Energy comparison
With energy prices rising along with our usage during winter, this is the time to see if you could save money with a fixed deal. Run an energy comparison now to protect yourself against high rates.
Should I switch energy this winter?
With the price cap due to increase to £1,738 from 1 January next year and our energy usage also increasing during the winter months, this is a good time to switch to a fixed deal. But it's not the only option out there when making sure you’re not paying more than you need to for your energy.
You could:
- Switch to a fixed energy deal. There are fixed price deals currently available that could save you around £100 a year if you switched from a standard variable tariff where prices are set by the price cap. This would give you certainty about what you're paying for your energy this winter, with prices currently predicted to stay high until at least the spring. Remember to consider exit fees you might have to pay if you want to leave the deal early, as well as the deal length and how much your likely monthly payments would be. You can run an energy comparison to see what’s currently available, but there’s nothing wrong with staying on a variable tariff if there isn’t a deal right for you.
- Track your energy usage. Connecting a smart meter to the Uswitch app is one of the easiest ways to see if you’re using more energy than needed. You can then take steps to cut back to keep your bills as low as possible. It may not take much to make a difference. It might be as simple as reducing the time you spend in the shower or turning your thermostat down by a single degree. You can find other energy-saving ideas in our dedicated guide.
- Submit regular meter readings. If you don’t have a smart meter, this will ensure your account is kept up to date and you’ll be charged the right amount for the energy you've used.
- Consider home energy efficiency upgrades. These could include improving your wall or loft insulation, investing in more energy-efficient appliances or replacing your old boiler with a new one. While these might be more costly home improvements and not suitable for everyone, they can significantly reduce the amount you pay for energy each year.
Find out more about your energy options this winter
Why is energy still expensive?
Energy prices still haven’t fully recovered from the sudden increases in the autumn of 2021 that forced suppliers to remove deals from the market.
Although lower prices have allowed suppliers to reintroduce some deals, they are still much more expensive than before the energy market crisis. This is because there are still ongoing global conflicts, like the Ukraine-Russia and Israel-Gaza wars, that can dramatically affect the price of gas imports and therefore the overall price we pay for our energy.
Energy prices aren’t currently expected to reach low pre-crisis levels until the end of the decade.
Will energy prices go down soon?
While energy prices are predicted to stay high for the next few years, it's more difficult to predict what will happen to them in the short term. EDF predicts that the next price cap (coming into effect in January 2025) will increase slightly, so prices will stay high throughout the winter. The situation could change quickly, though, so keep an eye on market news if you're thinking of switching.
You can see the latest predictions below.
| Price cap level | Annual energy cost for an average usage medium-sized household paying by Direct Debit |
|---|---|
| 1 July to 30 September 2023 | £1,976 |
| 1 October to 31 December 2023 | £1,834 |
| 1 April to 30 June 2024 | £1,690 |
| 1 July to 30 September 2024 | £1,568 |
| 1 October to 31 December 2024 | £1,717 |
| Price cap 1 January to 31 March 2025 | £1,738 |
How does the energy price cap affect my bills?
The energy price cap is a cap on the unit rates and standing charges that energy suppliers can charge for their standard variable tariffs. It can rise or fall depending on wholesale energy market prices (the price suppliers pay for the energy they supply us with) and other factors. There are currently about 23 million households on a standard variable tariff, so they are affected by whether the price cap goes up or down.
The price cap is reported as an annual figure based on an average use dual fuel customer paying by direct debit.
From 1 October to 31 December, the price cap is set at:
- £1,717 for an average use dual fuel household paying by Direct Debit
- £1,669 for those with a prepayment meter.
However, your total energy bill is highly unlikely to be £1,717. You could pay more than the cap if you live in a bigger house or use more energy. You could also pay less if you use less.
From 1 January to 31 March 2025, the price cap will be set at:
- £1,738 for an average use dual fuel household paying by Direct Debit
- £1,690 for those with a prepayment meter.
How to compare energy prices
Comparing energy prices on Uswitch couldn’t be easier. The process only takes a few minutes and could help you save on your energy bills.
Enter your postcode above
Our system will use publicly-available data to pre-fill some of your details. You might also need to add a couple of details about your plan, such as your usage in kWh and the plan name, so it might help to have a bill to hand so you can refer to it.
Compare energy deals
The deals currently available on Uswitch will appear in the results table, along with their estimated annual costs which are based on your usage details. You'll be able to filter by plan type (dual fuel or electricity-only), rate type (fixed or variable), payment method and other features.
Confirm your switch
Once you've found a deal you'd like to switch to, confirm your switch and we'll do the rest - you don't have to speak to either supplier! Your switch should be completed within five days with no interruption to your supply. You'll also have a 14-day cooling-off period where you can cancel for free if you change your mind.
What should I consider when I compare energy deals?
