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It's very easy to change electricity, gas and dual-fuel tariff
with Free Price Compare

Free Price Compare can find the cheapest energy prices for your post code

Follow these steps to compare electricity and gas tariffs:

  1. Simply start by entering your home postcode
  2. Confirm the information we show about your current energy supplier and how much energy you use
  3. We will show you the cheapest energy tariff for your postcode
  4. Click on “Switch Now” on the plan that suits your needs
  5. We will take care of the rest, including all the paperwork.
  6. Sit back and relax. Your energy supply switched in minutes!

What's next?

Select an energy tariff that best suits your requirements and budget

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Since our inception, we have saved our energy customers over £12 million. Stats are correct as of 01/12/2023.

Free Energy Comparison

Free Energy Comparison

Our energy comparison service is free, with no membership or monthly fees, unlike other sites, ensuring you get the best prices.

Quick and Easy

Quick and Easy

You can get an energy quote within 1 minute and see how much you can save.

Easy to Understand

Easy to Understand

We make it easy for you to understand your energy quote to make sure you are getting the best energy deal.

 Compare More Energy Suppliers

Compare More Energy Suppliers

For your peace of mind, no one compares more energy suppliers than us which means you can get better energy tariff with us.

 Switch and Save

Switch and Save

Once you are happy with a quote, simply fill in final required details and we will do the rest for you.

Repeat and Save

Repeat and Save

Renew your energy comparison 49 days prior to your contract's end. We remind you, allowing you to choose your ideal gas and electricity supplier.

12 Questions you always wanted to know about switching energy

We have made the switching process simpler than ever. All we require is your post code. We will then use the latest technology to view your usage, current supplier and contract and ask you to confirm these details. Once you have confirmed, you will be presented with the tariffs from the different suppliers you can complete the switch online with. You then do not need to do anything until the supplier change has happened, and at that point, all you need to give is your current meter readings so that your final bill can be produced by your previous supplier. The switch should take you less than 4 minutes online.

Energy companies tend to give the best deals to new customers or those that have actively sought them out, and when these special rates come to an end you are put on their standard variable tariff, which is typically the most expensive type of plan and can be subject to price rises. The standard variable tariff is the suppliers default fuel and standing charge (the daily price they charge to supply your property), this can be significantly more than you were previously paying.

No, you will never be without gas or electric. The flow is continuous and the only change you will see is the amount that you are paying.

Yes, the technology we use looks at the usage given from the last 24 hours if you are using a smart meter or from your last meter reading if you do not have a smart meter. We will then show your usage in terms of KwH and the amount you pay every month.

No, the product is exactly the same it is only the name on the bill that changes.

Yes, you can speak to one of our switch advisors in our UK based call centre on 0203 475 7476 Monday – Friday 10am – 8pm

This is difficult to say now because of the volitility the market saw between September 2021 and early 2023, when the prices stabalised the energy companies still didnt open up tariffs to new customers so whilst we will show you the best tariffs available from the suppliers we work with we are not able to estimate a savings figure. We will always show you the savings figure based on your current usage.

The switch can take up to 5 weeks, you have 14 dayscooling off period to change your mind after you switch so nothing is done in this period, and then it can take between 1 and 3 weeks for the supplier to change.

You have 14 days from agreeing to switch to cancel the switch and you will not penalised.

If you are on a standard variable tariff then you are not bound by any contract and you will not be charged. If you are under contract, most suppliers will charge an early exit fee (typically £15 - £30 per fuel), this fee if you break your contract with them (you will not be penalised if you move house), however you can switch fee free in the last 49 days of your current contract.

You should treat your energy like any other renewable product in your home and therefore you should always switch 49 days before the end of your contract (typically annually, but you can get 24 or 36 month contracts).

Our prices are the same as the company’s website directly, although sometimes we do have exclusive price points because of the volume of switches on offer to the company and we offer more than 12 different suppliers in one place instead of inputting your details in 12 different websites.

Why are Energy Prices So High?

