Last Update – 30-10-2026
Finding the right gas and electricity supplier can feel overwhelming with rising energy costs and shifting tariffs.
This guide breaks down the UK’s most affordable and reliable providers based on recent data and customer feedback.
Whether you’re looking to cut bills, switch to greener energy, or get better service, we’ve analysed the top 15 suppliers to help you make a smart, informed choice for your household energy needs.
How Can You Identify the Cheapest Gas and Electricity Supplier in the UK?
Choosing the right energy provider goes beyond simply looking for the lowest rates. The cheapest gas and electric supplier is one that offers a balance of affordability, reliability, and customer service.
With energy costs fluctuating due to global demand, regulation, and infrastructure costs, a good deal now may not be the best long term. That’s why comparing both tariff pricing and company practices is essential.
Key considerations include:
- Tariff type: Fixed vs variable
- Billing accuracy and transparency
- Customer service responsiveness
- Support for vulnerable customers
- Standing charges that can inflate bills
Reviewing all of these factors helps determine who offers true value, not just low prices.
Why Do Gas and Electricity Prices Vary Between Suppliers?
Gas and electricity prices in the UK vary due to a complex mix of international and domestic pressures. Several factors continue to influence what households pay.
Global wholesale energy prices fluctuate due to geopolitical tensions, fuel supply issues, and seasonal demand changes.
Suppliers investing in green energy projects often face higher operating costs, which may be reflected in their tariffs.
Similarly, government regulations require providers to meet certain obligations, like smart meter rollout targets, which can influence pricing.
Operational efficiency also plays a big role. Companies with lean, tech-driven operations are better positioned to pass savings onto customers.
Meanwhile, daily standing charges can inflate bills, especially when usage is low.
While OFGEM’s price cap protects against excessively high rates, it doesn’t ensure the best deal across the board, which is why comparisons remain vital.
Is It Still Worth Switching Energy Suppliers?
Yes, switching energy suppliers is still a worthwhile move. Although the number of active providers has reduced in recent years, there is still meaningful variation in pricing, service quality, and tariff options.
Many customers remain on standard variable tariffs after their fixed-term contracts expire, often paying far more than necessary without realising it.
Switching today is more consumer-friendly than ever. Most switches are completed within five working days, with no disruption to supply.
Protections are in place to safeguard your credit balance in the event of supplier failure, and some companies even offer bonuses for switching.
With simple online comparison tools, households, especially those on dual-fuel tariffs, can identify better value quickly and easily.
What Are the Common Pitfalls When Selecting a Low-Cost Energy Provider?
Going for the lowest quote without due diligence can backfire. Here are key risks to watch for:
- High standing charges that make bills expensive for low users
- Poor digital services, making account management harder
- Infrequent or inaccurate billing, leading to surprise debt
- Difficult complaint resolution
- Lack of help during emergencies or outages
A cheaper tariff isn’t always a better experience. It’s crucial to look at real customer feedback and independent assessments when comparing options.
Top 15 Cheapest Gas and Electric Supplier
1. Octopus Energy
Octopus Energy remains a prominent choice for households comparing affordable electricity and gas tariffs, renewable energy options and smart energy management.
The supplier offers several tariff structures, including Flexible Octopus, fixed-price contracts and specialist smart tariffs designed for electric vehicles, heat pumps, battery storage and solar panels.
Flexible Octopus follows changes to the energy price cap and does not charge exit fees. Fixed Octopus products provide greater price certainty over a specified term, although newer fixed agreements can carry early-exit charges.
Its smart tariffs are particularly relevant for households that can change when they consume electricity.
Agile Octopus uses half-hourly electricity prices linked to wholesale markets, while Octopus Tracker updates its unit rates daily.
However, these tariffs carry wholesale price exposure and are not automatically cheaper.
Households with flexible electricity usage are better positioned to benefit than those consuming most electricity during peak periods.
According to the supplier’s published information, Intelligent Octopus Go provides six hours of discounted overnight electricity, while Cosy Octopus is designed for homes with compatible heat pumps.
Octopus Energy Tariff and Service Details
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Energy supplied | Gas and electricity |
| Tariff options | Fixed, variable, wholesale tracker and smart time-of-use |
| Fixed-term options | 12- and 18-month products advertised |
| Smart tariffs | Agile, Tracker, Intelligent Octopus Go, Cosy and Flux |
| Exit fees | None on Flexible and Tracker; may apply to fixed deals |
| Smart meter | Required for certain advanced smart tariffs |
| Digital management | Online account and mobile application |
| Renewable offering | Renewable-backed electricity options |
| Pricing | Postcode- and usage-specific quote required |
| Best suited for | EV owners, smart-home users and flexible households |
For households deciding whether to lock in their rates, the changing relationship between wholesale energy prices and fixed contracts is important.
The Martin Lewis energy bills update explores the considerations involved in choosing between fixed and variable energy deals.
Our assessment: Octopus Energy offers particularly strong tariff flexibility. Its value comes from choosing the right product for the household’s consumption pattern rather than assuming every smart tariff will deliver savings.
Official website: Octopus Energy tariffs
2. Utility Warehouse
Utility Warehouse takes a different approach to energy affordability by combining gas, electricity, broadband, mobile services and insurance into household packages.
Instead of competing exclusively through electricity and gas prices, Utility Warehouse offers better tariff opportunities to customers who subscribe to qualifying additional services.
Its residential energy range includes fixed, variable, tracker and electric vehicle tariffs. The level of discount generally depends on the selected tariff and the number of qualifying household services.