Price: Make sure you can afford the deal you choose and don’t rush into one that you'll struggle to pay for. The price you pay through Direct Debit each month is usually based on your estimated energy usage over a year. This may not be the actual cost. Make sure you look at the unit rate and standing charge to work out how much you will be charged for your energy usage.
Exit fees: If you want to switch from a fixed deal after your 14-day cooling-off period, you might have to pay an exit fee. Not all tariffs have them but most do, so make sure you know whether yours does.
Deal length: Most deals are for 12 or 24 months. During this time the price cap could rise or fall depending on market conditions, so consider how long you would like to stay locked in for.
Other factors might be important to you, such as:
- The type of tariff (dual or single fuel)
- Whether a deal uses renewable energy
- The cost of any exit fees.
Energy comparison sites like Uswitch help you quickly compare energy deals that work for you and handle the energy switch on your behalf.
Can I compare gas and electricity deals individually?
Those who use both gas and electricity may prefer to compare energy prices for gas-only energy deals or electricity-only energy deals, as opposed to combining them in one deal. This can sometimes work out cheaper than a dual fuel energy deal depending on the supplier. You can see deals for individual fuels on the results table by using the filters provided.
Can I get a green energy deal with Uswitch?
If you want to switch energy to a greener option, look for our Green Accreditation badges on the results table.
Every green energy deal Uswitch offers is rated as either Bronze, Silver or Gold, depending on how ‘green’ the deal is and how the energy you receive is sourced. Clicking on a specific deal will tell you why it’s been given its rating.
What happens when I switch energy?
When you confirm your switch, you’ll get an email from your chosen supplier within a day or two to notify you that it’s going ahead. Once it’s completed you’ll get another email confirming that you’re officially getting your energy from your new supplier. Your supply won’t be cut off at any point, so you can sit back and relax.
How long will it take to switch energy?
Most UK energy suppliers are signed up to the Energy Switch Guarantee. This guarantees that the supplier you’re switching to will complete the process within five days.
What if I change my mind about my energy switch?
If you change your mind, there’s a two-week ‘cooling-off’ period when you can cancel the switch free of charge.
What types of energy tariff are there?
Fixed rate tariff
Fixed rate tariffs have fixed unit rates and standing charges for the duration of the contract. This means they’re not affected by wholesale market or price cap changes, so you have price certainty during your contract.
Find out more about fixed rate tariffs
Standard variable tariff
Standard variable tariffs are traditionally the most expensive tariff type, though this has changed in the past few years. They're capped by the price cap, which means that if the price cap increases, so do your unit rates.
Find out more about standard variable tariffs
Dual fuel tariff
Dual fuel tariffs allow you to get gas and electricity from the same supplier, which can work out more cheaply than getting them individually. It's worth comparing dual fuel deals and separate gas and electricity deals to work out the best option for you.
Find out more about dual fuel tariffs
Renewable/green energy tariff
Green energy is increasingly common. Most suppliers now offer tariffs that feature electricity generated from renewable sources (though renewable gas is more difficult to achieve). Use table filters to see green deals when you compare.
Find out more about green energy tariffs
Prepayment tariff
Prepayment tariffs require energy to be bought in advance and topped up via your meter. This is often more expensive than being on a credit meter. Suppliers usually offer at least one prepayment tariff.
Find out more about prepayment energy
Time-of-use/Economy 7/electric vehicle tariff
Time-of-use tariffs such as Economy 7 offer multiple unit rates for day and night-time use, with night-time use usually being significantly cheaper than day-time use. This can be good for electric vehicle owners with home chargers.
What support can I get if I'm struggling with my energy bills?
There are three main energy support schemes available throughout the winter for those who qualify:
Targeted support is also available for the most vulnerable customers from suppliers, local authorities and charitable organisations, including:
If you're struggling with your bill payments, the best first step is to contact your supplier to see how it can help. Most of them have hardship funds, but will also be able to work on payment plans or even waive fees in some cases.
You might also be able to claim back energy credit from your account.
What's happening with the Winter Fuel Payment?
25 September 2024: The government has restricted the Winter Fuel Payment (worth up to £300) to those of state pension age who receive Pension Credit or certain other benefits. That means some people will miss out, although an estimated 880,000 people are eligible for Pension Credit who don't currently claim it.
Although the regulations are already in force as they do not need to be voted on by MPs, delegates at the 2024 Labour Conference in Liverpool have voted against the cut to Winter Fuel Payments.
How can I save on my energy bills at home?
As well as switching your energy deal, you can help reduce your bills by using less energy around the home. Here are six things you can do this winter:
Reduce shower time to four minutes
Taking four-minute showers will mean you use less water and less energy is used heating the water. This could save £60 per year.
Use an air fryer instead of an oven
Air fryers use less energy than an oven, so if you have one, use it as much as possible to save energy.
Reduce dishwasher use by one run per week
If you have a dishwasher, try to use it less. Reducing usage by one run per week could save £12 per year.
Wash clothes at lower temperatures
You should only need to wash clothes at 30 degrees rather than 40. Doing this could save £24 per year.
