in the UK?

Most switches complete within around 5 working days under the faster switching process, although timings can vary. Your energy supply won’t be interrupted—only the billing changes. Make sure your meter readings are accurate around the switch date to avoid estimated bills.

Will switching tariff affect my smart meter?

In most cases your smart meter will continue to work normally after switching. Occasionally, some smart functionality (like automatic readings) may be temporarily limited, but suppliers can usually resolve this. If you have a SMETS2 meter, it’s generally interoperable across suppliers.

Are the cheapest energy deals always the best option?

Not always. The cheapest deal on paper may include high exit fees, shorter price guarantees, or higher standing charges that don’t suit your usage. Consider the total annual cost for your home, contract flexibility, customer service, and any perks (like greener electricity) before deciding.

How can I reduce my energy bills alongside switching tariff?

Combine a competitive tariff with simple savings: improve insulation, reduce heating flow temperature (if suitable), use smart heating controls, run appliances on eco modes, and replace halogen bulbs with LEDs. If you have solar panels, using more electricity during daylight can increase self-consumption and cut imports from the grid.

Where can I compare fixed and variable energy tariff deals on EnergyPlus?

You can start your comparison on EnergyPlus by visiting https://www.energyplus.co.uk/ and following the relevant energy or solar guides to find information on tariffs, what to look for, and how to choose the best option for your home.

Best Fix and Fall Energy Tariff Deals UK (Whole of Market)

Compare UK home energy tariffs designed for price certainty now, with the option to benefit if prices fall later. Get tailored fix-and-fall style deals from whole-of-market suppliers—based on your postcode and usage.

Compare fixed, tracker and flexible tariffs side-by-side
See exit fees, unit rates and standing charges clearly
Whole-of-market comparison for UK households (not business)
Quick form—takes around 2 minutes

Compare fix & fall deals How fix & fall tariffs work

EnergyPlus.co.uk is a comparison service. Availability, rates and savings depend on your meter type, region and supplier acceptance. Always check tariff terms, including exit fees.

Compare the best fix and fall energy tariff deals in the UK

“Fix and fall” isn’t a single official tariff type—it's a popular way to describe deals that aim to lock in certainty while keeping options open if prices drop. In practice, UK households usually compare:

Fixed tariffs (unit rates and standing charges fixed for a term)
Tracker tariffs (prices move with a published benchmark or market index)
Flexible / variable tariffs (supplier can change prices; often aligned with the Ofgem Price Cap where applicable)

The best option depends on your region, meter type (credit meter, prepay, smart meter), and usage pattern. Complete the form and we’ll return options that suit your home—clearly showing unit rates, standing charges, contract length and exit fees.

Tip: If your priority is “fix now, benefit if prices fall”, compare a shorter fixed term versus a tracker. A longer fix can be great for budgeting, but may include higher rates or exit fees.

Get your tailored tariff results

Tell us a few details and we’ll compare whole-of-market home energy tariffs available in your area.

Already on a fixed deal? Have a quick look at your current tariff end date and any exit fees—switching early can reduce savings.

Why households look for “fix and fall” style tariffs

Budget certainty

Fixed tariffs can stabilise your unit rates and standing charges for the agreed term—helpful if you prefer predictable bills.

Flex if the market drops

Shorter fixes or trackers can reduce the risk of feeling “stuck” if prices fall. Comparing exit fees is key.

Clearer comparisons

Looking at real p/kWh rates, standing charges, and contract terms often beats focusing on headline savings alone.

Better fit for your home

Your region and meter type can affect availability and pricing. Whole-of-market helps you see more options.

Avoid surprise changes

On variable deals, rates can change. Fixed deals remove that uncertainty for the agreed period.

Switch at the right time

If your current fixed term is ending, you can often line up a switch to avoid rolling onto a pricier default tariff.

How fix, tracker and flexible tariffs work (UK guide)

Because “fix and fall” is a goal rather than a standard product label, it helps to understand the common UK tariff types before you compare.

1) Fixed tariffs

Your unit rate (p/kWh) and standing charge (p/day) are fixed for a set term (e.g. 12 months). You may pay an exit fee if you leave early. Good for predictable budgeting.

2) Tracker tariffs

Your price moves up or down based on a published tracker (for example, a wholesale index or benchmark set out in the tariff terms). This can be a route to benefit if prices fall—but your bills can rise too.

3) Flexible / variable tariffs

Prices can change. Many customers end up here when a fixed term ends. It can be convenient, but is often less competitive than shopping around.