The recent surge in energy prices has left many consumers wondering why their bills have skyrocketed. Several factors contribute to the high energy prices in the UK:

  • Wholesale Gas Prices: Wholesale gas prices have experienced a significant increase, impacting the overall cost of energy. Market forces and global conflicts in oil-rich countries can cause fluctuations in gas prices, leading to higher costs for consumers.
  • Energy Price Cap: The energy price cap, introduced by Ofgem in 2019, limits the amount suppliers can charge for default gas and electricity tariffs. However, the cap is reviewed and updated regularly, and changes in wholesale energy prices can influence the cap level, resulting in higher prices for consumers.
  • Limited Supply of Fossil Fuels: Gas and electricity primarily rely on fossil fuels, which are in limited supply. Despite advancements in extraction technology, the scarcity of these resources can impact energy prices.
  • UK Energy Providers: While arguments exist that energy providers could keep prices low, Ofgem aims to ensure transparency and a competitive market to protect consumers' interests.

While these factors contribute to the high energy prices, consumers can regain control by comparing energy prices and switching to more affordable providers.

Understanding the Energy Price Guarantee

To protect consumers from excessive price rises, the Energy Price Guarantee sets a cap on the amount suppliers can charge for gas and electricity. he guarantee is reviewed regularly and provides a safeguard against sudden price hikes. Here's how it works:

  • The current Energy Price Guarantee, in effect until June 2023, restricts the annual cost for an average usage household to £2,500.
  • The guarantee is based on Typical Domestic Consumption Values (TDCVs), reflecting average energy usage for households in the UK.
  • Ofgem sets the price cap every three months, ensuring that consumers are protected from excessive price increases.
  • From October 2023, the TDCVs will be adjusted to reflect reduced energy usage, potentially resulting in a lower price cap.

While the Energy Price Guarantee offers some stability, consumers can still find better deals by comparing energy prices and switching to more cost-effective providers.

energy price guarantee

When will UK Consumers See Energy Prices Go Down?

The UK energy market is dynamic and subject to various factors that influence price changes. Cornwall Insight, an energy analyst, predicts that the next energy price cap, set to be announced in October 2023, will be lower than the current level. This indicates a potential reduction in energy prices for consumers. Here are the predicted energy price caps for the upcoming months:

From July 1 to September 30, 2023, the energy cost is £1,976, while from October 1 to December 31, 2023, it is £1,834. The estimated energy price cap for January 1 to March 31, 2024 is projected to be £1,931. Similarly, for April 1 to June 30, 2024, the projected energy price cap stands at £1,853. It is predicted that from July 1 to September 30, 2024, the energy price cap will be approximately £1,824. Finally, from October 1 to December 31, 2024, the anticipated energy price cap is around £1,863.

Please note that these figures are based on average household energy consumption and are subject to change. The key takeaway is that consumers can anticipate a potential decrease in energy prices, especially with the adjustment of TDCVs (Typical Domestic Consumption Values) to reflect reduced energy usage.

How to Compare Energy Prices Effectively in 2023

Comparing energy prices is essential for finding the best deals and saving money on your gas and electricity bills. By following these steps, you can navigate the energy market and make informed decisions:

1. Start with an Energy Comparison

Begin your energy comparison journey by using a reliable platform like Free Price Compare. Their user-friendly interface allows you to enter your postcode, current supplier, and energy usage details to generate a list of available deals in your area.

2. Consider Fixed and Variable Tariffs

When comparing energy prices, you'll come across fixed and variable tariffs. Fixed tariffs offer a set price for a specific duration, providing stability and protection against price hikes. Picking a fixed-price tariff means the rate you pay for your gas and electricity remain the same until the end of the fixed period. Variable tariffs can fluctuate with market conditions but may offer more flexibility. Consider your preferences and energy usage to determine which tariff suits you best.

3. Analyse Contract Terms and Additional Benefits

Look beyond the price when comparing energy deals. Consider contract terms, such as contract length and exit fees, to ensure they align with your needs. Additionally, explore any additional benefits offered by suppliers, such as renewable energy options or customer rewards programs.

4. Check Customer Reviews and Rating

Customer reviews and ratings can provide valuable insights into the quality of service offered by energy suppliers. Consider the experiences of other customers to gauge the reliability and customer satisfaction levels of different providers.

