Compare energy deals

Why compare energy suppliers?

Comparing energy suppliers is an essential part of looking for a new energy deal and you’ll find many energy comparison sites out there. We use the Uswitch energy comparison engine to look at multiple providers simultaneously to give you a complete picture of the sorts of prices you could be paying, and which ones are the best value. On TrustPilot, Uswitch user Daisy Cullen says:

This is a common theme - energy suppliers will usually roll you onto a more expensive variable deal when your current deal comes to an end. This is why you should switch your deal regularly.

Of course, when you compare energy prices you should also look at other factors to help you determine the best energy deals available, and the best energy supplier for your individual needs. An energy comparison includes all these criteria in its results, but you should also look at our individual energy supplier guides.

How do I make an energy comparison?

Energy comparisons can be completed in four simple steps:

1. Enter your postcode

Your physical location will determine what suppliers and plans are available to you. By providing this information we can narrow down our search to energy suppliers and tariffs that are available in your area.

2. Tell us about your current plan

Let us know how much you pay or how much energy you use each month so our prices can best reflect your estimated monthly cost.

3. Compare energy prices and pick one

We’ll list all the best deals around, which you can filter by fuel, payment method, plan type and more – just pick the one that’s best for you.

4. Switch in seconds

All we need is your address and bank details to get the ball rolling on your energy switch, which will be complete in just 21 days. 

What should I look for when I perform an energy comparison?

When viewing the range of energy plans available, you can filter them by the following options:

Fixed price and variable plans

Fixed price energy plans ensure that the price you pay per unit of energy you use stays the same until the end of your contract. Variable energy plans are subject to change, so your unit prices – and thus your energy bill – may go up or down.

Single or dual fuel plans

Single-fuel plans are aimed at those who only use electricity or gas, while dual-fuel plans are targeted at those who use both gas and electric. 

Energy exit fees

Exit fees are usually added to fixed energy plans to guard against customers leaving the plans early. You can still leave, but you’ll have to pay a certain amount per fuel you’re signed up to. Some plans – including most (if not all) variable plans – don’t come with exit fees, and you can filter your results to view only those that don’t charge an exit fee.

Payment methods 

You can pay for your energy in a variety of ways, whether it’s regular monthly payments by direct debit, on production of your bill (via debit or credit card, or cheque), or by topping up a prepayment meter, which ensures you only pay for the energy you use in advance of using it. There are options to suit all payment types here.

Green energy

Energy providers are increasingly moving towards green energy sources, but if you want to be 100% sure your gas and electricity is green then use our handy filter.

Which energy suppliers does Money.co.uk run electricity price comparisons for?

We cover a huge range of suppliers so you can find the very best deals. The providers we list include:

Which suppliers offer single fuel?

Plenty of leading names will offer you single fuel deals on either electricity or gas including: 

Compare energy for smart meter plans

Most suppliers have plans that come with smart meter options. Some plans offer cheaper prices so long as you agree to have a smart meter fitted if you’ve not already got one. Some smart meters become ‘dumb’ if you switch away from the supplier that installed it, which means that while you’ll still be able to monitor your own usage, you’ll have to revert to manually submitting regular meter readings as you did previously. This will only happen if you have an older – SMETS1 generation – smart meter. Any smart meter currently being installed should be a SMETS2 meter, which works with all suppliers, not just your current one, but double-check with your installer that this is the case.

Energy comparison FAQs  

Is it cheaper to buy gas and electric together?

Sometimes. People often think a dual fuel plan is cheaper than two separate plans, but this isn’t always the case. Certainly, it’s more convenient going with a single supplier for both gas and electric, as the start date for your fixed plan will be the same for both, making switching a lot easier going forward. But the choice is yours.

Does green gas and electric cost more?

Renewable electricity can cost more if your supplier requires you to pay a premium for it, either as a special plan or as an added fee on your current plan – however, 100% renewable electricity plans are becoming increasingly commonplace, and price-competitive. Green gas is harder to generate than electricity, so you may be looking at higher monthly costs for any gas that is renewable.

What do I do if my old energy supplier has gone into administration or ceased trading?

Don’t worry, any customers of a failed energy company will be automatically transferred to a new supplier. Your energy supply won’t be interrupted, but it does mean you’ll probably end up on the new supplier’s ‘deemed tariff’, which is usually an expensive standard variable tariff. If your energy supplier has gone bust, check with Ofgem. Its advice is to wait until the new supplier is in place, but you’ll want to sort out an energy switch as soon as possible so you don’t end up spending more than necessary.

When can I make an energy switch?

You can make an energy switch at any time. If your contract comes with exit fees, you’ll have to pay these unless it has 49 days or less to run, in which case you’re in the ‘switching window’ where you can move to a new tariff or supplier without penalty. If you’re desperate to switch even if you may still be subject to exit fees, look for a supplier that’s willing to pay some or all of your exit fees in return for gaining a new customer. 

Can I switch energy supplier in a rented house?

You should read your tenancy agreement carefully to find out if you can change energy suppliers in a rented property. If you’re responsible for paying your energy bill, your landlord should allow you to change supplier. If the landlord is responsible, you’ll probably have to stay as you are.

What is Economy 7 and Economy 10?

These are special so-called ‘multi-rate’ energy plans that may be able to save you money on electricity by pricing it differently at peak and off-peak times. Economy 7 gives you seven hours of off-peak pricing, and Economy 10 gives you ten. You’ll need a special meter fitted and you need to be able to move most of your energy usage to these lower-priced night-time hours to make it worthwhile.

Can I switch gas supplier or electricity supplier only?

You can change suppliers in any way you see fit, either from dual fuel to two single fuels or vice versa. You will still have to pay any exit fees if these are part of your plan. Note that while it’s possible to have separate suppliers for single-fuel electricity and gas-only plans, you can’t change tariff or supplier for just half of your dual-fuel plan while carrying on as normal with the other half.

How often can I switch energy suppliers?

Every 28 days – this doesn’t mean early exit fees won’t apply, though, so check your fixed-price plan carefully to see whether you’ll be liable.