Smart meter energy tariffs UK: compare and switch
Compare whole-of-market smart meter tariffs for your home in minutes. Check eligibility, see whether you’d benefit from half-hourly pricing, and request personalised comparisons from EnergyPlus.
- Whole-of-market comparison for UK homes (not business)
- Smart meter friendly: standard, fixed, variable and smart/half-hourly tariffs
- Switch guidance with clear pros/cons—no confusing jargon
- Fast form—get tailored options for your postcode and usage
Comparisons for UK domestic properties. Tariff availability varies by supplier, meter type and region. We’ll use your details to provide relevant options.
Compare smart meter energy tariffs for your home
If you have a smart meter (or you’re due to get one), you may be eligible for smart meter tariffs that use your readings more accurately—sometimes even in half-hourly blocks. That can be a good fit if your household can shift energy use to cheaper periods.
EnergyPlus is a UK whole-of-market comparison service for domestic energy. Tell us a few details and we’ll help you compare options that suit your meter setup, region and preferences (for example: fixed vs variable, smart time-of-use vs standard tariffs).
What you’ll need (takes about 2 minutes)
- Your postcode (so we can check regional pricing)
- Whether you have electric only or gas + electricity
- Rough usage (or your latest bill if handy)
- Contact details to send your comparison options
Want to understand the difference between a smart meter and a smart tariff first? Jump to How smart tariffs work.
Get personalised smart tariff comparisons
Fill in the form and we’ll match you with relevant smart meter tariff options available for your area and meter type.
Prefer not to switch to time-of-use?
No problem. We can also compare fixed and standard variable tariffs that work with smart meters, so you can choose what fits your household routine.
Tip: If you have solar panels or are considering them, smart tariffs can affect how valuable certain usage patterns are. See also: EnergyPlus solar guides.
Why compare smart meter tariffs?
Smart meter tariffs aren’t automatically cheaper—but for the right household they can be more efficient, more accurate and more flexible. Comparing properly helps you avoid switching into a tariff that doesn’t match your daily routine.
More accurate bills
Smart meter readings reduce estimated bills. That can make budgeting easier and help you spot changes in usage sooner.
Potential savings with time-of-use
Some smart tariffs offer cheaper rates at certain times. If you can run appliances off-peak, you may benefit.
Better fit for modern homes
EV charging, heat pumps, storage heaters and flexible working patterns can suit tariffs that reward shifting consumption.
Whole-of-market view
Smart tariff availability changes frequently. A broad comparison helps you see what’s actually available in your region.
Avoid tariff mismatches
Some time-of-use tariffs have higher peak rates. We’ll highlight trade-offs so you can decide with confidence.
Clear switching steps
We focus on what matters: contract length, rates, standing charge, exit fees, meter compatibility and billing support.
How smart meter tariffs work (UK)
A smart meter records energy use and can send readings automatically. A smart tariff is a pricing plan designed to work with those readings—sometimes offering different rates by time of day (time-of-use), sometimes offering features like app-based tracking.
Smart meter vs smart tariff
What we look at when comparing
- Meter compatibility: smart meter status, tariff requirements, and any limitations.
- Region and network costs: prices vary by area due to local distribution charges.
- Tariff structure: single-rate vs multi-rate/time-of-use, plus any minimum terms.
- Total cost signals: unit rate(s), standing charge and any exit fees/discounts.
- Practical fit: whether your household can realistically use cheaper periods.
Important
A smart tariff is not automatically best. If most of your usage happens at peak times (evenings), a time-of-use tariff could cost more.
Types of smart meter energy tariffs you can compare
Suppliers describe tariffs differently. When you compare smart meter tariffs in the UK, you’ll typically see variations of the following for domestic customers.
Smart-compatible fixed tariffs
A fixed unit rate and standing charge for a set term (often 12–24 months). Smart meter just ensures accurate billing; pricing is usually single-rate.
- Best for: stability and budgeting
- Watch for: exit fees, higher standing charges
Smart time-of-use tariffs
Different rates at different times (and sometimes different days). Often based on half-hourly readings.
- Best for: shifting usage (laundry/dishwasher/EV charging)
- Watch for: higher peak rates if you can’t shift
Smart variable tariffs
Rates can change (with notice) and are not fixed for a term. Smart meter helps with accurate readings and consumption insights.
