Finding the Cheapest Gas and Electricity Suppliers in the UK
Finding the cheapest gas and electricity suppliers in the UK takes research, but switching providers can achieve significant savings.
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Compare Prices on Comparison Websites
The first step in finding cheaper gas and electricity is to use online price comparison sites like Compare the Market, Confused.com, MoneySuperMarket, and uSwitch. These platforms allow you to enter your postcode and energy usage details to compare prices and tariffs from all the major suppliers.
Start by indicating your actual or estimated annual gas and electricity consumption. Usage significantly impacts which deals provide the lowest overall cost. You’ll also need to share your current payment method and if you have any appliances like electric vehicles that affect consumption.
Entering accurate details ensures the quotes match your household’s profile. Make sure to check that discounts, such as for paying by direct debit, are included in the estimated annual costs. This provides an accurate like-for-like comparison.
Sort the results by the lowest to the highest yearly price to see which suppliers and plans offer the cheapest rates. Comparison websites streamline the process into a few minutes by surfacing the best deals in your area.
Look for Fixed Rate Tariffs
One key strategy for saving money on energy bills is to switch to a fixed rate tariff, which locks in a set unit price for gas and electricity for 12, 18, or 24 months. While the rates may be slightly higher than the variable price cap, fixing your costs avoids unpredictable price hikes. This provides price certainty and stability, making budgeting easier. Be sure to compare fixed-rate deals carefully, as shorter 12-month terms sometimes offer lower rates than more extended contracts. Suppliers like Ovo Energy, Green, and Octopus Energy regularly provide some of the cheapest fixes.
Remember that once your contract term ends, you’ll revert to the default standard variable tariff, which is usually much higher. Set a reminder to compare prices again and switch tariffs before expiry. Going fixed-to-fixed is the best way to pay low rates consistently.
Consider Smaller and Green Suppliers
In your comparison search, don’t limit yourself to Big Six firms like British Gas, SSE, E.ON, EDF, Scottish Power, and Npower. Some of the smallest energy suppliers, like Avro Energy, Outfox the Market, Green Energy UK, and Bulb Energy, often have among the lowest standard variable and fixed rate tariffs. Their size allows them to operate more efficiently and with lower overheads than large companies. Customer service satisfaction also tends to be higher with smaller providers.
Green energy suppliers like Good Energy, Ecotricity, and Octopus Energy are worth comparing. They invest in renewable energy from wind, solar, hydro, and biomass sources. Their green gas and electricity plans appeal to eco-conscious households. Even if their rates are slightly higher, some customers will pay extra to support sustainability. Ensure any claimed environmental benefits are backed up by valid credentials like REGO energy certificates.
See If You’re Eligible for Warm Home Discount
If you’re over pension age and receive the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit, or have a low household income, see if you qualify for the Warm Home Discount scheme. This government program provides vulnerable and low-income households with a one-off £150 rebate on their electricity bill during the winter. The top six suppliers of British Gas, Scottish Power, E.ON, EDF Energy, Npower, and SSE are mandated to participate, alongside some smaller companies like Octopus Energy, Outfox the Market, and Avro Energy.
Start by checking your eligibility. You qualify if you get the Guarantee Credit part of the Pension Credit, even if you get Savings Credit alone. Low-income people can also be eligible if they receive certain means-tested benefits and have high energy costs. Benefits include Income Support, Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, Income-related Employment and Support Allowance, Universal Credit, and Child Tax Credits. Apply by contacting participating suppliers directly, not the government. The £150 discount is applied automatically to eligible customers between October and March.
The Warm Home Discount provides vital relief to struggling households as energy costs rise.
Conclusion
Finding the cheapest gas and electricity provider takes a bit of research but is straightforward using price comparison websites. Enter your accurate usage and payment details to see precise, personalized annual costs incorporating discounts. Consider smaller suppliers alongside big brands and environmentally friendly providers too.
See if you qualify for the Warm Home Discount rebate. Opt for fixed-rate tariffs over variable plans to lock in lower rates. And take advantage of direct debit and paperless billing discounts. Set reminders to compare again and switch regularly, going fixed-to-fixed for the best savings.
With an organized approach and regular monitoring of the competitive market, UK households can save hundreds of pounds each year. While no one likes paying utility bills, securing the most affordable gas and electricity suppliers provides significant peace of mind.
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