Skip to main content

How can I ensure I'm getting the best electricity deal in the UK?

How can I ensure I'm getting the best electricity deal in the UK?

Find Help

CAPTCHA
Solve this simple math problem and enter the result. E.g. for 1+3, enter 4.
This question is for testing whether or not you are a human visitor and to prevent automated spam submissions.

More Items From Ergsy search


Getting the Best Electricity Deal in the UK

Understanding Your Electricity Usage

Before you begin comparing electricity deals, it’s essential to understand your electricity usage. Review your most recent electricity bills to identify your average monthly usage and costs. Note any patterns or changes, such as seasonal increases in energy use, which can help you determine what kind of deal suits your needs.

Compare Electricity Suppliers

There are multiple electricity suppliers in the UK, each offering different tariffs and rates. Utilize comparison websites such as Uswitch, Compare the Market, or MoneySuperMarket to compare offerings from various suppliers. These platforms allow you to input your usage data to find a tailored list of potential deals. Pay attention to both unit rates and standing charges as these can vary significantly between suppliers.

Consider Different Types of Tariffs

Electricity suppliers typically offer several types of tariffs. Standard variable tariffs can go up or down with the market, while fixed-rate tariffs lock in a price for a set period. Look for exclusive or online tariffs that might offer added value such as discounts or rewards. Assess time-of-use tariffs, like Economy 7 or Economy 10, if you use electricity more during off-peak hours.

Check for Green Energy Options

If sustainability is a priority, consider green tariffs that guarantee a portion or all of your electricity comes from renewable sources. Be sure to verify the supplier's green credentials through organizations like Renewable Energy Guarantees of Origin (REGO) to ensure you are supporting genuinely renewable energy projects.

Read the Fine Print

Before committing to a deal, carefully read the terms and conditions. Look for hidden costs such as exit fees or penalties for overuse. Understanding these terms will ensure you don’t inadvertently incur additional charges or find yourself unable to switch suppliers should a better deal arise later.

Monitor and Review Regularly

Your energy needs and market conditions may change, so regularly reviewing your energy deal is essential. Set annual or biannual reminders to reassess your supplier and tariff. Regularly monitoring your usage and market offers can help you spot opportunities to save even more by switching or negotiating a better deal with your current supplier.

Use Government and Charitable Resources

Make use of resources such as the government’s Energy Price Cap, which limits the maximum price suppliers can charge on default tariffs. Also, consult charitable organizations like Citizens Advice for guidance on understanding and negotiating energy deals. Knowledge from these sources can empower you to make more informed decisions regarding your electricity consumption.

Getting the Best Electricity Deal in the UK

Know Your Electricity Use

Before you look for better electricity deals, know how much electricity you use. Check your recent bills to see how much you use and spend each month. Look for patterns, like using more in winter. This helps you find the best deal for you.

Compare Electricity Companies

There are many electricity companies in the UK. Each company has different prices. Use websites like Uswitch, Compare the Market, or MoneySuperMarket. These sites help you compare prices by entering how much electricity you use. Look at both price per unit and standing charges as these can be very different between companies.

Look at Different Price Plans

Electricity companies have different price plans. Standard variable plans can change with the market. Fixed-rate plans keep the same price for a set time. Look for special online plans that might give discounts. If you use electricity more at night, check out plans like Economy 7 that offer cheaper rates at night.

Think About Green Energy

If you care about the environment, look for green energy plans. These plans promise to use renewable energy, like wind or solar. Check that the company is really using green energy. Look for certificates like REGO to make sure it's true.

Read the Details

Before you choose a plan, read everything carefully. Look for costs you didn't expect, like fees if you use too much electricity. This will help avoid extra charges and let you switch plans easily if you find a better deal later.

Check Regularly

Your electricity needs can change. The market can change too. So, check your electricity deal every year. This helps you find better prices or negotiate with your supplier to save money.

Use Help from the Government and Charities

The government has an Energy Price Cap that limits how much companies can charge. Charities like Citizens Advice can help you understand and choose energy plans. Use these resources to make better choices about your electricity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the first step to finding the best electricity deal in the UK?