For customers seeking fixed-price protection, UW Fixed Start is an energy-only option, while UW Fixed and UW Fixed Saver can provide more favourable rates through additional services.
Its Cashback Card offers another opportunity to reduce household bills. The card provides cashback on qualifying purchases, automatically reducing Utility Warehouse bills.
However, it is important to account for the card’s ongoing fee when calculating net savings.
Utility Warehouse advertises cashback opportunities of up to 10% with participating retailers, while its standard card arrangements include a three-month introductory period followed by a £3 monthly fee.
Promotional benefits depend on eligibility and may change.
Utility Warehouse Energy Pricing and Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Energy supplied | Electricity and gas |
| Available tariff types | Fixed, variable, tracker and EV |
| Fixed-term length | Up to 12 months on advertised products |
| Bundling options | Energy, broadband, mobile and insurance |
| Fixed tariff exit fee | UW Fixed Start advertises £75 per fuel |
| Variable tariff exit fee | No exit fee |
| Smart meter requirement | Required for certain fixed, tracker and EV tariffs |
| EV tariff | Cheaper overnight period from midnight to 5am GMT |
| Cashback Card | Up to 10% at qualifying retailers; terms apply |
| Account management | Combined household billing and online account |
| Best suited for | Households using multiple utility services |
The financial value of a Utility Warehouse package depends on the total household expenditure rather than the energy tariff alone.
For example, customers should compare the combined annual cost of broadband, mobile and energy against purchasing those services independently.
Cashback earned through everyday spending should be treated separately from guaranteed tariff savings.
Our assessment: Utility Warehouse is particularly attractive to households interested in simplifying multiple service contracts.
Its bundled discounts may be valuable, but customers need to calculate the overall cost before switching.
Official website: Utility Warehouse energy deals
3. Utilita
Utilita is especially well established in the UK prepayment energy market. Its services are designed for households that prefer to manage electricity and gas spending through regular top-ups rather than conventional monthly billing.
One of Utilita’s key differences is its Smart Pay As You Go tariff structure, which removes the conventional daily standing charge on eligible smart-meter tariffs.
However, this does not mean every unit of energy is charged at the same low price.
Utilita’s Smart Energy tariff applies a higher rate to the first 2 kWh of gas or electricity consumed each day, with a lower unit rate applied to subsequent consumption.
The company also offers Smart E7, a tariff designed for Economy 7 households requiring cheaper overnight electricity.
The My Utilita app enables customers to monitor balances, review energy consumption and top up without visiting a shop.
Its payment flexibility extends to AutoPay, which can automatically top up a meter when its balance reaches a specified threshold.
For households experiencing temporary financial difficulties, Utilita provides £15 emergency credit and a POWER UP facility offering eligible customers up to £25 in advance energy credit, repayable through future top-ups.
Friendly Credit arrangements also help prevent immediate loss of supply during specified evening, overnight, weekend and bank holiday periods.
Utilita Energy Tariffs and Customer Benefits
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Energy supplied | Electricity and gas |
| Main focus | Smart Pay As You Go |
| Smart Energy tariff | Variable tariff with two unit-rate tiers |
| Standing charges | None on eligible Smart PAYG tariffs |
| Initial unit-rate structure | Higher rate for first 2 kWh per fuel each day |
| Exit fees | None on advertised Smart PAYG tariffs |
| Smart meter | Required for Smart Energy and Smart E7 |
| Minimum app top-up | From £2 |
| Retail top-up | From £5 at participating outlets |
| Emergency credit | £15 |
| POWER UP support | Up to £25, subject to eligibility |
| Best suited for | Prepayment customers and budget-conscious households |
Although prepayment tools provide spending visibility, a smart meter needs to function correctly to deliver reliable balance and consumption information.
The UK smart meter rules explain the regulatory requirements affecting smart meter reliability, repair services and customer protections.
Our assessment: Utilita is particularly suitable for households prioritising payment flexibility and spending control.
Its no-standing-charge arrangement may be beneficial for some users, but the two-tier unit-rate structure must be included in any cost comparison.
Official website: Utilita Smart Pay As You Go
4. 100Green
100Green has developed a distinctive position in the UK energy market by focusing on renewable electricity, green gas and environmentally responsible energy procurement.
Previously known as Green Energy UK, the company supplies renewable-backed electricity and offers a range of tariffs suited to different household requirements.
Its standard tariff options include Sparkling Guarantee, which provides a fixed rate for 12 months, and Sparkling Variable, which allows prices to change with market conditions.
A particularly important distinction concerns the company’s green gas offering. While all its domestic tariffs include at least 10% certified green gas, its specialist 100 Origin product offers 100% certified green gas alongside renewable electricity.
This distinction matters because green electricity certificates, gas offsets and physically sourced biomethane represent different environmental commitments.
The 100 Origin tariff is independently eco-labelled through EKOenergy, providing additional assurance regarding renewable sourcing and sustainability standards.
For households with electric vehicles or domestic battery systems, 100Green also provides specialist Tide tariffs, including overnight discounted periods and time-of-use pricing.
Its published tariff information describes Tide EV as offering five hours of lower-cost overnight electricity, while Tide Smart provides seven hours designed for automated charging and storage systems.
