Energy prices are not the same across the UK, and the cheapest energy plan that suits someone else might not be the same as the cheapest plan that suits you.
The most efficient way to find the most cost-effective plan is to compare energy prices and make sure they are based on your postcode, as well as the amount you use and the type of meter you have. By doing this, you are only looking at the energy deals that are actually available in the UK, rather than the average cost.
It might seem strange that two people with the same amount of energy consumption are charged different amounts, but the answer is the way the UK energy system is set up.
This means that:
So, even if you use the same amount as someone else, the amount you pay might look very different.
There are a few factors that affect the amount you pay and the energy deals that are available to you.
This is the cost of being connected to the energy supplier’s network. In some areas, this is significantly higher, and this could add to the cost even before you use any energy.
This is the cost per unit of the energy that you are using. Although the differences between regions have narrowed over the last few years, they still exist.
Not all energy suppliers are available in all areas. So, the actual deals that are available to you will depend on your location, as measured by your postcode.
This depends on whether you have:
The type and size of your own home can have an effect on the amount of energy that is used, and this is more important than the cost itself.
To find the answer to this question, the simplest thing to do is:
Once you’ve picked a tariff, everything is handled for you, and your energy supply stays exactly as it is during the switch.
A good energy unit rate is not the same everywhere because the cost varies depending on the region.
However, there are a couple of useful general points:
It’s also worth remembering:
For all these reasons, it’s worth looking at the estimated annual cost, rather than the individual rates.
What works best will vary from one household to another. Here’s a brief guide to what to focus on:
| Your situation | What to compare |
| Standard credit meter (gas + electricity) | Dual fuel or separate tariffs |
| Prepayment meter | Prepayment tariffs available in your area |
| Economy 7 meter | Off-peak rates, including Economy 7 tariffs |
| All-electric home | Electricity-only tariffs |
| Rural or off-gas-grid home | Electricity or alternative heating options |
| Recently moved home | no preconceptions, so don’t compare to current tariff |
As the prices of different types of energy are constantly changing, it’s worth checking the prices in your area regularly.
It only takes a few minutes to compare, and it can help you avoid paying more than you need to.
Because the cost of maintaining and running local energy networks varies by region, and those costs are passed on through bills.
You don’t have to – simply enter your postcode, and we’ll work out your region for you.
Not always. It’s a good starting point, but you should also consider flexibility, contract length, and service.
Yes. While you may have fewer options, you can still compare and save.
No. That’s why it’s essential to compare using your postcode.
You’ll have to consider electricity-only deals or alternative heating solutions, but you can still compare what’s on offer.
There isn’t a single “cheapest energy deal” that works for everyone.
It only takes a few minutes; there’s no interruption to your supply and it’s one of the easiest ways to ensure you’re not paying too much.