The first step is to understand your current electricity usage by checking your recent bills or smart meter data. This will help you compare deals accurately.

How often should I compare electricity deals?

It's a good idea to compare electricity deals at least once a year or whenever your current deal is about to expire.

What tools can I use to compare electricity deals in the UK?

You can use online comparison websites such as uSwitch, Compare the Market, and MoneySuperMarket, which allow you to compare deals based on your specific needs and location.

Should I consider fixed or variable rate electricity deals?

Fixed-rate deals offer price stability for a set period, while variable rates can fluctuate. Consider your preference for stability versus the potential to benefit from market changes.

What additional charges should I look out for when comparing deals?

Look out for standing charges, exit fees for early termination, and any additional fees that might apply.

Can switching electricity providers save me money?

Yes, switching providers can often save you money, especially if you are currently on a standard tariff or have not switched recently.

How can I check if I am eligible to switch providers?

You are eligible to switch if you are not tied into a contract with an exit fee or if your deal is coming to an end. Most fixed-term contracts turn into variable tariffs afterwards, which allows switching.

Is it possible to switch electricity providers if I have a smart meter?

Yes, you can switch providers with a smart meter. However, it’s important to verify that the new provider supports your smart meter’s functionality.

How do renewable energy tariffs compare to standard tariffs?

Renewable energy tariffs often compete well with standard tariffs and allow you to support clean energy. However, be sure to compare the specifics of each deal.

What is the role of the Energy Switch Guarantee?

The Energy Switch Guarantee is a commitment by energy providers to ensure a hassle-free and reliable switch within 21 days, ensuring continuity of service.

Do I need to inform my current provider if I decide to switch electricity suppliers?

No, your new supplier will handle the switch for you, including informing your current provider.

How can I ensure the reliability of the new electricity supplier?

Check the supplier's customer service records, read reviews, and verify that they are a member of recognized schemes like the Energy Switch Guarantee.

Can I switch suppliers if I am renting a property?

Yes, if you are responsible for paying the energy bills and are not prohibited by your tenancy agreement from switching suppliers.

What information do I need to provide to switch electricity providers?

You’ll need your postcode, current supplier and tariff details, how much electricity you use (a recent bill will help), and your bank details if you’re setting up a direct debit.

Are there any government schemes available to help with electricity costs?

Yes, schemes such as the Warm Home Discount and the Winter Fuel Payment can help eligible customers with electricity costs.

What is a dual fuel deal and should I consider it?

A dual fuel deal combines both gas and electricity from one supplier, often with a discount. Consider it if it provides a better deal than separate suppliers for each.

Can I return to my previous electricity provider after switching?

Yes, you can switch back to your previous provider, but be aware of any exit fees from your current contract.

How does my electricity usage impact the deals available to me?

Higher usage may benefit more from deals with lower unit rates but higher standing charges, while lower usage might benefit from the opposite. Careful comparison is key.

Are online-only electricity deals better?

Online-only deals can be cheaper as they are managed entirely digitally, but they may come with less customer service support via phone.

What should I do if I have issues during the switching process?

Contact your new supplier first to resolve issues. They are responsible for managing the switch, and any complaints can be escalated to the Energy Ombudsman if necessary.

How do you start to find the best electricity deal in the UK?

The first step is to look at how much electricity you use. You can do this by looking at your latest bills or the data from your smart meter. This will help you find the best deal for you.

How often should I check electricity prices?

You should check electricity prices every year.

If you see a good price, you can save money.

You can use a price comparison website to help you.

It is a smart idea to look at different electricity deals once every year. You should also check when your current deal is about to end.

How can I find the best electricity deals in the UK?

Here are some tips:

  • Use websites that help you compare prices. They show different electricity deals.
  • Ask an adult to help you use these websites.
  • Try using apps on your phone. They can show you the cheapest options.
  • Look for advice from groups that help people save money on bills.