100Green Energy Plans and Sustainability Details
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Energy supplied | Renewable-backed electricity and gas |
| Sparkling Guarantee | 12-month fixed-rate tariff |
| Sparkling Variable | Variable pricing |
| Green gas on standard tariffs | At least 10% certified green gas |
| 100 Origin | 100% certified green gas and renewable electricity |
| Environmental certification | EKOenergy on 100 Origin |
| Tide EV | Five hours of discounted overnight electricity |
| Tide Smart | Seven hours of discounted overnight electricity |
| Other specialist tariffs | Tide Lifestyle |
| Fixed tariff exit fees | Sparkling Guarantee advertises none |
| Customer support | UK-based telephone, email and webchat |
| Best suited for | Environmentally conscious households |
The supplier’s sustainability proposition extends beyond simply matching electricity consumption with renewable certificates.
Its published information identifies direct relationships with British wind, hydro and solar generators, as well as separate certification arrangements for renewable gas.
Our assessment: 100Green is worth considering where the environmental credentials of energy procurement matter as much as price.
Households should compare the precise green gas percentage and tariff conditions rather than assuming all 100Green products offer identical renewable gas coverage.
Official website: 100Green tariffs
5. E (Energy)
E is a British-owned energy company based in Birmingham that focuses on straightforward tariffs, prepayment customers and accessible account management.
Its approach to pricing differs from conventional standing-charge structures. For eligible smart-meter customers, the company offers its Easy Smart No Standing Charge tariff.
Under this arrangement, customers do not pay a separate daily standing charge.
Instead, the supplier charges a higher unit rate for the first 2 kWh of each fuel consumed daily, followed by a lower rate for the remaining consumption.
This makes it important to calculate bills using both rate tiers rather than comparing only the cheaper headline unit rate.
For example, E’s published October 2026 tariff information gives London electricity rates of 47.10p/kWh for the first 2 kWh per day and 25.70p/kWh thereafter.
For London gas consumption, the corresponding rates are 22.95p/kWh and 7.88p/kWh.
These are regional examples, not nationwide rates. The company publishes separate pricing for different electricity distribution regions.
E also advertises no exit fees, smart-meter top-up facilities and participation in the Warm Home Discount scheme.
E Energy Tariff Features and Published Rates
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Energy supplied | Electricity and gas |
| Featured tariff | Easy Smart No Standing Charge |
| Tariff structure | Two unit-rate tiers per fuel |
| Daily standing charge | None on the featured eligible tariff |
| London electricity, first tier | 47.10p/kWh |
| London electricity, subsequent tier | 25.70p/kWh |
| London gas, first tier | 22.95p/kWh |
| London gas, subsequent tier | 7.88p/kWh |
| Initial rate threshold | First 2 kWh per fuel each day |
| Exit fee | None advertised |
| Customer tools | MySmartE app and smart meter top-ups |
| Best suited for | Smart prepayment households seeking simplified charges |
Illustrative published London rates from the supplier’s October 2026 tariff information; gas rates include VAT. Other regions have different charges.
For households dealing with financial pressure, tariff selection should also account for available energy-bill assistance. The DWP energy bill support measures cover different types of assistance intended to reduce eligible households’ energy costs.
Our assessment: E’s main attraction is its simple prepayment-focused model and transparent two-tier rates.
A no-standing-charge tariff is not necessarily the lowest-cost option for high-consumption households, so customers should model their annual usage before choosing it.
Official website: E Energy
6. Co-op Energy
Co-op Energy combines domestic energy supply with the values of the co-operative movement.
Operating through EnergyCoop and its partnership with Octopus Energy, the supplier provides fixed and flexible energy contracts alongside a specialist Community Power tariff.
Its central proposition is that households can purchase energy while supporting community-owned renewable generation projects across Britain.
The Community Power tariff sources renewable electricity from participating local renewable energy projects. These include solar, hydro and wind schemes associated with community organisations.
EnergyCoop says it purchases renewable energy from more than 250 UK community power projects.
Customers choosing its standard fixed or flexible tariffs receive zero-carbon electricity options supplied through the Octopus partnership, while Community Power offers a more direct connection to locally owned generation.
The supplier’s advertised 18-month fixed and Community Power tariffs carry £75 exit fees per fuel. Its flexible option has no exit fee.
Eligible co-operative members can also access rewards, including an advertised £20 joining benefit, subject to the membership and promotional terms.
Co-op Energy Tariffs and Membership Benefits
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Energy supplied | Electricity and gas |
| Supply partner | Octopus Energy |
| Main tariff options | Fixed, Flexible and Community Power |
| Fixed contract options | 12 and 18 months advertised |
| Flexible tariff exit fee | None |
| 12-month fixed exit fee | £50 per fuel on advertised product |
| 18-month fixed exit fee | £75 per fuel on advertised product |
| Community Power | Renewable electricity from community-owned projects |
| Community projects | More than 250 projects supported through procurement |
| Membership reward | £20 sign-up reward advertised for eligible members |
| Digital rewards | Octoplus for eligible smart-meter customers |
| Best suited for | Households supporting co-operative and community energy |
The relationship between Co-op Energy and Octopus is important when comparing customer support, account management and tariffs, as the two brands share energy supply infrastructure.
However, the additional community benefits offered by Co-op Energy may influence the decision for households that want their energy spending to support locally owned projects.
Our assessment: Co-op Energy provides a distinctive combination of mainstream energy services and community investment.
Its tariffs should still be assessed against equivalent Octopus products, including any difference in price, membership rewards and exit fees.
Official website: EnergyCoop
7. Outfox the Market
Outfox the Market is a challenger energy provider focused on cost-conscious households and competitive tariff pricing.
