On This Page
- Should You Switch Energy Supplier?
- What Is the Energy Price Cap?
- How Much Does Energy Cost in the UK?
- Will Energy Prices Fall?
- How to Compare Energy Deals
- Choosing the Right Energy Supplier
- Ways to Reduce Energy Bills
- Why Switch Energy Suppliers?
- Which Energy Tariff Is Best?
- Compare Business Energy
- Business Energy Comparison via Energy Save Experts
Should You Change Energy Supplier?
Switching energy provider could help reduce your monthly costs, especially if you’ve been on the same tariff for a while.
Whether changing supplier is worthwhile will depend on the type of tariff you currently have and what rates are available elsewhere.
Most households and businesses in the UK are on either a variable tariff or a fixed-rate tariff.
Variable Energy Tariffs
With a variable tariff, the price you pay for gas and electricity can go up or down over time. Energy suppliers must give notice before changing prices, and rates are usually influenced by Ofgem’s energy price cap.
One of the main advantages of a variable tariff is flexibility. In most cases, you can switch supplier or move to a different tariff without paying exit fees.
However, because prices can change, your bills may increase unexpectedly if market rates rise.
Fixed Energy Tariffs
A fixed tariff keeps your unit rates the same for an agreed period, often 12 months or longer. This can make budgeting easier because your energy rates won’t change during the contract term, even if market prices increase.
Although fixed deals can sometimes offer better value, they often include exit fees if you leave the agreement early to switch supplier.
A Good Time to Compare
If your fixed tariff is coming to an end, it’s worth checking what other deals are available before your contract expires.
Many suppliers automatically move customers onto a standard variable tariff once their fixed deal finishes, which may work out more expensive.
Comparing tariffs before this happens could help you secure a more competitive rate.
What Is the Energy Price Cap?
If you’re on a standard variable energy tariff, the amount you pay for gas and electricity is usually affected by the UK energy price cap.
The cap is reviewed by Ofgem every three months and places a limit on the unit rates and standing charges that suppliers can apply to variable tariffs.
Understanding Unit Rates
The unit rate is the price charged for the energy you use. Electricity and gas usage is measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh), and you pay a set amount for each unit consumed.
What Is a Standing Charge?
A standing charge is a fixed daily fee added to your bill by your supplier. This cost applies regardless of how much energy you use and helps cover the maintenance of the energy network and supply services.
Current Energy Price Cap Levels
For the period between 1 April and 30 June 2026, the average annual costs under the energy price cap are:
- £1,641 for customers paying by direct debit
- £1,597 for households using prepayment meters
- £1,772 for customers paying when they receive their bill
Does the Price Cap Limit Your Total Bill?
The energy price cap does not set a maximum household bill.
Instead, it limits the rates suppliers can charge for each unit of energy and the daily standing charge.
This means your final bill will still depend on how much gas and electricity your household uses.
Homes with higher energy consumption are likely to pay more than the average figures shown above.
How Much Does Energy Cost in the UK?
Energy prices in the UK are influenced by the current Ofgem energy price cap, which sets maximum unit rates and standing charges for customers on standard variable tariffs.
Current Unit Rates
The current average energy rates are:
- Gas: 5.74p per kWh
- Electricity: 24.67p per kWh
Daily Standing Charges
Alongside the unit rates, households also pay a daily standing charge to maintain their connection to the energy network.
- Gas standing charge: 29.09p per day
- Electricity standing charge: 57.21p per day
Average Household Energy Bills
According to estimates from the Energy Saving Trust in January 2026, the average annual household energy costs were:
- £947 per year for electricity in England, Scotland and Wales
- £809 per year for gas in England, Scotland and Wales
In Northern Ireland, estimated yearly costs were:
- £883 per year for electricity
- £1,145 per year for gas
Why Energy Bills Vary
Your actual energy bill may be higher or lower depending on factors such as property size, insulation levels, heating systems and overall energy usage.
Homes with poor insulation or higher occupancy levels will typically use more gas and electricity throughout the year.
Will Energy Prices Fall?
Energy prices can rise or fall throughout the year depending on wholesale market conditions, government policies and changes to the Ofgem energy price cap.
From 1 April 2026, the energy price cap reduced by an average of 7% for households paying by direct debit or prepayment meter. Customers who pay after receiving their bill saw an average reduction of around 6%.
Why Did Prices Reduce?
The recent drop in energy costs has been linked in part to measures announced by the government during the Autumn Budget, along with changes in wholesale energy markets.