- Best for: flexibility, no long contract
- Watch for: price changes, less predictability
Multi-rate / economy style options
Some homes have existing multi-rate setups (often linked to storage heating). Smart meters can support multi-rate readings where applicable.
- Best for: storage heaters and off-peak demand
- Watch for: suitability if your heating system has changed
Quick check: standing charge vs unit rate
When comparing, don’t look at the unit rate alone. A lower unit rate can be offset by a higher standing charge. We consider both when presenting options.
Who can get a smart meter tariff in the UK?
Most UK households can access smart meter compatible tariffs, but specific smart tariffs (especially half-hourly or time-of-use deals) may have extra requirements.
Typically required
- A domestic supply address in Great Britain
- A compatible meter setup (many smart tariffs require smart readings)
- Ability to provide readings/data (for time-of-use, often half-hourly data)
- Passing supplier checks (standard switching checks and credit processes where applicable)
May affect availability
- Prepayment status and meter configuration
- Complex metering (e.g., multiple meters or certain legacy setups)
- Economy-style multi-rate arrangements
- Supplier-specific rules and regional rollout constraints
If you don’t have a smart meter yet
You can still compare suitable tariffs now. Some suppliers may offer a smart tariff once a compatible smart meter is installed and fully communicating. We’ll help you understand what’s realistic for your home.
Common mistakes when comparing smart tariffs
Smart tariffs can be excellent—but only if they match your household’s usage. These are the most common pitfalls we help people avoid.
Only checking the headline rate
You need to consider standing charge, peak/off-peak rates, and how your actual usage falls across those time bands.
Choosing time-of-use without shifting usage
If cooking, washing and heating mainly happens at peak times, a time-of-use tariff can increase your bills.
Ignoring contract terms
Exit fees, term length and payment methods matter—especially if you might move home or change your setup.
Forgetting regional pricing differences
Prices vary across UK regions due to network costs. Postcode is essential for a meaningful comparison.
Assuming all smart meters are the same
Compatibility can vary by setup and supplier requirements. We’ll help identify practical options.
Not checking both fuels
If you have gas and electricity, it’s worth comparing the best combination—not just electricity alone.
Smart meter energy tariffs UK: FAQs
Are smart tariffs cheaper than standard tariffs?
Not always. Some are cheaper if you can use more energy during off-peak times. If your usage is mostly at peak times, a standard fixed tariff can be better value.
Do I need a smart meter to switch tariffs?
You can often switch to standard tariffs without a smart meter. But many time-of-use or half-hourly tariffs require a compatible smart meter that can provide the right data.
What is half-hourly electricity data?
It’s a more detailed record of electricity usage, broken into 30-minute periods. Some smart tariffs price those periods differently, rewarding off-peak use.
Will my smart meter stop working if I switch?
In many cases it continues to work, but functionality can depend on your meter and supplier systems. We’ll factor in practical compatibility when discussing options.
Can I compare gas smart tariffs too?
Yes. Many households compare both fuels together. We’ll look at the best overall combination for your home, including standing charges and unit rates.
How long does switching usually take?
Switching time varies by supplier and circumstances. We’ll outline next steps and what to expect once you’ve chosen a suitable option.
Still unsure?
Use the form above to tell us your postcode and contact details. We’ll help you compare smart meter tariff options that make sense for your household.
Trusted help for comparing smart meter tariffs
When you’re considering time-of-use rates and half-hourly pricing, clarity matters. We focus on explaining the trade-offs so you can choose what fits your home.
“We didn’t realise our evening usage was so high. EnergyPlus helped us avoid a time-of-use tariff that would’ve cost more.”
Homeowner, Greater Manchester
“Simple form, clear explanation, and we found a fixed tariff with a better standing charge for our postcode.”
Homeowner, Kent
“Helpful guidance on what a smart tariff actually means. We switched to a tariff that suits our off-peak routine.”
Homeowner, West Midlands
What you can expect from EnergyPlus
- Whole-of-market approach for UK domestic energy comparisons
- Clear, practical guidance on smart tariffs vs standard tariffs
- Focus on meter compatibility, regional pricing and household fit
Ready to compare smart meter energy tariffs?
Get tailored options for your postcode, meter setup and household routine. Compare smart tariffs and standard tariffs side-by-side—then choose what suits your home.
- Domestic comparison (UK homes)
- Smart and time-of-use tariff guidance
- Quick form—no jargon
We’ll use your details to provide relevant tariff comparisons. Availability and pricing vary by region and supplier.
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