Compare electricity prices

Electricity prices vary radically depending on postcode, usage, and meter type. If you are an all-electric home or wish to cut costs, comparing electricity prices is the easiest way to find a cheaper, better-suited deal.

With Simply Switch, you can quickly and easily compare electricity rates from all the major UK providers within minutes. You’ll receive accurate rates dependent on your consumption, type of tariff, and payment method, and you can make the move online with no disruption to power.

How to Compare Electricity Prices Properly

In order to get the most recent figures, it’s better to consider the cost of electricity based on what you use and where you are, rather than relying on national averages.

Here’s how to do it:

• Enter your postcode: Electricity prices vary across regions due to distribution costs in the region.
• Use the most recent bill: Enter your kWh consumption for a personalized calculation. If you don’t know it, Simply Switch can estimate.
• Choose your choices: Sort by fixed or variable tariffs, green energy suppliers, and payment arrangement (e.g., Direct Debit or prepayment).

Today’s Cheapest Electricity Offers (By Your Area & Consumption)

Electricity prices change from time to time, and the cheapest electricity supplier today won’t be the same tomorrow. The live table below shows up to date electricity prices as an when they are available on the market:

Note: Actual prices depend on your region and consumption. Always use your recent bill to get tailored results rather than relying on TDCVs (Typical Domestic Consumption Values).

See complete results and switch today »

What Affects Your Electricity Cost?

There are a number of factors that determine how much you pay for electricity:

• Unit rate v standing charge: Unit rate is what you pay per kWh you use, while the standing charge is the daily cost you pay regardless of usage.
• Region: It is cheaper to supply and transport in various places, so costs differ accordingly.
• Meter type: Standard credit, prepayment, Economy 7, and smart meters all support varying tariffs.
• Payment method: Paying through Direct Debit and opting for online billing can save you money.
• Tariff type: Fixed tariffs provide price certainty, while variable tariffs can move with the market and Ofgem’s price cap.

Fixed vs Variable Electricity Tariffs

When comparing electricity tariffs, you’ll typically choose between fixed and variable options:

Fixed Tariff

Your unit rate and standing charge stay the same for the contract term, often 12 or 24 months. This provides certainty but may include exit fees.

Variable Tariff

Prices track behind wholesale prices and the energy price cap. You pay less when prices go down but could receive a bigger bill if prices rise.

Electricity-Only Deals vs Dual Fuel

If your home isn’t gas-heated, electricity-only tariffs may be cheaper at times. All-electric properties, especially those with heat pumps or electric heating, may find single-fuel tariffs are good value.

But for properties with both electricity and gas, dual fuel tariffs occasionally provide extra savings or convenience with the one supplier. Always compare the two tariffs side by side to determine which is the cheapest overall annual cost.

Economy 7/10 and Prepayment: Getting the Right Match

Some homes contain special types of meters that affect cost:

• Economy 7 or Economy 10: These meters offer cheaper rates at night or off-peak. They’re most economical if you can move energy consumption to those times.
• Prepayment meters: Allow you to pay in advance, giving control of expenditure, but they are likely to have slightly higher unit rates.

When you’re switching electricity tariffs, make sure you get the right type of meter to look at appropriate offers.

Will My Electricity Supply Be Affected When I Switch?

No. Your electricity supply will not be affected when you switch. The same wire, cables, and meter will be used, only your supplier changes.

Switching typically takes about 5 working days, and you’ll have a 14-day cooling-off period when you can change your mind. If you’re within 49 days of the end of your existing contract, you can switch without being charged exit fees.

Tips to Get the Cheapest Electricity Deal

• Utilise a current bill for proper comparisons.
• Identify exit fees and the end of contracts when switching.
• Compare total yearly cost, not merely the unit rate per kWh.
• Look for green or renewable tariffs if sustainability is a concern to you.
• Re-check frequently, as electricity prices and deals keep changing.

Compare Electricity Prices with Simply Switch

The easiest way of lowering the price of your electricity is to compare prices. Using Simply Switch, you’ll find the best offers on electricity available today, tailored to your usage, postcode, and meter type, without cutting off your supply.

FAQs

Who is the cheapest electricity supplier currently?

Cheapest supplier varies by your postcode and usage. Compare with Simply Switch to compare live prices of all the major providers.

What is a fair electricity unit rate and standing charge?

From recent averages, something around 26p per kWh with a 60p standing charge per day is competitive, though they do vary by area.

How do I work out my electricity usage in kWh?

You can view your annual kWh consumption on your last electricity bill or through your smart meter readings.

Can I switch electricity if I rent?

Yes. You can switch suppliers if you pay the bill directly as a tenant. If bills are paid by the landlord as part of rent, speak to them first about switching.

Do I need a smart meter to get the best offers on electricity?

Some suppliers require smart meters for their most affordable tariffs, especially those involving time-of-use prices or web control.