Don't be afraid to ask for help if you need it!

You can use websites like uSwitch, Compare the Market, and MoneySuperMarket. These websites help you find the best deals for what you need and where you live.

Which electricity deal is better: fixed rate or variable rate?

Fixed-rate deals mean you pay the same price for a set time. Variable rates can go up or down. Think about if you want a steady price or are willing to take a chance on changes in the market.

What extra costs should I watch for when looking at deals?

When you look at different deals, check for hidden costs. These are extra charges that might not be obvious at first. Always read all the details. Use a calculator to add up all costs. Ask someone you trust to help if you find it tricky.

Watch out for extra costs. These can include fees you pay each day, fees if you stop the service early, and any other charges you might face.

Can changing my electricity company save me money?

If you change to a different electricity company, you might spend less money.

Here are some tips to help you:

  • Make a list of different electricity companies.
  • Check the prices they charge.
  • See if they have any special offers.
  • Use a comparison website that can show you which company is cheaper.

Ask a friend or family member to help you if you find it hard.

Yes, changing your service provider can save you money, especially if you've been using the same one for a long time.

Am I allowed to change my provider?

Do you want to change your provider? This means using a different company for your service. Here is how to check if you can change:

  • Look at your current contract. Contracts are the rules that say what you can and cannot do.
  • Ask someone for help if you do not understand the contract. They can be a family member or a friend.
  • Check if there are any fees. Fees are extra costs you might have to pay.

Here are some tools that can help you:

  • The company’s website. They might have a guide or chat to help you.
  • Customer service. You can call or email them with questions.

You can switch if you don't have a contract that makes you pay to leave, or if your deal is ending soon. Most contracts for a set time change to a flexible plan after that, so you can switch.

Can I change my electricity company if I have a smart meter?

Yes, you can change to a different electricity company even if you have a smart meter.

Here are some tips to help:

  • Talk to someone who can help, like a friend or family member.
  • Use simple apps or websites that explain how to switch companies.
  • Call the new electricity company, and they can guide you through the steps.

Yes, you can change to a new energy company if you have a smart meter. But first, check that the new company can use your smart meter properly.

What is the difference between renewable energy prices and regular energy prices?

Renewable energy plans can often be as good as regular plans. They help you support clean energy. But make sure to check the details of each plan carefully.

What does the Energy Switch Guarantee do?

The Energy Switch Guarantee helps people change their energy supplier more easily. It makes sure the switch is quick and simple, so you don't have to worry. If you decide to switch, it means you can get a better deal on your energy bills. This can save you money.

Helpful tips:

  • Ask someone if you need help to switch energy companies.
  • Look at different energy offers online or ask for printed ones.
  • Use a calculator to check how much money you can save.

The Energy Switch Promise is a promise from energy companies. They say they will make sure changing your energy company is easy and quick. This should not take more than 21 days. You will still have energy while you change.

Do I need to tell my electricity company if I want to change to a new one?

No, you do not need to do anything. Your new supplier will take care of the switch. They will also tell your current provider about it.

How can I make sure the new electricity company is good?

Look at how customers say the supplier treats them. Read what other people think about them. Make sure they are part of trusted groups like the Energy Switch Guarantee.

Can I change my energy company if I rent a home?

Yes, you can change your energy supplier if you pay the energy bills and your rental agreement does not say you can't.

What do I need to tell to change electricity companies?

Here is a list of things you need to have ready:

  • Your current electricity bill. This has details about your usage and plan.
  • Your personal details, like your name and address.
  • Your current electricity company name.

Helpful tools:

  • Ask someone you trust to help you.
  • Use a checklist to make sure you have everything.
  • Use a calculator if you need to add up numbers.

You need to have these things ready:

  • Your postcode (where you live).
  • The name of your current energy company.
  • The name of your current energy plan.
  • Information on how much electricity you use (you can find this on a recent bill).
  • Your bank details if you want to pay with direct debit.

If reading is hard, try using tools like text-to-speech apps. They can read out loud for you.

Can the government help with electricity bills?