5. Switch with Ease

Once you've found a suitable energy deal, Free Price Compare can assist you in switching seamlessly. They handle the entire process, including contacting your current and new suppliers, ensuring a hassle-free transition.

Our Energy Experts comments:

In October 2023, a 7% reduction in Ofgem's Energy Price Cap has led to an annual cost of £1,834 for typical households energy bills. The Energy Price Guarantee, initially valid until 2024, is now unnecessary due to the lower cap. Individual savings depend on specific usage, but consistent consumption should result in cost reductions. The £1,834 cap has enabled energy suppliers to reintroduce fixed deals offering price certainty benefiting 14 million households. When considering options, utilise platforms like Free Price Compare for comprehensive details on unit rates, daily charges, and applicable exit fees.

Dual Fuel Energy Tariffs vs Single Fuel Tariffs

  • Dual fuel tariff– If you take out a gas and electricity contract from the same energy supplier under one contract then that would be classed as a dual fuel tariff contract. You’ll get one bill for your gas and electricity. Some suppliers may offer further discounts if you take out a dual fuel contract with them.
  • Single fuel tariff– It means, you are agreeing to two separate tariffs for your gas and electricity with the same or different supplier. You’ll get a separate bill for your gas and electricity during the length of your energy contract.

When switching, you can simply check if dual fuel tariff will be cheaper compared to single fuel by using the available filters on our table.


There are 2 different types of energy tariffs to consider when looking to switch your energy supply.

1 – Fixed rate energy tariff

If you agree to a fixed rate contract with a supplier, your gas and electricity prices will remain fixed for the duration of your contract. You can fix your energy from a 1 to 5-year contract with a supplier of your choice. Fixed term contract offerings will vary per supplier, it is more common to see contract lengths between 12 and 24 months.

It is important to remember that your unit rate and standing charges are fixed but your monthly bill can vary depending on your energy consumption. If you use more electricity and gas then you are likely to get higher bills.

A fixed term contract is ideal for those who want to keep track of their energy usage and spending habits. While you are in a contract, you are protected from any energy price rises which means wholesale energy price rises will not affect you during your contract.

Most energy suppliers will offer a fixed-term contract but these usually come with an exit fee. If you terminate your contract before your renewal window then your supplier will charge you a set fee which is usually agreed upon while taking out a contract. Exit fees can vary per supplier and the provider can charge up to £35 per fuel. Once your fixed-term contract has ended, your supplier will roll you over to a standard variable rate which means traditionally, you are paying a higher rate for both the daily charge and the unit rate compared to your contracted rate. By law, you can also switch your energy supplier 49 days prior to your current contract end date without being charged any exit fees, this is also known as the “renewal window”. But some energy providers will offer to pay your exit fees if you join them - it's worth checking.


2 - Variable rate energy tariff

Variable rate tariffs are usually a cheaper option to start with but it can be very expensive if the wholesale market prices go up. Your unit rate and standing charges are not fixed and therefore can vary depending on the wholesale energy market, meaning your price could go up or down.

If you have moved into a new property and have not agreed to an energy contract then you are going to be on a standard variable tariff with the previous occupier’s provider. Also, if your current energy contract has ended and you have failed to switch to a new contract with the same or a new supplier then you are going to be moved to a standard variable tariff.

The main advantage of having a standard variable tariff is that you are free to switch away from your supplier at any time without being charged an exit fee.

If you are on a standard variable rate contract, you are more likely to save hundreds of pounds by switching to a fixed term contract if you are going to be in your property for a year or more.

Green energy tariffs and suppliers

A green energy tariff means your electricity is generated from 100% renewable sources or from a mixture of renewable and non-renewable sources.

When you agree a green energy tariff, you are still going to get your electricity supply from the National Grid and it will be delivered to your meter the same way as normal electricity.

25% of the UK’s electricity is generated by renewable sources, such as solar, wind and the sea, the other 75% is still generated by nuclear power plants and fossil fuels.