Quick comparison: what matters for value

What to compare	Why it matters	Where to find it
Unit rate (p/kWh)	Main driver of cost for most households—especially higher usage homes.	Tariff details / key facts
Standing charge (p/day)	You pay it regardless of usage; can make a “cheap unit rate” less attractive.	Tariff details / key facts
Exit fees	Crucial if you want the freedom to switch if prices fall.	Contract / tariff terms
Contract length	Shorter terms can reduce risk; longer terms can improve certainty.	Tariff name and key facts
Payment method	Direct Debit vs pay on receipt or prepay can change pricing and availability.	Eligibility / tariff setup

Plain-English definition: A “fix and fall” approach usually means choosing either a short fixed tariff (so you can review sooner) or a tracker (so your rate can move down), while carefully checking exit fees and overall costs.

What to check before choosing a fix-and-fall style deal

Exit fees and switching flexibility

If your aim is to benefit when prices drop, exit fees can make switching uneconomical.

Look for fees per fuel (gas and electricity) and when they apply
Check if fees reduce nearer the end of the term
Consider a shorter fix if you expect to switch within 6–12 months

Total cost beats headline savings

Two tariffs can look similar, but differ significantly once standing charge and usage are applied.

Compare annualised cost based on your typical usage
Standing charge matters more for low usage homes
Unit rate matters more for higher usage homes

Meter type and smart features

Some tariffs depend on smart meters or specific payment methods.

Credit meter vs prepay can affect availability
Smart meters can enable better readings and some tariff options
Economy 7 / multi-rate setups need a like-for-like comparison

Terms and price-change rules

Especially for trackers, you should know exactly what drives price movements.

What the tariff tracks (benchmark/index) and how often it updates
Any caps/floors or limits (where offered)
Notice periods and how changes are communicated

Regional price differences across the UK

Energy prices vary by distribution region. That’s why the “best fix and fall energy tariff deal” can differ between, say, Greater London, the North West, Scotland or Wales. Your postcode helps us show accurate options for your area.

What changes by region

Standing charges and unit rates
Supplier availability and tariff eligibility
Network costs built into tariffs

If you’ve recently moved: Your new address may have different rates even with the same supplier. Comparing again can make sense.

How to get an accurate comparison

Enter your postcode (to match your region)
Share your contact details so we can provide your results
Review key terms: rates, standing charge, exit fees

Ready to start? Use the comparison form above.

FAQs: fix and fall energy tariffs in the UK

Is “fix and fall” an official tariff type?

Not usually. It’s a shorthand for aiming to fix prices for certainty while keeping a path to switch or benefit if prices drop. That often means comparing a shorter fixed tariff versus a tracker, and paying close attention to exit fees.

What’s better: tracker or fixed?

It depends on your risk tolerance. Fixed offers stable pricing. Tracker can move down if prices fall, but can rise too. If you want certainty with flexibility, a shorter fixed term can be a middle ground.

Do fixed tariffs protect me from all bill changes?

A fixed tariff typically fixes unit rates and standing charges for the term, but your bill can still change based on how much energy you use. Always read the tariff terms for any exceptions.

Will I pay an exit fee if I switch early?

Many fixed tariffs include exit fees, often per fuel. Some trackers also have fees. If you’re looking for a fix-and-fall approach, comparing exit fees is one of the most important steps.

Can I compare if I’m on prepayment?

Yes—availability can be more limited than Direct Debit tariffs, and pricing can differ. Enter your details and we’ll return available home energy options for your postcode and meter type.

How quickly can I switch energy supplier?

Timelines vary by supplier and circumstances, but many switches complete within days. If you’re in a fixed term, check whether exit fees apply before switching.

Still deciding? Jump back to what to check before choosing.

What customers like about comparing with EnergyPlus

“The results made it easy to compare standing charges and exit fees—not just the headline price.”

Homeowner, Manchester

“I wanted the option to switch if prices changed. Seeing trackers and shorter fixes together really helped.”

Tenant, Bristol

“Quick form, and the comparison felt tailored to my postcode and meter type.”

Homeowner, Glasgow

Trust indicators Whole-of-market home energy comparison • Clear presentation of key tariff terms • UK-focused support and guidance.

Ready to find a fix-and-fall style tariff for your home?

Compare fixed, tracker and flexible tariffs available in your postcode. See key terms clearly, then choose the deal that suits your household.

Whole-of-market home energy comparison
Exit fees and contract length shown upfront
Designed for UK households (not business)

Start my comparison

Prefer to read first? Jump to how it works.

Back to Solar Energy

Updated on 14 Feb 2026