The company also promotes its services through the Outfox Energy brand, with a range of gas and electricity contracts designed around fixed prices and lower-cost alternatives to standard variable tariffs.
One of its advertised products is a price-cap tracker offering electricity and gas unit rates at least 5% below the corresponding Ofgem price-cap rates.
The tracker arrangement operates over a 12-month period, with the relevant unit rates moving when the energy price cap changes.
Importantly, a discount on unit rates does not automatically mean the entire household bill is 5% lower, because standing charges and individual energy consumption still affect the final cost.
Outfox also provides fixed-rate products, including dual-fuel contracts that offer protection from changing unit prices during the agreed term.
Its account management tools allow customers to submit meter readings, monitor balances and review statements.
The supplier advertises a dedicated EV tariff intended to help eligible electric vehicle owners reduce their overnight charging expenditure.
Outfox Energy Tariffs and Pricing Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Energy supplied | Gas and electricity |
| Tariff categories | Fixed, standard variable, tracker and EV |
| Price-cap tracker | Unit rates at least 5% below relevant cap rates |
| Tracker duration | 12 months advertised |
| Fixed-term options | 12-, 18- and 24-month products appear in market listings |
| Payment arrangements | Depend on selected tariff |
| Exit fees | Vary by fixed contract and tariff conditions |
| Smart meter | Eligibility differs across products |
| Digital services | Account management and meter readings |
| EV provision | Discounted overnight charging option |
| Pricing | Individual quote required |
| Best suited for | Price-focused households comparing fixed and tracker deals |
When evaluating Outfox the Market, customers should compare the total projected annual cost rather than relying only on promotional unit-rate discounts.
A tariff with a slightly lower electricity unit rate could still be more expensive if the standing charge is higher or if the household uses relatively little electricity.
Our assessment: Outfox Energy is a useful option for households prioritising competitive prices, especially those comparing fixed contracts with price-cap trackers.
Contract duration, exit fees and standing charges should all influence the final decision.
Official website: Outfox Energy
8. Ecotricity
Ecotricity is one of Britain’s established renewable energy suppliers, with a business model built around funding and developing cleaner energy generation.
Unlike suppliers focused exclusively on undercutting competitors, Ecotricity reinvests in renewable infrastructure, including wind and solar energy projects.
Its domestic electricity is certified green, while its gas supply combines fossil gas and a proportion of sustainably sourced green gas.
The company also supports direct carbon removal projects in Britain through its Carbon Bank initiative.
Ecotricity’s Green Variable tariff provides customers with the flexibility to change plans without a fixed-term commitment or early-exit fee.
An important pricing distinction is that its Green Variable tariff operates under a derogation from the standard Ofgem price cap.
This allows the company to charge above the usual default-tariff cap, helping support its renewable investment activities.
For this reason, Ecotricity should not automatically be classified among the lowest-cost UK energy suppliers.
The supplier also offers Pay As You Go and fixed-tariff options, while its published information identifies vegan certification as part of its environmental credentials.
Ecotricity Renewable Energy and Tariff Details
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Energy supplied | Gas and electricity |
| Electricity sourcing | Certified renewable-backed electricity |
| Gas composition | Fossil gas and sustainable green gas mix |
| Standard variable tariff | Green Variable |
| Green Variable contract | No fixed contract |
| Green Variable exit fee | None |
| Price-cap position | Green Variable operates under a cap derogation |
| Prepayment tariff | Pay As You Go |
| Fixed tariff | Subject to availability and eligibility |
| Fixed tariff exit fee | May apply |
| Environmental certification | Vegan-certified energy offering |
| Smart meter | Not required for Green Variable or PAYG |
| Best suited for | Households prioritising renewable investment |
Ecotricity’s value proposition is connected to its long-term investment in sustainable infrastructure.
For customers considering an environmentally focused supplier, it is therefore worth distinguishing between renewable electricity certification, the percentage of green gas supplied and the company’s direct investment in additional generating capacity.
The financial implications of renewable investment and changing energy costs are also relevant to the broader outlook for UK energy bills between now and 2030.
Our assessment: Ecotricity is a strong option for consumers who deliberately prioritise environmental impact.
However, because some tariffs may exceed the standard price cap, its pricing should be compared carefully against lower-cost alternatives.
Official website: Ecotricity tariffs
9. Sainsbury’s Energy
Sainsbury’s Energy combines household energy tariffs with the retailer’s Nectar loyalty programme.
An important change from older descriptions is that Sainsbury’s Energy is now a trading name used under licence by E.ON Next Energy Limited, rather than being described as supplied through British Gas.
The supplier offers gas and electricity contracts, including fixed-price products, variable tariffs and reward-focused arrangements.
Customers can collect Nectar points through qualifying energy contracts and receive additional rewards when shopping at Sainsbury’s.
Under the current loyalty arrangements, eligible dual-fuel customers can receive two additional Nectar points per £1 spent on qualifying Sainsbury’s purchases, resulting in triple points when combined with the standard earning rate.
Single-fuel customers can receive an additional point, giving double points on qualifying expenditure.
Certain Fix & Reward tariffs also include bonus Nectar points for joining or renewing.
For example, Sainsbury’s Energy advertises up to 8,000 bonus points for qualifying 24-month dual-fuel fixed arrangements.
Its Track & Reward tariff offers up to 1,500 Nectar points each quarter for eligible dual-fuel customers, together with a price-cap-linked structure and no exit fees.
Each reward is subject to tariff eligibility, annual earning limits and additional terms.