Although this reduction has provided some relief for households, energy prices still remain significantly higher than they were a few years ago.
Could Prices Increase Again?
Energy market forecasts suggest prices may rise again later in the year.
Predictions can change, but analysts are already expecting the next price cap review to bring higher rates for many households.
On 26th March 2026, energy consultancy Cornwall Insight predicted the price cap could increase to around £1,934 for the period between 1st July and 30th September 2026.
Why Comparing Energy Deals Matters
Because energy prices can change regularly, comparing tariffs throughout the year can help you stay on a competitive deal.
Fixed-rate tariffs may also provide more certainty if you want protection from future price increases.
How to Compare Energy Deals and Switch Supplier
Changing your gas and electricity supplier is usually a quick and straightforward process.
Comparing available tariffs can help you find a deal that better suits your household and budget.
1. Enter Your Details in the Form Below
Start by entering your postcode and a few details about your home via the form below
This helps provide an estimate of your current energy usage and annual costs.
2. Compare Available Energy Tariffs
Once we have received your details, we'll send you a range of energy deals that may be available in your area.
You can filter tariffs based on your preferences, including:
- Fixed or variable tariffs
- Gas, electricity or dual fuel deals
- Payment methods
- Green energy options
- Contract length
You can also review tariff details to compare pricing, estimated annual costs and potential savings.
3. Switch to Your Chosen Supplier
After selecting a tariff, you’ll simply need to provide a few personal details to begin the switching process.
Your new supplier will normally handle the transfer on your behalf, including contacting your existing provider and arranging the changeover.
Will My Energy Supply Be Interrupted?
No. Your gas and electricity supply will continue as normal during the switch, and there should be no disruption to your service.
How to Choose the Right Energy Supplier
Finding the right energy supplier is about more than simply choosing the cheapest tariff.
It’s important to compare factors such as customer service, contract terms and renewable energy options before making a decision.
What Should You Look For?
When comparing suppliers, consider the following:
- Whether the tariff is competitively priced compared to the current energy price cap
- If a fixed-rate tariff would suit your budget and lifestyle
- The supplier’s reputation for customer support and reliability
- How much of their energy comes from renewable sources
- Whether there are exit fees for leaving the tariff early
- The length and flexibility of the contract
How Long Does Switching Take?
Most energy switches are completed within five working days under the Energy Switch Guarantee scheme, although some transfers may take slightly longer depending on your circumstances.
What Happens During the Switch?
Your gas and electricity supply will remain uninterrupted throughout the switching process. The main change is simply who supplies your energy and sends your bills.
Your new supplier will usually manage the transfer for you, including contacting your existing provider.
Can You Cancel After Switching?
Yes. Once you agree to a new energy contract, you normally have a 14-day cooling-off period.
During this time, you can cancel the switch without paying a penalty.
Ways to Reduce Your Home Energy Bills
Choosing a better energy tariff can help lower your costs, but there are also practical steps you can take at home to reduce energy usage and improve efficiency.
1. Lower Your Boiler Flow Temperature
If you have a combi boiler, the flow temperature may be set higher than necessary. Reducing the setting to around 60°C can improve efficiency and help cut heating costs without affecting comfort.
2. Turn Your Thermostat Down Slightly
Reducing your thermostat by just 1°C could make a noticeable difference to your annual energy bills. However, it’s generally recommended to keep your home heated to at least 18°C for health and comfort.
3. Use Smaller Cooking Appliances
Appliances such as air fryers usually heat up faster and use less electricity than a standard oven, making them a more energy-efficient option for many meals.
4. Wash Clothes at Lower Temperatures
Modern washing detergents are designed to work effectively at lower temperatures. Washing clothes at 30°C instead of higher settings can help reduce electricity usage.
5. Cut Unnecessary Energy Use
Simple habits such as turning lights off when leaving a room, unplugging unused devices and reducing heating in unused areas of the home can all help lower your bills.
6. Improve Insulation and Draught-Proofing
Keeping warm air inside your home is essential for reducing heating costs. Draught-proofing doors and windows, insulating pipes and adding loft insulation can all improve energy efficiency.
7. Submit Accurate Meter Readings
If you do not have a smart meter, providing regular meter readings helps ensure your bills are based on actual usage rather than estimates. This can help avoid overpaying for energy.
Why Switch Gas and Electricity Suppliers?
There are several reasons why homeowners choose to compare energy deals and move to a different supplier.
Switching could help you reduce costs, improve customer service or access greener energy options.
1. Find a More Competitive Deal
Energy prices can change regularly, so reviewing tariffs each year may help you secure a better rate for your gas and electricity.