  • Green Gas – It is really expensive and difficult to generate green gas from renewables; however, some small suppliers do offer some sort of green gas supply. For example, Good Energy supply 6% of its gas from renewable sources which is produced from decaying plants, animals and foods.
  • Green Energy Suppliers – There are several green energy suppliers in the market that offer renewable energy to consumers. These suppliers are committed to reducing their carbon footprint and promoting sustainable energy solutions. One popular green energy supplier is Ecotricity. They provide 100% renewable electricity, sourced from wind turbines and solar panels across the UK. By choosing Ecotricity, customers can support the growth of renewable energy and contribute to a greener future.
green energy tariff

Domestic Energy Meter Types

energy meter
  • Standard credit meters – Credit meters are the traditional standard electricity and gas meters that most of the UK households still use. Standard credit meters need to be read by the supplier or yourself in order to get the correct energy bills. Your monthly energy bills will be estimated and adjusted accordingly when a meter reading is provided to your supplier.
  • Smart meters – A new generation meter for your gas and electricity supply which are being rolled out by individual energy suppliers across the UK. These can record and report usages to your current supplier. Smart meters have a function to show you how much energy you are using in pounds and in kWh in real time.
  • The government has recently engaged in discussions with suppliers and other industry stakeholders regarding its plan for 2024 and 2025. As a result of these consultations, the government has set targets for suppliers to install smart meters in a minimum of 74.5% of residential properties and approximately 69% of small businesses by the conclusion of 2025.
  • Prepayment meters - Prepayment meters are also known as Pay As You Go meters. Most commonly found in rental properties and used by tenants. You have to top up an amount to your meter before using any energy, i.e. paying for your energy in advance. You can top up your prepayment meter by using a Key or card at your local shop or by using energy supplier mobile app. If your top up runs out, your energy will be cut off too.

What are prepayment energy tariffs?

Switching energy providers can save you money on your bills. One type of energy plan is a prepayment tariff where you pay before using gas and electricity, like adding credit to a mobile phone. To add credit, you can use a key, card, or smart meter and top up at a shop with PayPoint or Payzone. You may also top up online or via an app if you have a smart meter. Paying by direct debit usually saves money.

By using energy, you pay for your gas and electricity as you use it. When credit runs low, top-up is needed to keep the supply on. If you have a smart meter, check your usage and credit in real-time. For traditional meters, check the meter to see credit level. Emergency credit is offered by most suppliers if you run out of credit, helping to avoid losing power. Prepayment tariffs can be more expensive per energy unit than other tariffs. If you don't top up the meter, charges or disconnection might occur. This tariff helps manage budgets and past-due energy bills.

If you're on a prepayment meter, don't worry. You can still switch suppliers and save money. Check different tariffs to find the one that suits you best.

What are Economy 7 Tariffs?

Are you aware of Economy 7 tariffs? These are designed to save money by providing cheaper electricity rates during specific off-peak hours. The seven-hour period at night has a lower rate for electricity use. This period is typically set between 10 pm and 8:30 am, but it can vary depending on your location and energy supplier. Electricity used outside of these hours is charged at a higher rate compared to the off-peak period.

If you want to use an Economy 7 tariff, you need a special electricity meter. This meter, known as an MPAN number, can track your electricity usage during peak and off-peak hours. It's helpful during the switching process as it allows your supplier and address to be correctly identified. This tariff is good for people who use more electricity at night. If you have storage heaters or an electric car that you charge overnight, this tariff will be helpful for you. Also, if you use appliances like washing machines and dishwashers during off-peak hours, this tariff will save you money. To save money on this tariff, use more electricity during the cheaper night-time hours.

Compare Energy Prices to Save Money: Economy 7 has cheaper night rates but higher day rates. To decide if it's worth switching, compare the savings to daytime costs. Be mindful of peak energy usage to avoid high bills.

What are Economy 7 Tariffs

How to reduce your monthly energy bills?

Are you tired of paying high energy bills in the UK? Don't worry, reducing them is easy. You just need to change how you use energy and ensure you're on the right tariff. To help you save money, here are some practical steps you can follow.