Sainsbury’s Energy Tariffs and Nectar Benefits
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Energy supplied | Gas and electricity |
| Licensed supplier | E.ON Next Energy Limited |
| Tariff options | Fixed, variable, Fix & Reward and Track & Reward |
| Fixed-term options | 12- and 24-month products, subject to availability |
| Nectar multiplier | Up to triple points on qualifying shopping |
| Fix & Reward joining bonus | Up to 8,000 points on eligible 24-month dual fuel |
| Track & Reward | Up to 1,500 points quarterly for eligible dual fuel |
| Track & Reward exit fees | None advertised |
| Smart meter | Required or installation agreement for Track & Reward |
| Account management | Online billing and Direct Debit management |
| Support | Online, email and telephone |
| Best suited for | Regular Sainsbury’s shoppers and Nectar members |
Nectar rewards can contribute towards the overall value of an energy contract, but they should not be confused with guaranteed reductions in electricity or gas unit rates.
A household paying more for energy could ultimately lose the benefit gained through additional loyalty points.
It is therefore advisable to compare the tariff’s annual energy cost first, then calculate the monetary value of any qualifying Nectar rewards.
Our assessment: Sainsbury’s Energy is particularly relevant for customers who already shop regularly at the supermarket.
Its strongest advantage is the combination of energy pricing and retail rewards, provided the underlying tariff remains competitive.
Official website: Sainsbury’s Energy
10. EDF Energy
EDF Energy is one of the UK’s major energy providers, supplying domestic electricity and gas alongside specialist tariffs for modern low-carbon homes.
Its broad range includes fixed-price contracts, standard variable tariffs, price-cap trackers and time-of-use electricity products.
Simply Fixed is designed for customers seeking predictable unit rates and standing charges over a defined contract period.
Simply Tracker provides a different structure, with electricity and gas prices moving alongside changes to Ofgem’s energy price cap.
EDF advertises a £50 annual reduction in standing charges on eligible dual-fuel Simply Tracker arrangements, consisting of £25 per fuel.
However, Simply Tracker has a fixed end date and may carry exit fees, meaning it should not be treated as equivalent to a standard variable tariff with unrestricted switching.
EDF also offers specialist products for electric vehicle drivers. Its GoElectric tariff provides seven hours of discounted electricity each night between 11pm and 6am.
Other options target heat pump owners and households with solar panels or battery storage.
The supplier’s Energy Hub allows eligible users to monitor energy usage, while its app supports account management and access to additional energy-saving offers.
EDF also advertises solar export arrangements and rewards for customers who can shift electricity consumption away from peak periods.
EDF Energy Tariffs and Additional Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Energy supplied | Gas and electricity |
| Main tariff categories | Fixed, variable, tracker and smart time-of-use |
| Simply Fixed | Fixed unit rates and standing charges |
| Simply Tracker | Rates linked to Ofgem’s price cap |
| Tracker standing-charge benefit | £50 annually for eligible dual-fuel customers |
| Fixed/tracker exit fees | May apply |
| GoElectric | Seven hours of overnight discounted electricity |
| EV off-peak period | 11pm–6am |
| Heat pump tariffs | Discounted periods for eligible heat pump customers |
| Solar options | Import and export tariffs |
| Energy management | EDF app and Energy Hub |
| Best suited for | Households seeking a large supplier with specialist tariff options |
For homes with electric vehicles or heat pumps, the financial benefit of a time-of-use tariff depends on how much electricity can be moved into discounted periods.
Customers should calculate both peak and off-peak energy consumption rather than comparing the discounted overnight price in isolation.
EDF’s broader range of energy plans makes it possible to compare different options without necessarily changing supplier, although existing customers still need to check eligibility and contractual conditions.
Our assessment: EDF offers a comprehensive selection of domestic energy products.
It is particularly relevant for households looking for fixed-price stability, EV charging discounts or specialist tariffs for low-carbon heating and solar generation.
Official website: EDF Energy tariffs
11. E.ON Next
E.ON Next is among the UK’s major residential energy providers, offering fixed-rate contracts, price-cap tracking tariffs, renewable electricity options and specialist smart energy products.
As part of the E.ON Group, the supplier combines established energy infrastructure with digital account management and newer tariff structures designed to help customers control household electricity costs.
Its Next Fixed tariffs are available over 12- and 24-month periods, allowing households to lock in their electricity and gas unit rates for a specified term.
These agreements provide protection against future unit-rate increases, although early exit fees may apply.
Customers seeking greater flexibility can consider Next Pledge, a tracker tariff designed to remain below Ofgem’s energy price cap.
E.ON Next advertises an annual saving of £50 for a typical dual-fuel household, split equally between gas and electricity.
This saving is calculated using average consumption, meaning customers using less energy may receive a smaller financial benefit.
The supplier has also expanded its smart electricity products. Next Drive Smart offers eligible electric vehicle owners discounted electricity at 6.5p per kWh between midnight and 6am, subject to compatible charging equipment and smart meter requirements.
Unlike traditional EV tariffs that depend entirely on manual overnight scheduling, Next Drive Smart can automate charging through the E.ON Next Home app.
Other specialist products include Next Pumped for heat pump owners and Next Optimise for households with solar panels and battery storage.
E.ON Next Energy Tariffs and Pricing Details
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Energy supplied | Gas and electricity |
| Fixed tariff options | Next Fixed 12m and Next Fixed 24m |
| Variable tariff | Next Flex |
| Price-cap tracker | Next Pledge |
| Tracker discount | £50 below cap for typical dual-fuel usage |
| Next Pledge exit fee | £25 per fuel when changing supplier |
| 12-month fixed exit fee | £50 per fuel when changing supplier |
| 24-month fixed exit fee | £100 per fuel when changing supplier |
| EV smart tariff | Next Drive Smart |
| EV discounted rate | 6.5p/kWh during qualifying hours |
| EV discounted period | Midnight–6am |
| Heat pump tariff | Next Pumped |
| Digital services | E.ON Next Home app and online account |
| Best suited for | Households seeking fixed prices or specialist smart tariffs |
For ordinary households, the decision between Next Fixed and Next Pledge depends on whether long-term price certainty is more important than following changes in the energy price cap.
Next Pledge can offer savings against a standard price-capped tariff, but customers remain exposed to future increases in the cap.
Fixed contracts provide greater predictability but may become less competitive when market prices fall.
Our assessment: E.ON Next provides a strong combination of conventional and specialist energy products. Its 6.5p EV charging rate and price-cap tracker are particularly relevant, although tariff eligibility and total household electricity consumption determine the actual savings.
Official website: E.ON Next Energy Tariffs
12. So Energy
So Energy has positioned itself as a competitively priced energy provider with a particular focus on renewable electricity, transparent tariff structures and customer service.
The company offers fixed-rate contracts, standard variable tariffs, price-cap trackers and specialist electricity arrangements for electric vehicle owners.
One of its distinguishing features is its approach to renewable energy.
So Energy offers electricity matched with 100% renewable generation on its fixed-rate and Green Tracker products, while giving customers opportunities to express their preferences for the renewable technologies supported.
Its So Fixed tariffs provide fixed electricity and gas rates over contract terms of 12, 18 or 24 months, subject to product availability.
For customers wanting a balance between flexibility and lower rates, So Green Tracker follows Ofgem’s price cap while maintaining an advertised saving against it.
The 12-month Green Tracker is designed to remain £50 below the annual price cap for a typical dual-fuel household, while its 24-month version offers a corresponding £100 saving.
Unlike a fixed-price deal, the tracker continues to change every three months alongside the energy price cap.
So Energy’s EV product also offers discounted overnight electricity. Its current tariff overview advertises 7.5p per kWh on So EV, subject to smart meter and tariff eligibility conditions.
The company also offers solar panel and battery installation services, allowing households to combine electricity supply with domestic renewable generation.
So Energy Tariff Comparison and Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Energy supplied | Gas and electricity |
| Fixed-rate tariffs | So Fixed |
| Fixed contract options | 12, 18 and 24 months |
| Variable tariff | So Flex |
| Green tracker | So Green Tracker |
| 12-month tracker saving | £50 against the typical annual price cap |
| 24-month tracker saving | £100 against the typical annual price cap |
| 12-month tracker exit fee | £50 per fuel |
| 24-month tracker exit fee | £95 per fuel |
| 12-month fixed exit fee | £75 per fuel |
| Longer fixed-contract exit fees | £95 per fuel on advertised 18/24-month products |
| EV tariff | So EV |
| Advertised EV off-peak rate | 7.5p/kWh |
| Renewable electricity | 100% renewable-backed on Fixed, Green Tracker and EV products |
| Other services | Solar panels, batteries and home heating services |
| Best suited for | Customers seeking renewable energy and structured tariff choices |
One important consideration is that So Energy’s green electricity commitment does not apply identically to every tariff.
So Flex is the company’s standard variable option and uses a broader electricity supply mix rather than the dedicated renewable-backed arrangement offered by its fixed and Green Tracker products.
Customers should also consider the financial consequences of leaving a contract early.
Longer Green Tracker and fixed-term agreements can have relatively substantial exit fees, which may reduce savings if customers switch before the agreement ends.
Our assessment: So Energy offers a useful combination of renewable electricity and transparent price-cap discounts.
Its Green Tracker tariffs are particularly interesting for households seeking renewable-backed electricity without fully locking in their unit rates.
Official website: So Energy Tariffs
13. British Gas
British Gas remains one of the UK’s largest and most established domestic energy suppliers, providing gas and electricity alongside boiler servicing, heating protection, smart home equipment and energy efficiency services.
The company’s range includes fixed, variable, tracker and time-of-use tariffs, allowing households to choose between predictable pricing and flexibility.
Its Fix and Fall tariff combines a fixed-price arrangement with a mechanism for reducing prices at a future review date when the relevant conditions are met.
British Gas also advertises a Fixed Tracker tariff designed to remain up to £50 below the Ofgem price cap for a typical household.
However, the exact savings depend on consumption and the terms of the selected product.
One of British Gas’s more distinctive features is PeakSave, an electricity programme encouraging households to move energy-intensive activities into lower-demand periods.
Its PeakSave Super Sunday tariff provides eight hours of half-price electricity every Sunday between 9am and 5pm.
Customers with compatible smart meters can schedule activities such as washing clothes, running dishwashers and charging electric vehicles during these periods.
British Gas also offers specialist EV, heat pump and battery tariffs.
Its EV Power product advertises a discounted overnight rate of 9.5p per kWh between midnight and 5am, although regional pricing and eligibility conditions should be checked.
Through its Smart Export Guarantee products, eligible solar panel owners can receive payments for surplus electricity exported to the grid.