Sometimes the government can help you pay for electricity. You can ask someone to help you find out more. Try to talk to a family member, friend, or carer.

Useful tools:

  • Ask someone to call your local council for more information.
  • Visit a local support center or library for help.

Yes, there are programs that can help you pay for electricity. These are called the Warm Home Discount and the Winter Fuel Payment. They help people who qualify.

What is a dual fuel deal and should I think about it?

A dual fuel deal means getting your gas and electricity from the same company.

You might save money and get one easy bill.

It can be easier to talk to just one company if you have a problem.

Think about what makes you happy. Do you like saving money and having things simple?

You can ask family or friends for help or use a calculator to see if it saves money.

A dual fuel deal means buying both gas and electricity from the same company. This often comes with a discount. It can be a good idea if it saves you more money than having different companies for gas and electricity.

To help understand better, you can:

  • Use a calculator to compare prices.
  • Ask a family member or friend to help explain.
  • Look for pictures or charts that show how much you can save.

Can I go back to my old electricity company after changing?

Yes, you can go back to your old electricity company. Here’s how:

  • Call your old company and tell them you want to come back.
  • Check if there are any fees for switching back.
  • Make sure you have your account details ready.

If you need help, you can ask a friend or family member to help you call or fill out forms.

Yes, you can go back to the provider you had before. But remember, you might have to pay a fee to leave your current contract.

How does my electricity use change the offers I can get?

If you use a lot of energy, find a plan with low costs per unit but maybe higher daily fees. If you use less energy, look for plans with low daily fees but maybe higher unit costs. It's important to look closely and compare.

Are online electricity plans better?

Some electricity deals are only available on the internet. These are called online electricity plans. But are they better?

Here’s what you should know:

  • Online deals might be cheaper because there are fewer paper bills.
  • You may need a computer, tablet, or phone to see and pay your bill.
  • If you have questions, you might need to send an email instead of calling.

Here are some tools to help you:

  • You could use a calculator to see if an online deal saves money.
  • Ask a family member or friend to help look at online deals with you.

Think about what works best for you before choosing a plan.

Deals you find only online can cost less money because everything is done on the internet. But, you might not get as much help if you want to talk to someone on the phone.

What can I do if I have problems when switching?

First, talk to your new energy company if there is a problem. They need to help you switch. If you still have a problem, you can ask the Energy Ombudsman to help.

Useful Links

Useful Links : How can I ensure I'm getting the best electricity deal in the UK?
Citizens Advice - How to Switch Energy Supplier

Guidance from Citizens Advice on how to switch your energy supplier to get a better deal.
Energy Saving Trust - Tips and Advice

The Energy Saving Trust provides practical advice on saving energy and reducing bills.
Ofgem - Be an Energy Shopper

Ofgem's guide to help consumers shop around and find the best energy deals.
Money Advice Service - Help with Energy Bills

Advice from the Money Advice Service on cutting your energy bills and getting the best deals.
Simple Energy Advice - Find out how to save

Simple Energy Advice provides government-endorsed advice on how to make your home more energy efficient.
Turn2us - Help with Utility Costs

Turn2us offers help and advice for people struggling to pay their utility bills.
Age UK - Save on Energy Bills

Age UK provides information on saving money on energy bills for older people.
National Energy Action - Support for Energy Bills

National Energy Action offers advice and support to help manage energy bills.
Important Information On Using This Service
  • Ergsy carfully checks the information in the videos we provide here.
  • Videos shown by Youtube after a video has completed, have NOT been reviewed by ERGSY.
  • To view, click the arrow in centre of video.
Using Subtitles and Closed Captions
  • Most of the videos you find here will have subtitles and/or closed captions available.
  • You may need to turn these on, and choose your preferred language.
Turn Captions On or Off
  • Go to the video you'd like to watch.
  • If closed captions (CC) are available, settings will be visible on the bottom right of the video player.
  • To turn on Captions, click settings .
  • To turn off Captions, click settings again.

More Items From Ergsy search