Dual Fuel vs Single Fuel Tariffs Under the Energy Price Cap

March 7th, 2025
Dual Fuel vs Single Fuel Tariffs Under the Energy Price Cap

Many homes in the UK pick dual fuel tariffs. This means they get gas and electricity from the same energy supplier. Some people choose single fuel tariffs, getting gas and electricity from different energy companies. The energy price cap changes every three months. Because of this, those on both dual fuel and single fuel tariffs often wonder which choice is cheaper and how the price cap will affect them.

How the Energy Price Cap Affects Dual-Fuel & Single-Fuel Tariffs

The energy price cap, which is decided by Ofgem, restricts the rates and charges that energy supplierscan apply per kilowatt hour (kWh) to customers with a standard variable tariff (SVT). This price cap does not mean your total bill is fixed. Instead, the more energy you use, the higher your bill will be.

Dual Fuel vs Single Fuel: Key Differences

Feature Dual Fuel Tariff Single Fuel Tariff
What it Includes Both gas and electricity from one supplier Gas and electricity from separate suppliers
Energy Price Cap Impact Both fuels capped under a standard variable rate Each fuel is subject to the price cap separately
Convenience One energy bill, one point of contact for customer service Two suppliers, which may require separate meter readings
Potential Savings Some dual fuel tariffs offer a small discount Single fuel tariffs may offer better rates when switching
Flexibility Often includes exit fees for switching Easier to switch one fuel at a time

Key Takeaways: The price cap is for both dual fuel and single fuel tariffs. However, the cheapest choice varies based on your supplier and what type of contract you have.

Is Dual Fuel Cheaper Than Single Fuel Under the Energy Price Cap?

The cost of using dual fuel compared to single fuel can vary. It depends on several things. These include the current price cap, wholesale energy prices, and if a supplier gives a discount for using dual fuel.

  • Dual fuel tariffs are simple. You have one customer service point and one bill.
  • Single fuel tariffs might give you better rates if you switch electricity and gasby themselves.
  • Customers using dual fuel could still pay higher standing charges. This can depend on the supplier.

Right now, some fixed-rate single fuel tariffs cost less than dual fuel standard variable tariffs. This is happening because price cap levels are going up.

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How the Energy Price Cap Affects Dual Fuel Tariff Pricing

The energy price cap impacts the unit rates and standing charges for customers who use either single fuel or dual fuel.

  • Customers with dual fuel on a standard variable tariffwill notice changes in their gas and electricity costs with the next price cap.
  • Single fuel customers on a standard variable tariff will feel price cap changes for each supplier separately.
  • Those with fixed tariff contracts will not feel the effects of the cap until their contract ends.

Customers should check out different suppliers before the next price cap announcement. This way, they can find the best tariff.

Fixed vs Variable Tariffs: Which is Best for Dual Fuel Customers?

Tariff Type Pros Cons
Standard Variable Tariff (SVT) Protected by the energy price cap Prices can rise every three months
Fixed Tariff Locks in unit rates for a set period Exit fees apply if you switch early
  • If the price cap is likely to go up, choosing a dual fuel tariff can offer peace of mind.
  • If energy prices drop, a standard variable rate might be less expensive.

Customers should think about the risks of price increases compared to the security of a fixed tariff.

Standing Charges: Do Dual Fuel Customers Pay More?

The standing charge is a daily cost that everyone has to pay, no matter how much energy they use.

  • The standing charges change based on the region. Some dual fuel customers pay more than those using a single fuel.
  • People with prepayment meters usually pay higher standing charges compared to those who pay by direct debit.
  • A few energy companieshave higher standing charges for dual fuel plans than for separate gas and electricity accounts.

The price cap limits the standing charges. However, customers should compare different suppliers to get the best rates.

Standing Charges: Do Dual Fuel Customers Pay More

Is It Worth Switching from Dual Fuel to Single Fuel?

  • Using only one type of fuel could be a better choice if there are cheaper electricity or gas-only rates.
  • Dual fuel plans are simpler to handle, but they might not always save you money.
  • Customers should look at different suppliers and check for exit fees before making a switch.