British Gas Tariff and Customer Service Details
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Energy supplied | Gas and electricity |
| Main tariffs | Fixed, Fix and Fall, Fixed Tracker and Standard Variable |
| Price-cap tracker benefit | Up to £50 below cap for typical usage |
| PeakSave Super Sunday | Eight hours of half-price electricity |
| PeakSave period | Sunday, 9am–5pm |
| EV tariff | EV Power |
| EV off-peak rate | Advertised at 9.5p/kWh |
| EV charging hours | Midnight–5am |
| Heat pump tariff | Heat Power |
| Solar export | Smart Export Guarantee arrangements |
| Fixed tariff exit fees | Depend on specific tariff |
| Customer management | British Gas app and online account |
| Additional services | Boiler cover, heating servicing and Hive products |
| Financial assistance | Warm Home Discount and eligible support schemes |
| Best suited for | Households seeking established support and energy-related services |
British Gas also provides support for eligible households experiencing financial difficulties.
The Warm Home Discount offers a £150 electricity bill reduction for qualifying customers during the 2026/27 winter period.
Eligibility differs between England, Wales and Scotland, and certain customers in Scotland must apply directly.
Households seeking further information can check the British Gas Warm Home Discount eligibility rules before reviewing available energy support.
The financial benefit of British Gas’s additional products depends on how customers use electricity throughout the week.
For example, PeakSave can provide meaningful savings when high-consumption activities are scheduled within the qualifying hours.
Households that cannot change their electricity usage patterns may receive more limited benefits.
Our assessment: British Gas offers a broad combination of energy tariffs, household services and targeted discount programmes.
It is particularly suitable for customers who value access to multiple home energy services, although these additional features should be compared separately from the underlying gas and electricity tariff.
Official website: British Gas Energy Tariffs
14. ScottishPower
ScottishPower is a major UK electricity and gas provider offering conventional household tariffs alongside renewable electricity, electric vehicle charging products and energy-efficiency solutions.
The company operates within the Iberdrola Group and has substantial involvement in renewable electricity generation and electricity network infrastructure.
ScottishPower provides fixed-price contracts, standard variable tariffs and price-cap tracking products for customers seeking different levels of financial certainty.
Its advertised Cap Tracker Sep 2027 product offers a daily standing charge designed to deliver a £15 annual reduction compared with its Standard tariff, with a £50 exit fee per fuel.
The company also offers fixed-price tariffs with renewable-backed electricity and selected products incorporating boiler protection services.
For customers with electric vehicles, ScottishPower’s EV Saver tariff provides discounted charging rates of 8.5p per kWh between midnight and 5am.
The tariff is designed for customers with an electric vehicle, suitable home charging arrangements and a communicating smart meter.
ScottishPower has also introduced Heat Pump Saver, a specialist tariff providing a discounted electricity rate of 14p per kWh between 11am and 4pm every day.
This arrangement is designed to support households heating their homes through electric heat pumps, particularly where heating demand can be shifted into the lower-rate period.
The company additionally operates Power Saver, a scheme providing discounts for shifting electricity consumption into selected lower-demand periods.
ScottishPower Energy Tariffs and Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Energy supplied | Gas and electricity |
| Main tariffs | Fixed, Cap Tracker and Standard Variable |
| Tracker product | Cap Tracker Sep 2027 |
| Tracker standing-charge benefit | £15 annually below the advertised Standard tariff |
| Tracker exit fee | £50 per fuel |
| Standard Variable exit fee | None |
| Green electricity | Available on selected fixed and smart tariffs |
| EV tariff | EV Saver |
| EV discounted rate | 8.5p/kWh |
| EV charging hours | Midnight–5am |
| Heat pump tariff | Heat Pump Saver |
| Heat pump discounted rate | 14p/kWh |
| Heat pump discounted period | 11am–4pm daily |
| Power Saver | Discounts during selected electricity usage periods |
| Digital management | ScottishPower app and online account |
| Best suited for | EV owners, heat pump users and households comparing tracker tariffs |
ScottishPower’s time-of-use products offer different opportunities depending on a customer’s heating system and daily electricity consumption.
For EV owners, the biggest potential savings come from charging vehicles consistently during the discounted overnight window.
For heat pump households, financial savings depend on how much heating demand can be moved into the discounted afternoon period without reducing comfort or efficiency.
ScottishPower indicates that customers using less than 30% of their electricity during the Heat Pump Saver off-peak window may benefit more from an alternative tariff.
Households also need to account for winter heating costs when comparing plans.
Those on lower incomes may qualify for additional assistance, including Cold Weather Payments and other winter energy support, depending on their circumstances.
Our assessment: ScottishPower provides strong specialist options for households using EVs or heat pumps.
Its value depends heavily on the customer’s ability to shift electricity consumption, while fixed and tracker products offer more conventional choices for dual-fuel households.
Official website: ScottishPower Energy Tariffs
15. OVO Energy
OVO Energy is a major UK energy provider focusing on flexible tariff choices, smart electricity management, customer rewards and technologies designed to support lower-carbon homes.
The company offers fixed-price energy contracts alongside its Simpler Energy standard variable tariff.
Simpler Energy follows changes to Ofgem’s energy price cap, meaning unit rates and standing charges can increase or decrease during quarterly reviews.
OVO’s fixed-price products provide greater certainty by locking in the rates customers pay for electricity and gas over the agreed contract term.
However, fixed contracts may include early exit fees. OVO confirms that its standard variable tariff has no exit charges and that customers can normally switch without exit fees during the final 53 days of a fixed-term contract.
