Top 5 Ways to Compare Energy Prices and Save in 2025

Why Comparing Energy Prices Matters More Than Ever

With energy costs taking up a big part of what you spend each month, you need to know how to compare energy prices. This can help you save hundreds of pounds each year. The UK energy market changes a lot. It changes because of things like market conditions, Ofgem’s rules, and the energy price cap. You may be on a fixed tariff or you may be with a standard variable tariff. No matter which one you have, you can look at new deals. If you switch to a new supplier, you could get a lower tariff and save money on your bills.

1. Use Trusted Price Comparison Websites

The easiest and fastest way to check energy prices is to use a regulated price comparison site. On these sites, you can enter your postcode, your energy usage in kWh, and your payment method. They then show you a list of tariffs you can get from different suppliers. Ofgem-approved comparison tools make sure that the information be correct and clear.

Key Benefits:

• Get a quick look at both fixed and variable energy tariffs.
• Use filters to pick prepayment meter, smart meter, or dual fuel options.
• You can see the standing charge and the price per kWh for each supplier.
• Some deals include their own cashback or other rewards if you switch.

2. Check with Your Current Energy Supplier

Before you move to another company, you should ask your current provider if they have a better fixed rate tariff for you. Loyalty does not always help in the energy market. But now and then, your current supplier may try to keep you by giving you a good deal on your tariff.

What to Ask:

• Are there any new fixed tariffs?
• Will I have to pay an exit fee if I leave my current tariff?
• Can I get a dual fuel discount?

Knowing how much energy you use right now is helpful when you look at other options. You can usually see your energy usage in kWh on your bill. This makes it easier to compare and find what may work best for you.

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3. Analyse Your Annual Energy Usage

To compare things the right way, you have to know how much energy you use in a year. This will be for both electricity and gas if you have it in your home. If you use a smart meter, you can see your usage almost as soon as it happens. If you do not have a smart meter, the yearly summary from your old supplier will help you find out your energy usage.

Average UK Energy Usage (2023):

Knowing your real usage helps you see how much you spend on energy costs in the right way. This can help you not pay too much when people use estimates. When you know how much you use, you can find out if there is a better way to save money. It makes it easy to see the actual energy costs you need to pay.

4. Understand Tariff Types and Payment Methods

Different tariff types affect how much you pay:

Fixed Tariff:

• