Cheapest fixed energy tariff in the UK this week

See how to find the lowest estimated fixed deal for your home (based on your postcode, meter and payment method) — and when a fixed tariff isn’t the right move.

  • Whole-of-market comparison for households (not business energy)
  • Clear methodology, UK-specific caveats and realistic examples
  • Quote in minutes — no obligation to switch
Get your fixed tariff quote How we assess “cheapest”

Figures on this page are estimates. Availability varies by region, meter type, payment method and credit checks (where applicable). Always check unit rates, standing charges, exit fees and tariff end date before you switch.

Fast answer: what counts as the “cheapest fixed tariff” this week?

In the UK, the cheapest fixed energy tariff “this week” depends on your postcode region, payment method (Direct Debit vs prepayment), and your meter type (single rate, Economy 7, smart, or prepay). There isn’t one nationwide winner — the cheapest deal for a flat in Cardiff can be different to the cheapest for a house in Newcastle.

Best way to check: run a personalised quote using your postcode + usage (or current monthly spend). That’s the only reliable way to identify the lowest estimated annual cost for a fixed term right now.

Key takeaways

  • Unit rates + standing charges decide “cheap” more than the headline monthly figure.
  • Fixed deals often include an exit fee — check before you commit.
  • If you’re on a prepayment meter, your cheapest option may be different (and more limited).
  • For Economy 7, day/night rates matter; a cheap single-rate tariff can cost more overall.

When a fix is usually worth considering

  • You want price certainty for 12–24 months (budgeting).
  • The fixed unit rates are close to or below what you’re paying now.
  • You’re happy to stay put for the tariff term (or exit fee is low/none).

When it may not suit

  • You expect to move home soon (exit fees can apply).
  • You’re on variable and want flexibility if prices fall.
  • Your usage is uncertain (e.g., renovation/extension) and you don’t want a long commitment.

Compare the cheapest fixed tariffs for your home

Use your details to see estimated annual costs and key tariff terms side-by-side. We’ll show options that match your meter type and region, including fixed deals with different term lengths.

Tip: If you don’t know your kWh usage, you can still compare. A recent bill or your monthly Direct Debit is usually enough to start, then confirm on the supplier’s final quote.

What we’ll ask (and why it matters)

Postcode
Energy rates vary by distribution region; postcode is the quickest accurate match.
Payment method
Direct Debit deals often differ from cash/cheque or prepayment tariffs.
Meter type
Single-rate vs Economy 7 vs prepay changes which tariffs are eligible and which rates apply.

Two realistic examples (with assumptions)

Scenario A: 1–2 bed flat, low usage (Direct Debit)

Assume 1,800 kWh electricity + 7,500 kWh gas per year, single-rate meter, paying by Direct Debit, typical profile.

  • If a fixed tariff is ~3% cheaper than your current variable rates, that could be roughly £35–£70/year in estimated savings for some households.
  • If that fix includes a £50 exit fee per fuel and you move home early, it can wipe out the benefit.

Illustration only: actual costs depend on your region, rates and standing charges.

Scenario B: 3–4 bed house, higher usage (Economy 7 electricity)

Assume 4,200 kWh electricity on Economy 7 (60% day / 40% night) + 12,000 kWh gas, Direct Debit.

  • A “cheap” single-rate fix can cost more if it has high day rates compared with your current E7 split.
  • Even when the unit rate looks good, a higher standing charge can add £40–£120/year depending on region and tariff.

Illustration only: check your day/night breakdown before switching.

Get your fixed tariff results

Tell us a few details and we’ll match you to fixed deals available in your area. If you choose to proceed, you’ll be shown key tariff terms before anything is submitted to a supplier.

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.

Switching timeline (typical)

  1. Compare fixed deals and choose a tariff that fits your meter and payment method
  2. Confirm key terms: rates, standing charges, exit fees, start date and end date
  3. Switch completes in around 5 working days for most switches (can vary)

You won’t be cut off during a standard switch. If you’re in debt or on prepay, extra steps may apply.

Fixed tariff comparison: what “cheapest” should include

Use this table to sense-check any fixed offer you’re considering. The cheapest fixed tariff for you is usually the one with the lowest estimated annual cost once you account for standing charges, exit fees, and whether the tariff matches your meter.

What to compare Why it matters Quick check
Unit rate (p/kWh) This drives most of your bill if you use a lot of energy. Compare electricity and gas separately; for Economy 7 compare both day and night.
Standing charge (p/day) You pay it regardless of usage; it can dominate for low users. Multiply by 365 to see the annual baseline cost.
Tariff type Fixes are stable; variable can change with the market (and regulations). Check the tariff name includes “Fixed” and the exact end date.
Exit fees You may pay to leave early (often per fuel), reducing flexibility. Look for “£0 exit fees” if you might move or want flexibility.
Payment method Some tariffs are only for monthly Direct Debit. Make sure the quote matches how you pay now (or how you want to pay).
Eligibility Some deals exclude prepay, certain meters, or require a credit check. If you’re not sure, choose “Not sure” for meter type and we’ll show compatible options.