One of OVO’s distinctive offers is Charge Anytime, a smart electric vehicle charging service available to eligible customers with compatible vehicles or chargers.
Its pay-as-you-go smart-charging arrangement advertises an effective electricity rate of 14p per kWh for qualifying charging, as of 27 August 2026.
Unlike conventional overnight tariffs, Charge Anytime uses smart technology to schedule charging during suitable lower-demand periods.
Customers specify when their vehicle needs to be ready, allowing the system to manage charging automatically.
OVO also provides a rewards programme called Beyond, through which eligible customers can collect points, receive electricity rewards and earn bill credits.
Its Power Move programme rewards customers who shift a sufficiently high proportion of their electricity usage into specified lower-demand periods.
The scheme currently uses an 85% off-peak electricity consumption target for earning monthly points, subject to eligibility and programme conditions.
OVO Energy Plans and Smart Energy Benefits
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Energy supplied | Gas and electricity |
| Main tariffs | Fixed-rate and Simpler Energy variable |
| Variable tariff exit fee | None |
| Fixed tariff exit fees | Depend on the selected agreement |
| Fee-free switching window | Final 53 days of fixed contract |
| EV charging product | Charge Anytime |
| Advertised qualifying EV rate | 14p/kWh |
| EV smart-charging requirements | Compatible EV/charger and communicating smart meter |
| Customer rewards | OVO Beyond |
| Electricity rewards | Beyond Points |
| Energy shifting rewards | Power Move |
| Power Move target | 85% electricity usage during qualifying greener periods |
| Digital management | OVO app and online account |
| Additional services | EV charging, solar and heating solutions |
| Best suited for | Smart energy users and customers seeking loyalty rewards |
A key distinction with OVO’s EV offering is that the Charge Anytime rate applies to qualifying smart-charged vehicle electricity rather than automatically applying to all household electricity consumption.
Customers should therefore compare the effective vehicle charging cost alongside their ordinary household electricity tariff.
For families with an electric vehicle, this arrangement can offer flexibility because qualifying charging can be scheduled outside a single fixed overnight window.
OVO’s reward programme also introduces potential savings through changed electricity usage patterns, but reward eligibility, exclusions and available offers can change.
Power Move requires an eligible single-rate electricity tariff, working smart meter and suitable Direct Debit arrangements.
Our assessment: OVO Energy is particularly relevant for households interested in smart electricity usage and rewards.
Its charging technology and loyalty features provide additional potential value, but the total cost should be calculated separately from promotional benefits.
Official website: OVO Energy
Top 15 Cheapest Gas and Electric Suppliers Comparison
| Supplier | Approx. Cost (Dual Fuel/year) | Contract Type | Fuel Type | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Octopus Energy | £1,340 | Fixed & Variable | Renewable Electricity + Gas | Tech-savvy users wanting green energy |
| Utility Warehouse | £1,320 (with bundles) | Fixed (12-month) | Standard Dual Fuel | Bundled utility and broadband customers |
| Utilita | £1,410 | Prepayment | Standard Dual Fuel | Prepay households needing app-based control |
| 100Green | £1,470 | Fixed | 100% Renewable | Eco-focused users wanting carbon-neutral gas |
| E (Energy) | £1,310 | Fixed | Standard Dual Fuel | Budget users preferring simplicity |
| Co-op Energy | £1,380 | Fixed & Flexible | Renewable Electricity | Ethical consumers supporting cooperatives |
| Outfox the Market | £1,290 | Variable | Standard Dual Fuel | Cost-conscious digital-first users |
| Ecotricity | £1,480 | Monthly & Fixed | Green Electricity + Gas | Ethical investment in renewables |
| Sainsbury’s Energy | £1,360 | Fixed | Standard Dual Fuel | Supermarket shoppers earning rewards |
| EDF Energy | £1,395 | Fixed & Variable | Standard Dual Fuel | Households preferring big-name providers |
| E.ON Next | £1,370 | Variable & Fixed | Standard + Green Options | Users seeking digital-first service |
| So Energy | £1,350 | Fixed | Renewable Electricity | Green-minded customers wanting fixed rates |
| British Gas | £1,430 | Fixed & Bundled | Standard Dual Fuel | Traditional users needing service add-ons |
| ScottishPower | Quote required | Fixed & Variable | Standard Dual Fuel + Green Options | Households wanting fixed tariffs and renewable electricity |
| OVO Energy | Quote required | Fixed & Variable | Standard Dual Fuel + Green Options | Smart-meter users, EV owners and rewards seekers |
Conclusion
The energy market offers more variety than ever, balancing affordability, sustainability, and service quality.
Whether you’re after the lowest price or ethical sourcing, there’s a supplier tailored to your needs.
Regularly reviewing your usage and switching when necessary is still the smartest way to ensure you’re never overpaying for your gas and electricity.
FAQs
What is the average UK household energy cost?
The average annual cost for dual fuel is around £1,400, depending on region and usage.
Can renters switch energy suppliers?
Yes, if you pay the bill directly, you’re legally allowed to switch providers.
Are smart meters required for switching?
No, but having a smart meter can offer more accurate billing and enable time-based tariffs.
What is a standing charge?
It’s a daily fixed fee added to your energy bill regardless of usage, varying by supplier.
Is 100% renewable electricity more expensive?
Not necessarily, many green suppliers now offer prices similar to standard tariffs.
How quickly can I switch energy suppliers?
Most switches take 5 working days with no interruption to your service.
Are bundled utility packages worth it?
They can offer savings, especially if you need broadband or mobile services too.
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