If you use a lot of electricity or can shift your usage into the evening, an Economy 7 tariff could cut your energy bills significantly.
These dual-rate electricity tariffs give you a cheaper rate for seven off-peak hours overnight and a higher rate during the day. They are particularly useful if you have household storage heaters, hot water cylinders, or electric vehicles that can charge overnight.
This guide explains how Economy 7 works, who benefits most, when the cheap hours apply, and how to compare the best Economy 7 electricity tariffs with Simply Switch.
An Economy 7 tariff offers two separate electricity rates: a cheaper night rate for seven off-peak hours and a higher day rate for the rest of the time.
The idea is simple: if you use more energy at night, for example, to heat your home or charge an EV, you could save money overall.
Most major suppliers offer Economy 7 tariffs, which you can compare directly against standard or fixed-rate tariffs through Simply Switch.
To take advantage of Economy 7, you will need a dual-rate meter that records electricity usage separately during day and night hours.
There are two main types:
Standing charges still apply, just like any other tariff, and charged per day regardless of how much energy you use. When providing your meter readings, make sure to record both day and night figures to keep your bills accurate.
The seven off-peak hours usually fall sometime between 11pm and 8am, but exact times vary depending on your supplier and region.
Common examples include:
If you are unsure of your specific Economy 7 times, contact your energy supplier or check your latest bill.
When clocks change for British Summer Time (BST) and Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), your off-peak hours may shift by one hour unless your meter adjusts automatically.
Economy 7 can work brilliantly for some households, but not for everyone.
You will benefit most if you:
However, if most of your electricity use happens during the day, you may be better off with a standard or fixed-rate tariff. Always weigh your usage pattern against the day/night rates before switching.
Economy 7 can offer savings, but it depends on how much power you use overnight. The cheaper night rate is balanced by a higher daytime rate, so it only pays off if your household consumes enough electricity at night.
To work out if it is worth it:
Results will vary by region, meter type, and tariff design, so it’s worth comparing both.
If you are already on Economy 7 but think another tariff might suit you better, you can usually switch easily.
Switching away from or onto Economy 7 will not interrupt your electricity supply.
If seven off-peak hours do not suit your lifestyle, Economy 10 tariffs may be worth exploring.
They offer ten cheaper-rate hours each day, usually split between:
However, Economy 10 tariffs are less common and not offered by all suppliers. They can also be harder to compare directly, so always check total costs carefully if you find one available in your area.
The table below is a live list of the latest E7 tariffs available on the market today.
| Supplier | Tariff Name | Estimated Annual Bill |
|---|---|---|
| Home Energy | Fair Variable Dual | £1,703.04 |
| Outfox Energy | Merry Fix-Mas 2025 12M V2.0 | £1,722.62 |
| Outfox Energy | Fix'd Dual Dec25 12M v4.0 - Family Advantage+ | £1,744.34 |
| Fuse Energy | December 2025 Fixed (13m) v5 | £1,753.47 |
| Ecotricity | EcoFixed - 1 Year Jan 26 v1 | £1,763.33 |
| Fuse Energy | December 2025 Fixed (12m) v5 | £1,771.38 |
| So Energy | So Larch One Year – Green | £1,807.01 |
| So Energy | So Larch 18 Month – Green | £1,830.45 |
| British Gas | EV Power Dec26 | £1,833.80 |
| EDF Energy | Simply Fixed Feb27v3 | £1,846.00 |
Energy prices vary by region, supplier, and meter setup, so using your postcode and actual usage data gives the most accurate results.
Use Simply Switch to compare energy tariffs, find out what is available in your area, and make the switch in minutes.
To make the most of your Economy 7 tariff:
Being mindful of when you use power can make a noticeable difference to your bills.
Economy 7 can be a smart way to lower your electricity bills if you can make clever use of the cheaper night rate. It is ideal for homes with electric heating, EV charging, or flexible energy use.
However, if most of your energy use happens during the day, a standard or fixed tariff may be cheaper overall.
Check your electricity meter or bill. If it shows separate readings for day and night, you’re on an Economy 7 tariff.
They vary by region and supplier, usually between 11pm and 8am. Contact your supplier for your specific times.
Yes, most suppliers now offer smart meters that record dual rates automatically.
Probably not. You will benefit only if you can move a significant portion of your energy use to off-peak hours.
Yes, many dual fuel deals are compatible with Economy 7 for your electricity supply.
No, your electricity will not be interrupted during the switch. Meter upgrades are straightforward and usually arranged by your supplier.