Cheapest green electricity tariff in the UK: switch now

Key takeaway 1

If you want the lowest cost, focus on unit rate (p/kWh) and standing charge (p/day) for your region—then check exit fees and contract length.

Key takeaway 2

If you want stronger green credentials, look beyond labels. Check fuel mix, how renewables are matched, and whether the supplier supports additional renewable generation.

Key takeaway 3

Switching is usually straightforward: your electricity stays on and you typically won’t need an engineer visit unless there’s a meter issue.

Compare green electricity prices (whole-of-market) and switch

Use the form to get a tailored shortlist of green electricity tariffs for your home. We’ll base the comparison on your postcode and basic details so you can see prices that match your local network and meter set-up.

What you’ll need

• Your postcode (changes regional pricing)
• Rough annual usage in kWh (or your latest bill)
• Meter type (smart / standard / prepay) if you know it
• Whether you prefer fixed or variable pricing

Two realistic examples (with assumptions)

Get a personalised green tariff quote

Tell us a few details and we’ll show options available at your address. This helps avoid “headline” prices that don’t apply in your region.

1) Start with price (for your exact details)

• Check both unit rate and standing charge.
• Confirm your region (prices vary across Great Britain; Northern Ireland has a different market).
• Confirm payment method (Direct Debit vs receipt of bill vs prepay).
• Confirm meter type (smart/prepay/single-rate/two-rate like Economy 7).

2) Then check what “green” means on that tariff

• Fuel mix disclosure: what % renewables, nuclear, gas, etc.
• Renewable matching: how the supplier backs customer demand with renewable generation evidence.
• Additionality: does the supplier invest in new renewables or just buy certificates?
• Any offsets: offsets can vary in quality—treat them as a “nice to have”, not the core proof.

3) Avoid the common deal-breakers

• Exit fees if you might move or want flexibility.
• Long fixed terms if your circumstances may change.
• Time-of-use tariffs if you can’t shift usage (these can be great for EVs, less so otherwise).
• Prepay constraints: fewer tariffs, and eligibility can differ.

Quick checklist: who it suits

• You can pay by Direct Debit (often best priced).
• You’re happy to choose between lowest cost vs strongest green credentials (or find a balance).
• You know your meter type (or can check your bill).
• You’re not locked into a fixed deal with a high exit fee (or the saving outweighs it).

Who it might not suit (or needs extra care)

• You’re on prepayment and need a like-for-like tariff (availability varies).
• You have Economy 7 or a complex meter set-up—compare using your day/night split.
• You have an EV/heat pump: a time-of-use deal may beat standard “cheap” tariffs.
• You’re in a rented property: make sure you’re responsible for the energy bills and have account authority.

Exit fees can wipe out a saving

If you’re currently on a fixed tariff, check whether you’ll pay an exit fee per fuel. If the fee is high, the “cheapest” green deal may only be cheaper after several months.

Standing charges hit low users hardest

If you use relatively little electricity, a tariff with a slightly higher unit rate but lower standing charge can work out cheaper overall.

Time-of-use tariffs aren’t “cheap for everyone”

They can be excellent for EV charging overnight, but if most of your usage is at peak times, your bill can rise. Always compare using your likely usage pattern.

Is “100% renewable electricity” the same as getting renewable power to my home?

Not physically. UK electricity is delivered via the national grid, so suppliers generally match your consumption with renewable generation evidence and accounting. The “greenness” also depends on the supplier’s sourcing and wider commitments.

Will a green tariff always cost more?

No. Some renewable-backed tariffs are competitively priced, and sometimes among the cheapest for certain regions and usage levels. Prices change frequently, so the only reliable check is a postcode-based comparison.

Do green tariffs include gas?

This page focuses on electricity. Some households still need gas for heating and hot water, and some suppliers offer “green gas” or offsets. Treat gas claims carefully and compare total annual costs across both fuels if you’re dual fuel.

How long does switching electricity supplier take in the UK?

It varies, but switching is typically completed within days rather than weeks. Your electricity supply should not be interrupted during the switch. Your new supplier will handle the process and let you know your start date.

Can I switch if I’m renting?

Usually yes if you’re the bill payer and your name is on the energy account. If energy is included in your rent or the landlord controls the account, you typically can’t switch.

What if I have a prepayment meter?

You can still compare and potentially switch, but tariff availability can be more limited and eligibility rules differ by supplier. If you have debt on the meter or account, there may be restrictions.

Should I choose fixed or variable for a green electricity tariff?

Fixed tariffs offer price certainty for the term but may include exit fees. Variable tariffs can change (in line with the supplier’s terms and wider market conditions). The best choice depends on your risk tolerance and how long you expect to stay.

Does having solar panels change what I should pick?

Potentially. If you export electricity, you may want to compare export tariffs alongside your import (what you buy). Import prices still matter, especially in winter. Ask for time-of-use options if you have a battery or can shift usage.

Editorial responsibility

Written by

EnergyPlus Editorial Team

Reviewed by

Energy Specialist

Last updated

May 2026

How we assess “cheapest green” (and limitations)

This guide is designed to help you find the cheapest available to your home while understanding what you’re buying when you choose a green tariff.

• Cheapest is assessed using estimated annual cost based on unit rate + standing charge for your region and tariff type.
• Any example costs on this page are illustrative and use the formula: (annual kWh × unit rate) + (365 × standing charge).
• Green is assessed using publicly available information such as fuel mix disclosures and supplier statements. “Green” standards are not identical across suppliers.
• Limitations: tariffs change frequently; availability varies by meter type, payment method, and eligibility checks. We cannot guarantee a tariff remains available or the cheapest by the time you apply.