As energy costs keep changing, it might be a good idea to see if changing to different suppliers could help you save some money.

How Wholesale Energy Costs Affect Dual Fuel vs Single Fuel Tariffs with the Energy Price Cap

The wholesale cost of energy plays a big role in setting the energy price cap. It also influences how energy suppliers price their dual fuel and single fuel tariffs. Since gas and electricity are sold at different prices in the wholesale market, changes in these prices affect unit rates, standing charges, and overall bills in different ways for dual fuel and single fuel customers.

How Wholesale Prices Impact Dual Fuel vs Single Fuel Under the Energy Price Cap

Factor Impact on Dual Fuel Customers Impact on Single Fuel Customers
Wholesale Electricity Prices Affects the electricity portion of dual fuel tariffs, increasing unit rates and daily standing charges Customers can switch electricity suppliers separately if wholesale electricity costs rise
Wholesale Gas Prices Directly impacts dual fuel contracts, affecting both electricity and gas prices under the energy price cap Customers can compare gas suppliers independently and avoid price spikes
Energy Price Cap Adjustments If wholesale costs increase, the next price cap level will reflect higher energy bills Single fuel users may have an advantage if one fuel price drops while the other rises
Supplier Pricing Strategies Some energy companies bundle gas & electricity together, which may result in less flexibility for price changes Customers can choose different tariffs for gas and electricity to adapt to price movements
Fixed vs Variable Tariffs Dual fuel fixed tariffs may protect customers from price cap changes, but may include exit fees Single fuel fixed tariffs may offer better deals for either gas or electricity separately

Key Takeaways:

  • The energy price cap looks at wholesale costs. So, if wholesale gas and electricity prices go up, the next cap will go up too.
  • Dual fuel customers see changes in the price cap for both energy types. Single fuel customers can switch each tariff on its own.
  • Fixed tariffs can help protect against rising wholesale prices. In contrast, standard variable tariffs (SVTs) change every three months based on the price cap level.
  • Government support, like the Warm Home Discount and Winter Fuel Payment, can help with rising wholesale energy costs. Still, standing charges might also go up.

The energy price cap changes based on the costs of wholesale energy. This means that following predictions about the price cap can help people choose the best time to switch to a dual fuel or single fuel plan.

How to Compare Dual Fuel and Single Fuel Tariffs

  • Check the current energy price cap to see any changes in prices.
  • Use a smart meter to monitor your energy use and discover the best dual fuel or single fuel plans.
  • Review standing charges, unit rates, and exit fees.
  • Regularly compare energy suppliers to get the best deal.

Now, some single fuel tariffs cost less than dual fuel deals. This means it’s really important to compare different suppliers.

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Should You Choose Dual Fuel or Single Fuel With Energy Price Cap?

  • Dual fuel tariffs are easy to use, but single fuel tariffs might save you more money.
  • The energy price cap impacts both types of tariffs, but fixed tariff deals can give you more stable costs.
  • Standing charges might be higher for dual fuel customers, so it’s important to compare the total bill costs.
  • Choosing different suppliers may be cheaper now than staying with a dual fuel tariff.

The right choice depends on energy market trends, standing charges, and what price cap may happen. You should compare tariffs often to find the best deal!

FAQs About the Energy Price Cap & Dual Fuel Tariffs

Is dual fuel always cheaper under the energy price cap?

Not all the time. Some single fuel tariffs can be cheaper. This differs based on the supplier and energy prices.

Can I switch from dual fuel to single fuel if I’m on a standard variable tariff?

Yes, but you need to check exit fees. Make sure to compare new prices before you switch.

Does the energy price cap apply separately to gas and electricity?

Yes, the price cap sets limits for each fuel separately, even if you are on a dual fuel tariff.

Should I fix my dual fuel tariff before the next price cap change?

If people think future price cap levels will go up, a fixed tariff can help give them peace of mind.

What is the best way to save money on a dual fuel tariff?

  • Look for energy suppliers that offer the best rates.
  • Think about switching to different single fuel tariffs if they save you money.
  • Use a smart meter to help you monitor and lower your energy use.

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