EDF Energy Standing Charge: Everything You Need to Know

May 8th, 2025
EDF Energy Standing Charge: Everything You Need to Know

Standing charges are an important part of an energy bill. They affect both gas bills and electricity rates. If you are a new customer looking for a new tariff, or a current EDF user wanting to save money, knowing about daily standing charges can help you make smarter choices about your energy use.

This guide talks about EDF Energy’s standing charges. It explains how these charges affect energy costs. It also compares them to other energy suppliers.

What is a Standing Charge?

A standing charge is a daily fee that customers pay to keep their energy supply network running. This cost includes things like meter readings, upkeep, and service connections. It does not depend on how much energy is used.

Why Do Energy Bills Have Standing Charges?

Energy companies, like EDF, have standing charges. These charges help pay for:

  • Network upkeep and infrastructure costs.
  • Support for smart meters and prepayment meters.
  • Connections for gas and electricity supply.
  • Fees for following regulations (like renewable energy rules).

EDF Energy Standing Charge Rates

The daily standing charge changes depending on the kind of energy tariff you choose. It can be a fixed-rate or a standard variable tariff. Here is a comparison of standing charge rates from EDF.

Tariff Type Electricity Standing Charge (per day) Gas Standing Charge (per day)
Standard Variable Tariff £0.50 £0.35
Fixed Tariff (New Customers) £0.45 £0.30
Prepayment Meter £0.55 £0.40
Economy 7 £0.52 N/A

Rates are close estimates and can change due to Ofgem’s price cap updates.

How Does the Energy Price Cap Affect Standing Charges?

The energy price cap, created by Ofgem, controls how much energy suppliers like EDF can charge for unit rates and standing charges. But, there has been a rise in standing charges in recent years. This increase is because of the growing costs of the network.

Year Average Standing Charge Increase
2021 £0.25 per day
2022 £0.35 per day
2023 £0.45 per day
2024 £0.50 per day
2025 (Projected) £0.55 per day

Can You Get a Tariff With a Lower Standing Charge?

EDF has limited-time tariffs that offer a lower standing charge for a higher unit rate. These plans might help you save if you use less energy but still prefer a regular plan.

Who Benefits from Lower Standing Charges?

  • Homes that use little energy (such as vacation homes).
  • People wanting a financial benefit through prepayment meters.
  • Individuals who depend on solar panels to make their own energy.

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How Does EDF Compare to Other Energy Suppliers?

Supplier Electricity Standing Charge Gas Standing Charge
EDF Energy £0.50 £0.35
British Gas £0.52 £0.37
Octopus Energy £0.48 £0.33
Scottish Power £0.55 £0.38

EDF’s standing charges are still competitive. However, they can change based on the type of tariff you choose. This also depends on whether you pay using direct debit or a prepayment meter.

How Can You Reduce Your Standing Charge Costs?

There are many ways to lower your energy costs, including:

  • Switching tariffs: Look at options like the Simply Tracker Extra Tariff to save money.
  • Applying for financial aid: Programs such as the Warm Home Discount Scheme can lower your bills.
  • Using smart meters: Smart meters show you real-time data on your energy use to help cut down on extra usage.
  • Reducing overall usage: Using less kWh can lower both unit rate charges and standing charges over time.
  • Using the EDF App: The EDF app shows you how much energy you use, making it easier to manage consumption.
  • Exploring Renewable Energy: Buying solar panels and choosing low-emission options can lower costs in the long run.

Does EDF Offer Standing Charge-Free Tariffs?

EDF Energy does not have a zero-standing-charge tariff right now. However, some tariffs have lower standing charges but higher unit rates. These can be a good choice for low-energy users.

Understanding the Impact of Standing Charges on Prepayment Meters

For customers with a prepayment meter, standing charges will still be charged even if they do not use any energy. This means that every day, credit will be taken from the meter, even if no one is living in the property.

How to Manage Standing Charges on a Prepayment Meter

  • Add money often to keep from going into negative balance.
  • Sign up for the Warm Home Discount Scheme to get help with winter bills.
  • Look for new tariffs—a new customer deal may have lower fees.

EDF’s Role in a Low-Emission Future

EDF Energy is helping the UK move towards a low-emission economy by:

  • Investing in Hinkley Point C and nuclear power for steady energy.
  • Expanding EV tariffs for owners of electric vehicles.
  • Helping with solar power projects to lessen the use of fossil fuels.
  • Providing business car leasing for electric vehicles to promote sustainability.
  • Aiding the UK’s climate change goals by creating low-carbon solutions.

How Do Standing Charges Vary Across the UK?

Standing charges can change depending on where you are. This is due to network costs and the costs of local infrastructure. In England, Wales, and Scotland, these standing charges can vary. This depends on how much low-emission energy is available, the demand for energy, and what government policies are in place.

Region Average Standing Charge (Electricity)
England £0.50 per day
Wales £0.52 per day
Scotland £0.54 per day

How Do Standing Charges Vary Across the UK

Correct as of 04 March 2025

FAQ’s About EDF Energy Standing Charges

Why do I pay a standing charge even if I don’t use any energy?

Standing charges are the fees that help pay for the upkeep of your energy supply network. They make sure your home stays connected, even when you are not using gas or electricity.

Can I get a refund on standing charges?

No, standing charges are set daily fees that you pay even if you don’t use any energy. But you can reduce your total energy costs by changing to a tariff that has a lower standing charge.

Do smart meters affect standing charges?

No, smart meters do not change your daily standing charge. However, they can help you use less energy. This can lead to lower unit rate costs.

Does EDF Energy offer standing charge discounts?

EDF does not provide special discounts for standing charges. However, certain tariffs come with lower standing charges but have different unit rates.

What happens if I don’t pay my standing charge on a prepayment meter?

For people with a prepayment meter, standing charges continue to build up every day, even if no energy is used. If these charges are not paid, they will be taken out when the meter is topped up again.

Can I pay my standing charge with a cash cheque?

Yes, EDF Energy lets you pay using cash cheques, direct debit, or the EDF app. This makes it easy to manage your energy bills.

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