Dry clothes on a heated airer
If you have a heated airer, you can save energy by using it to dry clothes rather than using a tumble dryer.
Don’t overfill the kettle
If you're making a hot drink, try not to overfill the kettle and waste energy boiling more water than you need. This could save £26 per year.
"A decent range of fixed deals are back on the market. With the price cap currently £1,717 per year and energy costs predicted to stay high throughout the winter, this is a good time to switch to protect yourself.
"If switching isn't right for you, there are other options. Tracking your usage, submitting regular meter readings and upgrading your home are some ways you can keep your bills as low as possible."
Save money on your business energy
Compare prices from trusted UK business energy suppliers and get your next business energy deal in minutes.
FAQs about energy prices and suppliers
Energy prices
How can I get a cheap gas and electricity deal?
It's going to be difficult, given the current state of the energy market, for many customers to find a cheap gas and electricity deal. Energy prices have risen by a significant amount, with deals a lot more expensive than they were a few years ago.
A standard variable tariff, which is capped at £1,717 from 1 October to 31 December may be the cheapest deal available for many customers. But some fixed deals could offer price certainty. Consider your options carefully and check out our energy Q&A here for more information.
Which is the cheapest energy supplier?
The cheapest gas and electricity supplier could be different for everyone. It depends on factors like usage, your current deal and where you live. When comparing energy deals, be as accurate as possible with your information so we can find the cheapest supplier for you.
Which is the best energy supplier?
The best gas and electricity supplier for you won’t necessarily be the same as the best supplier for your neighbour. It depends on what's important to you in a supplier. You can use Uswitch to filter deals by factors other than price, like green energy.
How often do energy prices change?
Energy prices can change every day as they reflect the market news. If you're on a variable plan, your rates will probably change throughout the year. They're currently set at £1,717 until 31 December 2024, but will rise to £1,738 from 1 January.
On a fixed plan, your rates will stay the same during the fixed period.
What was the Energy Price Guarantee?
The Energy Price Guarantee was introduced by the government as a response to the high price cap announced by Ofgem in August 2022. It froze the price cap at £2,500 until July 2023, when the price cap fell below that limit.
The EPG ran in the background until April 2024 at a higher level of £3,000. This meant that the price cap needed to be forecast higher than £3,000 per year for an average household for the EPG to come into effect again. However, the government withdrew it as a policy, so it is no longer in effect at all, regardless of the price cap level.
How to switch energy
Why should I switch energy?
The main reason to switch energy is to find a cheaper deal than the one you’re currently on. This hasn’t been easy in the past couple of years because of the wholesale energy market crisis causing high prices. With the market more stable, though, suppliers are offering affordable fixed energy deals again. You may still wish to stay on a standard variable energy tariff if you're on one. But if you want certainty over what you’re paying, run an energy comparison now to see what you could switch to.
Do I need to cancel my Direct Debit when I switch?
There’s no need to get in touch with your old supplier once you’ve made your energy switch. Once it’s been told of your switch, the supplier should send a final bill and close your old account once you’ve paid any outstanding amount.
While there’s no need to cancel your Direct Debit, you can do this through your bank if you want to be more confident you won’t still be charged. Just remember to settle your final bill first.
Can I switch energy supplier if I owe my current supplier money?
You can switch energy supplier if you’ve been in debt for fewer than 28 days - the money you owe will be added to your final bill. If you’ve been in debt for longer, you probably won’t be able to switch until you’ve settled that debt (unless the supplier’s billed you incorrectly).
If you’re on a prepayment meter, you can switch as long as the debt to your current supplier is less than £500.
I'm moving home. How do I switch gas and electricity?
If you’re moving and you want to take your current deal with you, let your provider know - depending on where you’re moving to, you may be able to take it with you. If not, you’re free to switch away from the default supplier at your new property.
One thing to remember to do is take a meter reading on the day you move out, and take another one at the new property when you move in. This will ensure you’re only paying for what you use.
Can I switch energy supplier if I rent?
You can usually switch energy supplier if you’re a renter who pays the energy bills. If the landlord pays the energy bills, you’ll need to get their permission.
What if I want to compare gas and electricity prices separately?
If you want to see only gas deals or electricity deals, you can filter available tariffs on our results table.
Can I switch to the same energy supplier?
If you don’t want to switch energy supplier, you still might be able to find a cheap gas and electricity deal with Uswitch.
If you haven’t switched energy before, you're likely on your provider’s standard variable tariff, which is typically the most expensive tariff. You can use Uswitch to compare energy deals from your current provider if you’re happy with the service but want to save on your energy bills.
Can I switch energy if I have a prepayment meter?
Yes, you can switch energy if you’re on a prepayment meter. Select ‘Prepayment meter’ when you’re asked how you pay your energy bills. You can tell you’re on a prepayment meter if you pay in advance with a smart card, token or key. You can also switch away from using a prepayment meter by replacing it with a credit meter.
