SSE Energy (UK) — Supplier Guide, Prices and How to Switch
Thinking about joining or leaving SSE Energy? Use this in-depth guide to understand tariffs, billing, smart meters and support — then compare live deals with Energy Plus to find a plan that fits your home and budget.
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About SSE Energy in Great Britain
SSE is one of the UK’s best-known domestic energy brands, with a heritage dating back decades as part of Scottish & Southern Energy. In January 2020, SSE’s household energy business (SSE Energy Services) became part of OVO Energy. Many customers have continued to see the SSE brand during and after this transition, while service and systems have been integrated within the OVO group. SSE-branded domestic supply serves households across England, Scotland and Wales (not Northern Ireland).
On this page you’ll find a clear overview of SSE’s typical products and support, plus practical steps for comparing prices and switching with Energy Plus.
Why consider SSE?
- Well-established UK supplier brand, now part of the OVO Energy group
- Range of payment options including Direct Debit, card and prepayment
- Smart meter rollout with in-home display for near real-time usage
- Online account management and paperless billing options
- Support for Economy 7 and Economy 10 meters where available
Who is it for?
- Households seeking a familiar, mainstream supplier
- Homes that want dual fuel convenience (gas + electricity)
- Customers who prefer fixed-price certainty when available
- Prepayment and smart prepayment users needing flexible top-ups
What to compare
- Unit rates (p/kWh) and daily standing charges
- Fixed vs variable plans, and any exit fees
- Estimated annual cost for your exact usage
- Perks such as online discounts or green electricity options
Tariffs & Prices
Like most UK suppliers, SSE-branded plans typically include variable and fixed-price options (availability can change based on market conditions):
- Variable tariffs: Prices can go up or down in line with wholesale costs and regulatory controls such as the Ofgem Energy Price Cap. Variable plans rarely charge exit fees.
- Fixed tariffs: Unit rates and standing charges are locked for a set period (e.g., 12 months). Fixed plans may include exit fees if you leave early.
- Economy 7: Off-peak night rates for homes with storage heaters or those able to shift usage to overnight hours.
- Prepayment & smart prepay: Pay as you go using a key/card or via smart top-ups. Rates and standing charges may differ from credit meter plans.
Every household’s usage pattern is unique. For an accurate price comparison, have your annual kWh figures handy (from a recent bill) and run a live quote. Energy Plus compares across multiple suppliers to help you find a deal that suits your home.
Smart Meters with SSE
SSE supports the national smart meter rollout. Smart meters automatically send readings, reduce estimated bills and include an in-home display to help you track usage and costs. Benefits can include:
- Accurate bills without manual readings
- Near real-time consumption insights via display or app
- Access to smart-only tariffs or smart prepayment features
Installation is typically free as part of the UK rollout. Appointment availability varies by region and meter type.
Energy Mix & Sustainability
Within the OVO group, SSE-branded domestic supply may offer plans that include renewable electricity options, subject to availability. The exact fuel mix can vary by tariff and period; suppliers publish annual Fuel Mix Disclosures showing the sources used to supply electricity. Choosing a plan that matches your sustainability goals can be one part of reducing your footprint alongside improving home efficiency.
Billing, Payments & Discounts
- Payment methods: Monthly Direct Debit, on-demand card payments, and prepayment options are commonly available.
- Paperless billing: Manage your account online and receive digital bills.
- Meter readings: Submit readings via your online account unless you have a smart meter sending them automatically.
- Warm Home Discount: Eligible households may receive a one-off rebate each winter under the government’s scheme with participating suppliers. Eligibility rules and participation can change each year.
Tip: Setting up a Direct Debit and choosing paperless billing can sometimes unlock small discounts compared to other payment options.
Customer Support & Accessibility
- Priority Services Register (PSR): Extra help for eligible customers, including those with medical needs, disabilities or in vulnerable situations.
- Prepayment support: Guidance for emergency credit, top-ups and switching from prepayment to credit meter (subject to eligibility and checks).
- Complaints: If an issue isn’t resolved, you can escalate through the supplier’s complaints process and, if needed after 8 weeks or deadlock, to the Energy Ombudsman.
Moving Home with SSE
Whether you’re moving into a property currently supplied by SSE or moving out of one, remember to:
- Take date-stamped opening/closing meter photos
- Notify the supplier with your move date and readings
- Provide forwarding details for your final bill
New address? It’s a great time to compare and switch, as your usage and needs may change.
How to Switch to or from SSE with Energy Plus
- Tell us about your home: Postcode, property type and your current supplier/tariff if known.
- Enter your usage: kWh figures from a recent bill (or use our estimate and refine later).
- Compare plans: Review fixed vs variable options, estimated annual costs and any exit fees.
- Apply online: We pass your details securely to the chosen supplier to start your switch.
- Cooling-off: Most domestic switches include a 14-day cooling-off period if you change your mind.
There’s usually no engineer visit required for a standard switch, and your energy supply won’t be interrupted.
Key Considerations Before You Choose
- Exit fees: Some fixed deals charge a fee per fuel if you leave early.
- Standing charge: A daily fee that applies regardless of how much energy you use.
- Unit rates: The price per kWh. Shifting usage to off-peak times can help on multi-rate meters like Economy 7.
- Contract length: Commonly 12 months for fixed tariffs, but terms vary.
- Support needs: If you require additional support, ask about the Priority Services Register.
Frequently Asked Questions about SSE Energy
Is SSE Energy still supplying domestic customers in Great Britain?
Yes. SSE Energy Services became part of OVO Energy in 2020. Many customers have remained on SSE-branded accounts, with services managed within the OVO group. Availability of new SSE-branded tariffs can vary; our comparison shows current options for your postcode.
Are SSE’s prices cheaper than other suppliers?
Prices change frequently across the market and depend on your usage, location, meter type and payment method. The best way to know is to compare live rates. Energy Plus will show your estimated annual cost for SSE alongside other suppliers.
Does SSE offer 100% renewable electricity?
Some plans may include renewable electricity or green add-ons, depending on availability and terms at the time. Check the tariff details and the supplier’s Fuel Mix Disclosure for the latest information.
Can I get a smart meter with SSE?
Yes, SSE supports smart meter installations subject to regional and meter-type availability. Smart meters send readings automatically and can enable smart-only tariffs and features.
Do I pay exit fees if I leave SSE?
Exit fees depend on your current plan. Variable tariffs rarely have exit fees, while fixed tariffs often do. Energy Plus highlights any exit fee before you switch.
How do prepayment top-ups work?
Traditional prepayment typically uses a key or card at local top-up points. Smart prepayment can allow app, online or phone top-ups as well as in-store. Availability varies by meter and plan.
What support is available if I’m struggling to pay?
Contact the supplier as early as possible. Options may include payment plans, advice on energy efficiency, and signposting to the Warm Home Discount (if eligible and if the supplier participates). You can also register for the Priority Services Register if you qualify.
Important Information
Energy Plus is an independent energy comparison service. We are not affiliated with or endorsed by SSE, SSE plc or OVO Energy. Tariff availability, prices, fees and terms change regularly and may vary by region, meter type and payment method. Always review the latest tariff information and the supplier’s terms before switching.
Brand names and logos are the property of their respective owners. Information on this page is provided for guidance and may be subject to change.
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