  1. Switch to a Cheaper Energy Tariff: By comparing energy prices regularly, you can save money by switching to a cheaper provider or tariff. You can use websites like Free Price Compare to find the best deals.
  2. Use Energy-Efficient Appliances: Want to save money on your energy bills? Use less electricity by upgrading to energy-efficient appliances. Check for the Energy Saving Trust Recommended label or high energy efficiency ratings when buying appliances.
  3. Insulate Your Home: Having proper insulation in your home can lead to a significant decrease in heating expenses. Make sure to insulate not only your loft, but also your walls and floors. Additionally, it may be beneficial to consider installing double-glazed windows.
  4. Be Smart About Heating: To save money, it is advisable to only heat the rooms that are in use and adjust your thermostat to a lower temperature. Even a one-degree reduction can result in significant savings.
  5. Use Energy-Efficient Light Bulbs: Switching to LED bulbs is a great way to reduce energy consumption and enjoy longer-lasting lighting compared to traditional bulbs.
  6. Unplug Devices Not in Use: To conserve energy, make sure to switch off appliances and electronics when they are not being used and avoid leaving them in standby mode, as this still results in energy consumption.
  7. Draught-Proof Your Home: To decrease your heating bills and retain heat indoors, it is important to seal any gaps present around doors and windows.
  8. Use a Smart Meter: Smart meters enable you to track your energy consumption in real-time, enabling you to pinpoint areas where you can reduce usage.
  9. Energy-Efficient Water Usage: Use less hot water by taking shorter showers and fixing any leaks. Consider a water-efficient showerhead.
  10. Consider Renewable Energy Sources: Consider investing in renewable energy options such as solar panels, if feasible. This choice can help decrease your dependency on the power grid and result in long-term cost savings by reducing your bills.
  11. Educate Family Members: It is important to ensure that all members of your household are knowledgeable about energy conservation. Even small adjustments in behaviour can have a significant impact.
  12. Government Schemes: Investigate the various government schemes and grants that are accessible for making energy-saving improvements to your home.

Frequently Asked Questions

The UK government imposes an energy price cap to restrict the maximum rate at which energy suppliers can bill you for gas and electricity. The purpose of the cap is to safeguard consumers from unexpected and excessively high prices.

The price cap in the UK is set by Ofgem, the energy regulator. Ofgem conducts a review every six months to ensure that it reflects any changes that have occurred in the market.

It was implemented in January 2019 with the aim of assisting customers on default tariffs, such as standard variable tariffs, to avoid overpaying.

Indeed, the cap has the potential to increase or decrease, contingent upon the expenses incurred in providing electricity and gas. These expenses are susceptible to fluctuations in global energy prices, network charges, and policy costs.

The amount you are charged for your bill is determined by the amount of energy you consume. The price per unit of energy is restricted by a cap, but there is no limit on the total amount of the bill. If your energy consumption increases, you will still have to pay a higher amount.

This applies to individuals who are on default tariffs, which includes standard variable tariffs. However, if you have a fixed-term energy agreement, a prepayment meter, or a green energy arrangement, this may not be applicable to you.

Absolutely. Even with the cap, it is frequently feasible to discover more affordable offers by comparing different energy suppliers. It is consistently advisable to explore your options.

Ofgem will move you to a new supplier. Your tariff might change, but you'll still be protected by the price cap.

No, the caps can differ. Various regions may have different limits depending on the expenses associated with providing energy in those areas.

The future of the cap depends on many factors like government policy and energy market changes. It's a topic that's always evolving.

By switching your current energy tariffs, you could save hundreds of pounds by moving to a new tariff offering better value for money through Free Price Compare. We compare energy prices and available energy tariffs from the UK energy suppliers to find better energy deals for you. You might also switch away from your current supplier if you are not happy with their customer service or if you are looking for a new supplier for better customer service. Switching to a new energy supplier or changing tariff is straightforward and you can switch online, or by phone.

We are making it easier than ever to compare energy prices and switch your provider or tariff, utilising the latest technology we only require your post code and we will look up all of the other information for you, giving you accurate usage figures. If you are on a smart meter, this will be up until the midnight the day before you search, if you are not on a smart meter we will view the latest meter reading given.

