Cheapest fixed energy deal for new customers (UK guide)

Find the lowest-cost fixed tariff you can actually get—based on your postcode, meter and payment method. Compare whole-of-market options and switch with confidence.

  • See what “cheapest fixed” really means (and when it’s not best)
  • Understand exit fees, standing charges, smart/standard meters and payment method impacts
  • Get a tailored quote in minutes—no guesswork
Get your fixed tariff quote How to choose a fixed deal

Prices are personalised. The cheapest fixed deal depends on your region, usage, meter type and payment method. Estimates shown for guidance—terms and availability vary by supplier.

Fast answer: what is the cheapest fixed energy deal for new customers?

In the UK, the cheapest fixed energy deal for new customers is the tariff with the lowest estimated annual cost for your postcode, usage, meter type and payment method—after accounting for standing charges and any exit fees.

Important: “New customer” deals can appear cheaper but may be restricted (e.g., online-only, smart meter required, Direct Debit only, specific regions, or limited to customers who haven’t been with the supplier in a set period). Always check eligibility and key terms.

Key takeaways (UK-specific)

Cheapest = personalised

Unit rates and standing charges vary by region. Your “cheapest fixed” in London may not be cheapest in the North West.

Standing charge can dominate

Low usage households often pay more attention to standing charge than unit rate—especially in all-electric flats.

Exit fees change the maths

A fixed deal with a lower annual estimate can cost more if you need to move, change tariff, or switch again soon.

When a fixed deal is usually a good fit

  • You want predictable rates for 12–24 months.
  • You can commit to staying put (or you’re comfortable with possible exit fees).
  • You’re on an expensive standard variable tariff and a competitive fix is available.
  • You’re happy to manage bills online and pay by Direct Debit (often required).

When a fixed deal may not suit

  • You expect to move home within the fixed term.
  • You want flexibility to switch quickly if prices fall.
  • You have prepayment or a complex meter set-up with limited tariff choice.
  • You’re unsure of your usage (a fix can still work, but be cautious with estimates).

Compare the cheapest fixed deals available to you

Because fixed prices vary by region and eligibility, the most reliable way to find the cheapest fixed deal is to run a personalised comparison. We’ll show fixed tariffs we can access across the market, then you choose what fits.

What you’ll need (takes 2 minutes)

  • Postcode (sets your network region & standing charge area)
  • Payment method (Direct Debit usually cheapest)
  • Meter type (credit / smart / prepayment; Economy 7 if applicable)
  • Usage (we can estimate if you don’t know)

Tip: If you’re currently on a fixed tariff, check your exit fee and whether you’re in the final 49 days of your contract (many suppliers waive exit fees then). Always confirm in your account or paperwork.

Get your fixed tariff quote

Start your comparison

By submitting, you confirm this is for a UK home energy comparison. We’ll use your details to provide quotes and contact you about your comparison. You can opt out at any time.

What happens after you compare?

  1. We show fixed tariffs you’re eligible for, with estimated annual cost and key features (term length, exit fees, payment method).
  2. You pick a deal based on price and flexibility—not just the headline unit rate.
  3. Switching is handled for you (in most cases you won’t need an engineer visit; your supply continues as normal).

Compare fixed deals like-for-like (what to check)

The cheapest fixed deal isn’t always the best value for you. Use this table to compare the essentials that most affect your total cost and flexibility.

What you’re comparing Why it matters What to look for Common catch
Estimated annual cost Best single number for comparing tariffs using your usage profile. Use your actual kWh if possible; otherwise use a realistic estimate. If your usage is off, the “cheapest” ranking can change.
Standing charge A daily cost that can outweigh unit rate for low users. Lower is usually better—especially if you use less energy. Some “cheap unit rate” fixes have higher standing charges.
Unit rate (p/kWh) Your price per kWh of energy used. Check both gas and electricity; Economy 7 has day/night rates. Some tariffs have different rates by payment method.
Fixed term length Longer fixes can be more stable but less flexible. 12 months for flexibility; 24 months for longer certainty (if competitively priced). Longer term + exit fees can be costly if your plans change.
Exit fees Fees for leaving before the end of your fix. Low or zero if you may switch again or move home. Often charged per fuel (gas and electricity separately).
Eligibility Not every fixed deal is open to every household. Check meter type, region, and payment method. “New customer” can exclude recent customers of that supplier.

Decision checklist: choosing the right “cheapest” fixed deal

Prioritise price (when it makes sense)

  • You’ll stay in the property for the full term.
  • Exit fees are low (or you’re comfortable with them).
  • Payment method and meter requirements match your setup.
  • The standing charge isn’t inflated for your usage level.

Prioritise flexibility (even if it’s slightly higher)

  • You might move, renovate, or change occupancy.
  • You have uncertain usage (new home, heat pump install, working from home changes).
  • You want the option to switch again quickly if the market shifts.
  • You’re comparing 12-month fixes with manageable exit fees.

Two realistic scenarios (with numbers)

These examples show why “cheapest” depends on standing charges, usage and exit fees. Figures are illustrative estimates (not live tariffs).

Scenario A: low-use flat (electricity only)

Assumptions
1,800 kWh/yr electricity; no gas. Paying by Direct Debit. Comparing two 12-month fixes.
Tariff 1 (low unit rate, higher standing charge)
Unit 24p/kWh; standing charge 70p/day → annual est: (1,800×£0.24) + (365×£0.70) = £432 + £255.50 = £687.50
Tariff 2 (slightly higher unit rate, lower standing charge)
Unit 26p/kWh; standing charge 45p/day → annual est: (1,800×£0.26) + (365×£0.45) = £468 + £164.25 = £632.25

What this shows: For low usage, a lower standing charge can beat a cheaper unit rate.