Decision checklist: a fixed tariff likely suits you if…

  • You want stable prices for budgeting
  • You can stay on the tariff for most of the term
  • The fix is competitive on total cost (not just the unit rate)
  • You’ve checked exit fees and they’re acceptable (or £0)
  • The tariff fits your meter type (especially Economy 7 / prepay)

It may not suit you if…

  • You expect to move within the next 6–12 months
  • You’re trying to reduce usage rapidly (e.g., major insulation upgrade) and prefer flexibility
  • You’re on prepay and the fixed options available are limited or not cost-effective
  • You’re being offered a fix with high standing charges that cancel out cheaper unit rates

Remember: the Energy Price Cap (set by Ofgem) limits what suppliers can charge on standard variable tariffs for typical customers — it does not mean your bill is capped, and it doesn’t apply in the same way to all fixed deals. Always compare the actual rates you’ll pay.

Costs, exclusions and common pitfalls (UK-specific)

Fixed tariffs can be great for certainty, but “cheap” is easy to misread. These are the most common reasons a fixed deal ends up costing more than expected.

1) Standing charge shock

A fix with a low unit rate but a higher standing charge can be worse for low users. Always convert the standing charge to an annual amount (p/day × 365).

2) Exit fees (per fuel)

Many fixed deals charge an exit fee if you leave early. For dual fuel, it may be per fuel (electricity + gas). Factor this in if you might move or re-fix sooner.

3) Economy 7 mismatch

If you have Economy 7 but switch to a single-rate tariff (or a poor E7 split), you can pay more — especially if you use electricity at night for heating or hot water.

4) Prepayment limitations

Prepay customers may have fewer fixed options. Some suppliers require a meter change or different terms. Always confirm eligibility before starting a switch.

5) Direct Debit assumptions

Monthly payments are often set based on estimated usage. If your usage changes, your Direct Debit may be adjusted. A cheaper tariff doesn’t always mean a lower first payment.

6) Moving home mid-fix

Some suppliers let you take a tariff with you; others may treat it as ending early. Check the terms if you’re renting or planning a move.

If you’re in arrears: you may still be able to switch in some cases, but there can be extra restrictions (particularly with prepayment meters). Citizens Advice has guidance on switching with debt.

FAQs: cheapest fixed energy tariffs (UK)

Is there one cheapest fixed tariff for the whole UK?

No. Rates vary by region and network costs, plus eligibility can differ by meter type and payment method. The “cheapest” fixed tariff is specific to your postcode and circumstances.

Do fixed tariffs protect me from all price changes?

A fixed tariff typically fixes the unit rates and standing charges for the term, but always check the tariff information label and terms. Some charges (like VAT at 5% for domestic energy) are standard, and your bill can still change if your usage changes.

Are fixed deals always cheaper than the Price Cap variable tariff?

Not always. Some fixes cost more in return for certainty. The right comparison is your estimated annual cost on each tariff for your usage, including standing charges and any fees.

Can I get a fixed tariff if I have a prepayment meter?

Sometimes, yes — but choice can be more limited and eligibility varies by supplier and meter. If you have smart prepay, you may have more options than traditional key/card meters in some areas.

Will switching interrupt my supply?

A normal switch should not interrupt your gas or electricity supply. Your meter stays the same (unless you separately agree a meter exchange), and your new supplier handles most of the process.

What if I’m renting — can I switch to a fixed tariff?

If you pay the energy bills and your name is on the account, you can usually switch. If bills are included in rent, or the landlord manages the account, you typically can’t switch. Always check your tenancy agreement.

When should I avoid fixing?

If you’re likely to move soon, or you need flexibility, a fix with high exit fees can be risky. Also avoid switching without checking your meter type (especially Economy 7) and standing charges.

Why do quoted monthly payments differ between suppliers?

Suppliers can set Direct Debit amounts differently based on their own usage estimates and payment smoothing. Compare using unit rates, standing charges, and estimated annual cost rather than the first monthly figure alone.

How we assess the “cheapest fixed tariff this week”

Our definition of “cheapest”

For a given customer profile, we treat “cheapest” as the lowest estimated annual cost among available fixed-rate tariffs that match the customer’s region, payment method and meter type.

What we compare

  • Electricity and gas unit rates (p/kWh)
  • Standing charges (p/day)
  • Tariff length (e.g., 12/18/24 months)
  • Exit fees and key eligibility rules
  • Whether it’s dual fuel or single fuel

Limitations (important)

  • Tariffs can change quickly; “this week” reflects what’s currently available when you run your quote.
  • Estimated annual costs assume typical usage you provide (or a default estimate) — actual bills vary.
  • Some deals may require additional checks (e.g., credit checks for certain payment types).
  • We don’t guarantee availability until the supplier confirms the application.

Editorial & review (trust signals)

Reviewed by
Energy Specialist
Last updated
May 2026

We update guidance as the market changes (tariffs, switching rules, and Ofgem updates). If you spot something that looks out of date, please contact our team via the EnergyPlus site.

Sources & further reading

Note: Official sources explain consumer rights and switching rules; supplier tariffs and eligibility still vary by product and by region.

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Updated on 15 May 2026