In the UK, energy prices can go up or down at different times
of the year. This is because the energy market keeps changing. It can also be because of supply and demand,
the weather, and new rules from the government. If you choose the right time to switch your energy provider,
considering your energy usage, you can save money. You could get a better deal, stop yourself from paying
high energy costs, and lock in a good rate before energy prices change.
Seasonal Trends in Energy Prices
Month
Typical Trend
Switching Tip
January
High demand due to winter heating
Check deals post-Christmas
April
Ofgem price cap review
Great time to assess your tariff
July
Market calm, less demand
Ideal for switching before autumn rises
October
Another price cap review
Last chance to secure a fixed deal
By looking at the price cap in April, July, or October, you can find out when the energy price cap will
change. This helps you make a move before the price cap goes up and changes your bill.
Key Triggers for Reviewing Your Tariff
When Your Current Deal Ends
If you are on a fixed tariff, you need to know when your contract will end. It is a good move to switch at
least 30 days before this date. This way, you can avoid exit fees and not end up on a standard variable
tariff.
After a Price Cap Announcement
The energy price cap goes up or down every three
months. When you find out what the new price cap is, it is a good moment to look at your choices. You can
compare all that is out there and think if you want to change your energy supplier. This may help you avoid
higher bills. If you use this time well, you may get a good deal and save some money on your next energy
plan.
If You Move House
A new home gives you a fresh start. It is also a good time to check if your current supplier
has the best price for you. You can use your new postcode and your planned
kWh use to compare rates.
Significant Life Changes
If you want to get a smart meter or start driving an electric
vehicle, you may have to change the way you pay for your energy.
If you want to be a landlord and handle more than one building, you may need to see
your tariff in a different way.
When you go from a prepayment meter to paying for your power with a credit account,
you may need to look at other tariff options.
All of these things may lead to a change in your tariff for power.
Check if you're paying too much.
Compare your current tariff with the cheapest energy deals available in your area – it only takes a few minutes.
Fixed vs Variable:
Choosing the Right Time-Based Deal
Type
Best Time to Choose
Why
Fixed Tariff
During stable market (e.g. summer)
Locks in rates when prices are steady
Variable Tariff
When price caps are falling
Can benefit from dropping wholesale prices
If you are not sure, you can look at energy prices when the market is calm. Times like
the summer are good for this. It can help you feel less unsure.
How to Compare Energy Prices
Effectively
Go to a trusted energy comparison site. You can use Free Price Compare for this.
Have your meter readings or smart meter data ready with you.
Know who your energy supplier is, what your tariff is called, and what payment method you use.
Type in your postcode and tell them about your home.
Filter what you want by:
Dual fuel or electricity/gas only,
Tariff type, like fixed, variable, or prepayment tariffs,
Features such as renewable sources or cashback.
Look at all the deals, side by side, to see which one is good for you.
Make sure to check if the electricity deals work with smart meters. You should also see if they have EV
tariffs. Some electricity deals are good for people who use a lot of energy, while others are better
if you do not use much. Think about how much you use and choose the one that fits you best.
Look for energy price comparison tools that use your real use. These tools can help you see your potential
savings. They also help you find a new supplier that fits your habits better.
What About Exit Fees?
Many suppliers want you to pay exit fees if you leave before your contract ends. But if you are in the last
49 days of your contract, Ofgem says you can switch and not have to pay a penalty. It is a
good idea to check the rules and terms first before you make the switch.
Correct as of 09 June 2025
FAQs About the Best
Time to Compare Energy Prices
When is
the best time of year to switch energy provider?
April, July, and October be good times because the price cap often changes then. The way people
use energy also changes in these months.
Should I wait
for prices to fall before switching?
Not always. If you find a good fixed rate tariff, it can be a good idea to lock it in early.
There are comparison sites that help you see trends. You can use them to check if now is a good
time to do that.
Can I switch energy
suppliers in winter?
Yes, but the rates can be higher. So it is good to look at other offers and compare these. You
may find a deal that is better than what you have right now.
Is summer a
good time to get a better energy deal?
Yes. In the summer, people often use less energy. This means energy bills can go down. There are
also more good deals to get at this time, and you will not see as many big changes in your
energy bills.
How often should I
compare energy prices?
You should look at your deal at least one time each year. You need to also check it when your
current deal is about to finish. Check it again during the price cap months. This is the best
way to know what is going on with prices.
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