Compare Energy Deals – Find the Best Tariff for Your Home

June 13th, 2025
Compare Energy Deals – Find the Best Tariff for Your Home

Why Comparing Energy Deals Is Important in 2025

With changes in the energy market and higher energy prices, UK households need to compare energy deals more than ever. If you are moving to a new home or looking over your yearly energy bills, it’s a good idea to check your options. You may also want to get a better deal before the price cap changes in July. Knowing what is out there is the first step to saving money.

The average UK household spends more than £1,600 every year on energy. But there are a lot of energy suppliers and different energy tariffs in the UK. The gap between a bad deal and a good deal can be huge. It could save you or cost you hundreds of pounds.

Step 1: Know Your Current Usage and Tariff Type

Before comparing, gather some details:

  • You will need to give your latest meter reading.
  • You have to know your yearly use in kWh. You can find this on your bill.
  • The company will ask if you are on a prepayment meter, a smart meter, or if you use a regular one.
  • You need to tell them what kind of tariff you have. It might be fixed, variable tariffs, or a normal plan.
  • Give your postcode and new address if you have moved recently.

Knowing how much energy or how much electricity you use is key. It can help you get the right quotes from energy companies and comparison tools. This way, you will be sure that the price you get is fair for what you use.

Step 2: Understand Different Types of Energy Tariffs

Fixed Rate Tariffs

  • Lock in your unit price for your energy for either 12, 18, or 24 months.
  • You get to stay safe from price jumps during this time.
  • If you decide to switch early, there can be exit fees.

Variable Tariffs

  • The energy price cap means prices can go up or down.
  • These plans are usually more flexible. There’s no exit fee most of the time.

Prepayment Tariffs

  • You pay as you go with a top-up card or by using an app.
  • Many landlords or tenants use this.
  • A prepayment meter price cap set by Ofgem protects you.

Dual Fuel Tariffs

  • Gas and electricity come together in one plan.
  • This option is often cheaper than if you get two plans on their own.

Specialised Tariffs

  • For homes that have an electric vehicle, or for those where renewable energy is important

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Step 3: Use an Ofgem-Approved Comparison Tool for Energy Price Comparison

To get good results and make sure you change energy suppliers safely, use a price comparison tool that is checked and approved by Ofgem. These tools help you do an energy price comparison that is right for you, based on what you use and the kind of tariff you want.

  • Filter the results by tariff type and the energy supplier.
  • Choose to include or leave out exit fees.
  • See the standing charges and the unit rates.
  • Compare deals based on your actual use.
  • Find better energy deal choices near you, including in Northern Ireland if that fits your need.
Tool Feature Benefit
Postcode Entry Tailors deals to your home
Smart Meter Integration Live usage helps find exact-fit tariffs
Cashback/Incentives Some tariffs include switching bonuses

Step 4: Review the Price Cap and Market Timing

The energy price cap is set by Ofgem. It changes every three months. This can have a big effect on variable tariffs. A lot of people try to get a better energy deal just before a rise in the price cap.

Key Dates:

  • April & July: It is in these months that price cap updates usually come out.
  • Be sure to compare deals right before july, so you can lock in your savings.
Month Cap Estimate (Typical Use)
April 2025 £1,690
July 2025 £1,750 (projected)

What’s the Best Way to Compare Energy Deals?

The best way to look at energy deals is to check the price, type of tariff, and how well each deal fits your way of living. You should think about if a fixed tariff or variable tariff will work better for you. Ask yourself if you want your energy to come from renewable energy. It is also good to look for features like rates for EVs or for homes that can use a smart meter. This will help you find a deal that is right for you.

Step 5: Consider Long-Term Fit, Not Just Price

Ask Yourself:

  • Does it fit with the electric vehicle schedule you have?
  • Do you want to help with renewable energy?
  • Are you thinking about moving again soon?
  • Do you want a stable fixed rate?

Switching only because of price may not always give you what you want. You should check if the new energy supplier is right for your home. Make sure it fits your household’s needs and values.

Consider Long-Term Fit, Not Just Price for Energy

Step 6: How to Switch

Once you’ve picked a deal:

  • Check the details with your old energy supplier, including any exit fees they may have.
  • Give your most recent meter reading.
  • Wait until you get a confirmation from your new energy supplier.

The switch will take about 5 to 10 working days. You will not have any disruption in your supply while this is going on.

Correct as of 09 June 2025

FAQs About Comparing Energy Deals

What is the energy price cap?

It is the highest price for each unit that suppliers can ask for under some tariffs. Ofgem sets this rate, and it impacts most standard and variable tariffs.

Can I switch if I’m on a prepayment meter?

Yes, there are many comparison tools that have prepayment options. You can also talk to your supplier if you want to switch to a credit meter.

What if I’m moving to a new address?

You need to look at deals for your new postcode. A lot of suppliers let you set up in advance. This way, your energy will be ready when you move.

Are all tariffs available in Northern Ireland?

No. The energy market in Northern Ireland is separate from others. But some suppliers and websites to compare prices do cover this area.

How often can I switch?

There is no limit to how often you can switch. You just need to check if there are any exit fees when you are in a fixed term. A lot of people change their deals every year to get the best price.

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