The Ultimate Checklist for Choosing an Energy Provider in the UK:
How To Get The Cheapest Energy Bills
1. Understand Your Energy Usage
To find the cheapest energy deals, you first need to understand how much energy your household consumes. Start by reviewing your previous energy bills to identify:
- Annual energy usage: Your energy provider usually lists this in kilowatt-hours (kWh) on your bill.
- Seasonal patterns: Do you use more energy during the winter months for heating or in the summer for cooling?
- Appliance usage: Identify high-energy appliances in your home, like electric heaters or tumble dryers.
Tools like smart meters can help you monitor your energy consumption in real time, making it easier to identify areas where you can cut costs.
2. Use Comparison Sites to Find Cheaper Deals
Comparison sites are the easiest way to find cheaper energy tariffs. These platforms allow you to input your energy usage and compare tariffs from various providers. Popular UK comparison sites include:
When using comparison sites:
- Check dual fuel options: Bundling gas and electricity often results in discounts.
- Input accurate data: Use your annual energy usage figures for precise results.
- Filter for fixed tariffs: Fixed-rate plans lock in your prices for a set period, protecting you from future price increases.
3. Look for the Cheapest Tariff Types
The type of energy tariff you choose significantly impacts your costs. Here are the main options:
- Fixed-Rate Tariffs: These offer a fixed price per unit of energy for the duration of your contract, providing stability and protection from price hikes.
- Variable-Rate Tariffs: Prices can go up or down based on the wholesale market, potentially saving you money during periods of low energy prices.
- Prepayment Tariffs: These allow you to pay as you go but often come with higher rates. Only choose this if you need strict control over your spending.
Time-of-use tariffs like Economy 7 or Economy 10 offer lower rates during off-peak hours, which can save money if you’re able to shift energy usage to evenings or weekends.
4. Check Standing Charges
Energy bills consist of two parts: the unit rate (price per kWh) and the standing charge (a daily fixed cost). Providers with low unit rates may offset this with high standing charges. When comparing tariffs, make sure you consider both costs to get an accurate picture of your potential savings.
For example:
- Tariff A: Low standing charge but high unit rate.
- Tariff B: Higher standing charge but lower unit rate.
Calculate your expected monthly bill for each option based on your usage.
5. Consider Switching Providers Regularly
Loyalty doesn’t pay in the energy market. Many providers offer competitive rates for new customers but may move you to a more expensive standard tariff when your contract ends. To avoid overpaying:
- Watch for exit fees: Most fixed-rate tariffs charge exit fees if you leave early, but you can switch penalty-free within the last 49 days of your contract.
- Set reminders: Note when your current tariff ends.
- Switch annually: Use comparison sites to check for cheaper options before your contract expires.
6. Take Advantage of Government Schemes and Discounts
The UK government offers support to help households manage energy costs. Ensure you’re taking advantage of these programmes:
- Warm Home Discount Scheme: Eligible households receive a £150 discount on their winter energy bills.
- Priority Services Register: Provides additional support for vulnerable households.
Check Ofgem’s website for details on available schemes.
7. Monitor Wholesale Energy Prices
Energy prices fluctuate with the wholesale market. Keeping an eye on these trends can help you decide when to switch or lock in a fixed-rate deal. Some providers offer trackers or alerts to notify you when prices drop.
8. Consider Dual Fuel Discounts
Bundling your gas and electricity under a single provider often results in discounts. While it’s not always the cheapest option, it simplifies billing and can be convenient for many households. Use comparison sites to determine whether a dual fuel deal saves you money compared to separate providers.
9. Be Aware of Hidden Fees
When comparing tariffs, look out for potential hidden costs, such as:
- Exit fees: Charged if you leave a fixed contract early.
- Late payment fees: Some providers penalise late payments.
- Paper billing charges: Many providers charge extra if you opt for paper bills instead of online statements.
Always read the terms and conditions before committing to a new tariff.
10. Negotiate with Your Current Provider
If you’re happy with your current provider but find a cheaper deal elsewhere, it’s worth contacting them to negotiate. Many providers are willing to match or beat competitor rates to retain customers.
Conclusion
Finding the cheapest energy provider in the UK requires a bit of effort, but the savings can be significant. Start by understanding your energy usage, compare tariffs using trusted comparison sites, and don’t hesitate to switch providers regularly. By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to reducing your energy bills and keeping more money in your pocket.

Gary is the Operations Manager at Fairway Energy and a specialist in renewable energy and technology, with over 15 years’ experience. He has in-depth expertise in energy-efficient measures for residential properties and UK government-backed grant schemes and funding.