Comparing suppliers allows you to explore different tariffs, contract types and payment options that may better suit your household budget.
2. Improve Customer Service
Price is not the only factor worth considering. Some households decide to switch because they are unhappy with their supplier’s customer support, billing process or communication.
Moving to a provider with stronger customer reviews and better service standards could improve your overall experience.
3. Choose Greener Energy
Many energy suppliers now invest heavily in renewable electricity generated from sources such as wind, solar and hydro power.
If reducing your environmental impact is important to you, comparing green energy tariffs can help you find a supplier that supports cleaner and more sustainable energy production.
4. Access Different Tariff Options
Some suppliers offer specialist tariffs designed for electric vehicles, smart meters or off-peak energy usage.
Switching could give you access to features and pricing structures that are better suited to your lifestyle.
Which Energy Tariff Is Right for You?
The best energy tariff for your home will depend on your budget, energy usage and personal preferences.
There are several different types of tariffs available, each offering different benefits.
Dual Fuel Tariffs
A dual fuel tariff combines your gas and electricity under one supplier. This can make managing your bills simpler and may sometimes offer better value compared to separate providers.
Green Energy Tariffs
Green energy tariffs are designed for households looking to reduce their environmental impact. These suppliers typically generate or purchase electricity from renewable sources such as wind, solar or hydro power.
Variable Tariffs
With a variable tariff, energy prices can increase or decrease over time depending on market conditions and the energy price cap. These tariffs often offer greater flexibility but less certainty when budgeting.
Fixed-Rate Tariffs
Fixed tariffs lock your unit rates for a set period, helping protect you from price rises during the contract term. This can make household budgeting easier and more predictable.
Prepayment Tariffs
Prepayment energy plans allow you to pay for your gas and electricity in advance using a prepayment meter. This can help some households manage spending more closely.
Economy 7 Tariffs
Economy 7 tariffs provide cheaper electricity rates during off-peak hours, usually overnight. They are often suitable for homes with storage heaters or households that use more electricity at night.
Electric Vehicle Energy Tariffs
Some suppliers offer specialist EV tariffs that provide lower electricity rates during selected off-peak periods, helping reduce the cost of charging an electric vehicle at home.
Time-of-Use Tariffs
Time-of-use tariffs charge different rates depending on the time of day. Electricity is usually cheaper when demand on the grid is lower and more expensive during peak periods.
Compare Business Energy Prices
Looking for a better deal on your commercial gas and electricity?
Eco Energy Ltd can help businesses compare energy tariffs from a range of suppliers to find competitive rates.
Whether you run a small office, retail shop, restaurant, warehouse or larger commercial premises, comparing business energy prices could help reduce operating costs and improve efficiency.
Simple Business Energy Comparisons
The process is straightforward. Provide a few details about your business and current energy usage, and a trusted business energy specialist will search for suitable tariffs on your behalf.
This can save valuable time while helping you explore a range of available options from different suppliers.
Support Throughout the Switching Process
Once you’ve chosen a suitable tariff, the switching process is usually handled for you. Your new supplier will arrange the transfer and help ensure there is no disruption to your energy supply.
Why Compare Business Energy?
- Potentially reduce monthly business overheads
- Access fixed or flexible commercial tariffs
- Explore renewable and green energy options
- Find contracts better suited to your business usage
- Save time by comparing multiple suppliers in one place
Helping you save money is our business
Eco Energy Ltd has partnered with Energy Save Experts, one of the UK’s fastest growing business energy comparison and switching specialists, to help commercial customers find competitive energy deals and manage the switching process from start to finish.
THE PROCESS
Fill out the form below
Complete the short form below and a member of the team will be in touch to discuss your energy comparison options.
Compare energy deals
Speak directly with an energy specialist who can help identify suitable tariffs for your business quickly and efficiently.
Hassle-free switch
A dedicated account manager will guide you through the switching process, ensuring a smooth transition.
Start saving money!
Begin taking advantage of improved energy rates, helping your company keep running costs under control.
Who are Energy Save Experts?
Energy Save Experts specialise in helping businesses reduce the cost of their gas and electricity bills through professional energy comparison and switching services.
Having supported businesses across the UK, their team works closely with commercial customers to identify competitive energy deals and suitable tariff options.
From the initial comparison through to the completed switch, Energy Save Experts manage the entire process to help ensure a smooth and hassle-free transition,.
This allows businesses to focus on their day-to-day operations while the experts handle the energy transfer.