For a reliable and accurate quote, and to confirm the information we will show you, you should know:

  • Current energy supplier name
  • Current energy tariff
  • Current Energy usages in kWH or Monthly spend.

Usually, the easiest way to compare your energy prices in under 1 minute is by using Free Price Compare. Before the rapid energy price increases in 2021, there was, according to Ofgem figures, 70 active energy suppliers, this has now reduced to around a dozen; Free Price Compare works with the largest suppliers in the industry and one search will generate results from the supplier we work with which means it’s very easy to compare energy prices with Free Price Compare compared to getting a quote with each energy supplier individually.

Once you have made an application to switch away from your current supplier, Free Price Compare will begin the process and carry out the communication with your new supplier on your behalf, your new supplier will communicate with your existing supplier and deal with the energy switch guarantee process. All you will be asked for is to provide a meter reading that will close down your previous account and open your new one. Usually, the energy switch can take up to 30 days to complete. Switching energy is hassle-free with Free Price Compare.

No, your electricity and gas supply will remain as it is and you will never know the exact moment your supplier has changed. The only change you will notice will be your bill as they will come from new energy supplier.

  1. 1 Standard variable energy tariffs – the energy prices vary based on the wholesale energy price meaning your bill could go up or down throughout your supply.
  2. 2 Fixed rate energy tariffs - this is best for your peace of mind. Your energy prices will be fixed for a period you choose meaning your unit rate and standing charge will not change for the duration of the contract. Usually, you can get a contract from 12 months to 60 months contract.
  3. 3 Green energy tariffs – green energy tariffs can be fixed or variable tariffs. Green energy means energy generated by using renewable sources such as solar plants and wind farms.

A dual fuel energy tariff means you get gas and electricity supply from one supplier and you’ll also get one energy bill too. Most energy suppliers offer discounts if you switch to a dual energy tariff. However, you can switch gas and electricity individually if you prefer different suppliers and separate bills. The best thing to do is run a comparison to see what's available and assessing which deals best meet your needs.

Switching your gas and electricity supply is really easy. All you need to do is answer a few questions regarding your current energy supply then choose a tariff and supplier you would like to switch to.

Once the switch application has been completed the rest of the paperwork is carried out by your new supplier.

It is ideal to pay any outstanding debts before the switch date. Otherwise, your current supplier can stop your switch. If your debt is less than £200 then your energy switch should progress as usual and the money you owe to the previous supplier will be taken on the final bill unless you have agreed to a payment plan with them.

If you are happy with your supplier and prices then it is possible that you can take your current energy deal with you – Just contact your supplier and let them know your new address.

When you are moving home you should take the following actions:

  • Take a final meter reading on the day you are moving out
  • Take a meter reading the day you move into the new property
  • Contact the existing supplier and check what tariffs you are on at the new property. Usually, you will be on standard tariffs by default and they are one of the most expansive tariffs so it is recommended that you switch supplier or the tariff.

Yes, you can switch if you are directly paying your energy bills to a supplier. If you are paying your landlord for your energy bills then they will need to do the switch.

It depends on the supplier you are switching your energy to, but government incentives suggest that all suppliers must aim to install smart meters by 2025 in England, Wales and Scotland.

You can get a smart meter if your supplier offers a smart meter installation or you can wait until they contact you regarding smart meter installation.

Yes, you can switch FITs (feed-in-tariffs), we recommend that you check with the supplier if they are happy to pay for your feed in tariff.

- FIT’s – means you’ll get paid for generating energy for you and selling excess energy to the national grid.

Energy prices can change depending on supply and demand in the wholesale energy market. If you are on a variable tariff, your bills will go up and down with the fluctuations in the energy market. If you don't want your energy prices to be affected by these changes, then your ideal tariff would be a fixed-rate energy tariff. It is important to keep up to date with energy market news to help you make informed decisions about whether to switch or stick with your current tariff.

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  • Switching energy suppliers only takes 4 minutes and you can save up to £318* off your energy bill.
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