Compare Prepayment Tariffs

Pay-as-you-go energy made simple – compare UK prepayment suppliers and find the best top-up deals

Thinking about switching your prepayment energy supplier?

Or compare business energy

• Look at pay-as-you-go electricity and gas plans.
• Discover how to add credit online, through an app, or in stores.
• Save money on daily fees and the cost per unit.
• Check offers from trusted prepayment companies like EDF, British Gas, and E.ON Next.

Want to compare energy prices across all meter types? We’ve got you covered — from prepayment to direct debit deals.

Since 2013, more than 514,000 UK homes have used Free Price Compare to check energy costs.

What is a prepayment meter?

A prepayment meter for energy, known as a PAYG or pay-as-you-go meter, allows you to pay for gas and electricity before you use it. You can add money to it using a key, card, electricity key, app, or an online portal. This process is like a mobile pay-as-you-go system.

Prepayment meters are often used in:

• Rented homes
• Places where people want to manage their budget
• Families with past energy bills

You only use what you have paid for. There are no surprise bills.

• You just pay for the energy you use.
• This helps you avoid surprise bills or direct debits.
• It’s easy to keep an eye on and control your spending.
• You can top up in shops, online, or using the app.
• This is perfect for budgeting and short-term stays.

You will need a suitable electricity meter or gas meter based on your needs. Most prepayment systems use a simple key meter or a gas card that you can recharge at your nearby store.

Smart Prepayment Meters

Pros and Cons of Prepayment Meters

Prepayment meters can help you manage your spending and use energy for a short time. However, they might not be the least expensive choice. It’s a good idea to compare tariffs. This way, you can ensure you’re not paying more than you need to.

While prepayment works well for budgeting, it’s always smart to compare energy prices and see if another tariff could save you more.

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.

Compare cheapest tariffs

Which UK Energy Suppliers Offer Prepayment Tariffs?

Not all energy suppliers provide prepayment tariffs. Prices can change based on where you live and how much energy you use. Here is a list of some of the main suppliers that currently offer prepayment meter deals. This includes both key/card and smart prepayment options.

Compare Prepayment Energy Suppliers

How to Switch Prepayment Energy Suppliers

Switching to a new prepayment energy tariff is simpler than you expect. You could begin saving money in just a few days. It doesn’t matter if you have a traditional key/card meter or a smart prepay credit meter. The process is easy.

When you compare energy prices, we show you only the prepayment tariffs available in your area — so you get the best match for your top-up habits and usage.

Here’s how it works:

Step-by-Step Guide (Styled as a numbered list):

1. Enter your postcode
   We’ll show you the prepayment tariffs that are in your area.
2. Compare suppliers and prices
   See how much you could save based on how you top-up and your meter type.
3. Choose the right deal for you
   Pick the supplier that offers the easiest top-up options or the best rates.
4. Apply online – no paperwork needed
   We’ll take care of the switch with your new supplier. You don’t need to contact your old one.
5. Start topping up with your new supplier
   You’ll get your new top-up card or key in the mail, or your smart meter will update automatically.

There is no interruption to your energy supply when you switch, and there are no switching fees. If you use a smart prepayment meter, the switch is usually quicker and done completely online. You don’t need to reach out to your current supplier — we’ll handle the switch for you, making it fast and easy.

More About Energy Switching

Still deciding if a prepayment meter is right for you? These quick reads can help you make an informed switch:

3 Key Tips to Saving Money on your Electricity Bill

What are the Pros and Cons of Prepayment Meters?

How to Find the Cheapest Fixed Rate Electricity Tariff

Essential Tips for Fixed Price Tariff Switching

Correct as of 23 April 2025

FAQs About Prepayment Meters

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