Scenario B: family home (dual fuel) + exit fee risk

Assumptions
2,900 kWh/yr electricity; 12,000 kWh/yr gas. 24-month fix vs 12-month fix. Possible move after 10 months.
Tariff A (24 months, cheaper annual estimate, exit fees)
Est. annual £1,520. Exit fees: £150 per fuel → £300 if you leave early.
Tariff B (12 months, slightly higher annual estimate, low exit fees)
Est. annual £1,565. Exit fees: £0–£50 total (varies).

What this shows: If you move after 10 months, Tariff A can end up effectively costing more once exit fees are added—even if it looked “cheapest” per year.

Costs, exclusions and common pitfalls (UK)

Fixed tariffs can be straightforward, but the details matter. Here are the most common reasons a “cheap” fixed deal doesn’t work out as expected.

Direct Debit vs pay on receipt

The cheapest fixed deals are often Direct Debit only. If you prefer paying on receipt, your options may be limited and prices can differ.

Prepayment tariffs

Prepay customers may see fewer fixed tariffs, and some deals require a smart prepayment meter. Always check eligibility before switching.

Economy 7 / multi-rate

If you have Economy 7, the cheapest tariff depends on your night-time usage share. A low night share can make E7 expensive.

Standing charges vary by region

Standing charges can differ significantly across Great Britain. Comparing using a national “average” can mislead—use your postcode.

Exit fees (often per fuel)

Some fixed deals charge separate exit fees for gas and electricity. If you might switch again soon, this is a key cost.

Introductory offers and “new customer” rules

Some deals exclude anyone who’s been with the supplier recently. Always read the tariff info and supplier terms before applying.

Don’t rely on the headline unit rate. Your total cost is standing charge + unit rate × your kWh. Two tariffs can swap places depending on usage—especially for electricity-only homes.

FAQs: cheapest fixed energy deals for new customers (UK)

Are fixed tariffs always cheaper than variable?

No. A fixed tariff gives price certainty for the term, but it may be higher or lower than a variable tariff depending on market conditions. The “cheapest” option is the one with the lowest estimated annual cost for your details, plus acceptable terms (like exit fees).

Do new customer energy deals still exist in the UK?

Yes, but they’re often structured as online-only tariffs or limited-availability fixes, and eligibility rules vary (e.g., not being a customer of that supplier in a recent period). The best way to check is via a whole-of-market comparison for your postcode and meter type.

Will my energy supply be interrupted if I switch?

Switching supplier normally doesn’t interrupt your gas or electricity supply. Your energy keeps flowing through the same pipes and wires. You’ll just have a new supplier for billing and customer service.

Can I get a cheap fixed deal with a prepayment meter?

Sometimes, but the choice can be narrower. Some suppliers offer fixed tariffs for prepay customers, often requiring a smart prepayment meter. If you’re considering changing meter type, check suitability and any costs directly with the supplier.

How do I know if a standing charge is “high” for my area?

Standing charges vary by region and can change over time. Compare multiple tariffs using your postcode, and focus on the estimated annual cost. If you use relatively little energy, a higher standing charge can outweigh a lower unit rate.

What’s the difference between a 12-month and 24-month fix?

A 12-month fix is usually more flexible; a 24-month fix can provide longer certainty but may come with higher exit fees or fewer chances to switch if prices fall. Always compare total estimated cost and the exit fee terms.

Can I switch if I’m in debt to my current supplier?

It depends. Some customers can switch while repaying debt, but rules vary by meter type and circumstances. If you’re in difficulty paying, consider getting independent help from Citizens Advice and speak to your supplier about support options.

Do I need a smart meter to access the cheapest fixed deals?

Not always. Some tariffs are open to standard credit meters; others may be smart-meter-only. If a tariff requires a smart meter, it should be clearly shown in the tariff details before you apply.

How we assess “cheapest fixed deal” (methodology you can trust)

Energy pricing is complex and personalised. Here’s how EnergyPlus approaches “cheapest fixed energy deal for new customers” so you can understand what’s behind the numbers.

Our comparison principle

We focus on the estimated annual cost for a household’s inputs (postcode/region, usage, meter type and payment method). This reduces the risk of misleading “cheap unit rate” headlines.

What “new customer” means

We use “new customer” in the common supplier sense: a household switching to a supplier they aren’t currently supplied by. Some suppliers add extra rules (e.g., not having been a customer within a defined period).

Assumptions and limitations (please read)

  • Prices and availability change and may be withdrawn; the cheapest deal can change day-to-day.
  • Regional pricing matters: your postcode affects both unit rates and standing charges.
  • Usage estimates: if you don’t know your kWh usage and use an estimate, rankings can change once actual readings are used.
  • Exit fees: we highlight them, but whether they apply depends on when you switch and your supplier’s contract terms.
  • Meter and eligibility constraints: prepayment, Economy 7, and some smart meter set-ups can limit available tariffs.

Trust signals

Reviewed by
Energy Specialist
Last updated
June 2026

Helpful UK sources

Ready to find your cheapest fixed deal?

Get a tailored comparison based on your postcode, meter and payment method—so you can choose a fixed tariff with clear terms, not guesswork.

Get my quote Re-check what to compare

Note: Switching timescales and tariff availability vary. Always review your tariff facts (unit rates, standing charges, term length and exit fees) before confirming a switch.

Back to Energy Suppliers



Updated on 6 Jun 2026