How To Compare Energy Prices: A Guide For Consumers

Before you compare energy prices, it’s a good idea to get an understanding of the energy market and why it’s so advantageous to keep switching suppliers. Here, we’ll look at everything you need to know to compare energy prices effectively.

Who is the cheapest energy supplier?

Energy prices are always changing with new tariffs and rates being offered all the time. The cost of your energy depends on a number of factors, including:

1. Where you live
2. How much energy you use
3. Your tariff
4. Your energy choices

However, some suppliers do tend to be cheaper than others. Based on the average use statistics in the UK for a medium user in the south, as supplied by the regulator Ofgem, the cheapest suppliers are as follows:

Which energy supplier is the best?

Is cheaper better than greener? Is a better customer service more important to you than no exit fees? It’s hard to give a definitive answer to this question about which supplier is best. It depends on your own individual requirements and expectations. However, there are certain ways to compare other people’s and independent body’s experiences. One of the main ones is to look at the Which? annual survey of the major energy suppliers. This rates suppliers on an annual basis, based on the reviews and experiences of actual customers. While this is not a definitive list of the best suppliers, it is a useful guide to see who is performing well. Ratings metrics including customer service, bill accuracy, digital tools and value for money, with several thousand customers being asked for their opinions about suppliers in each category.

How much can I save by switching energy suppliers?

On average in the UK, around 60% of homes could be paying around £300 more than they need to for their energy each year. That’s because many of these are simply sitting on standard variable energy tariffs, the most expensive of all tariff options. By switching in in a matter of minutes, it might be possible to save hundreds of pounds.

guarantee your energy safety?

FAQ

Where do energy price comparison figures come from?

Energy price comparison figures are based on your energy consumption for the year. If you are unable to provide this information, however, price comparison services can still provide quotes based on estimates. The figures from these come from national average consumption for low, medium and high energy consumers. Figures are as follows:

• Low- 1,800 kWh electricity, 8,000 kWh gas
• Medium- 2,900 kWh electricity, 12,000 kWh gas
• High- 4,300 kWh electricity, 17,000 kWh gas

Can I compare gas and electricity separately?

Yes, you can and should. While dual rate tariffs offer a discount for consumers, they aren’t necessarily always the cheapest deals on the market. This is why we include both dual and single fuel tariffs when comparing energy prices on your behalf.

What information do I need to compare energy prices?

You will need to know your existing tariff information and average monthly bill amount, as well as how many kWh you use each month. You will also need your current address.

What is the difference between fixed and variable-rate tariffs?

A variable-rate tariff rises and falls in line with the wholesale cost of energy. However, your energy company has to give you 30 days’ notice if your energy costs are going to change. A fixed-rate tariff locks your gas and electricity prices in place for a set period of time (usually 12 or 24 months). When these tariffs expire, your supplier will usually switch you to a variable-rate default tariff unless you arrange otherwise. You can leave a variable-rate tariff at any time, but some fixed-rate tariffs have an early exit fee if you attempt to switch before the contract is complete. You can, however, switch up to 49 days before your contract’s expiry date without incurring fees.

Will my gas and electricity be interrupted if I switch?

Absolutely not. The transition between suppliers will be seamless, and you will receive a final bill from your previous supplier when the new supplier takes over. In fact, if your switch takes more than 15 days, you will be entitled to £30 in credit as compensation.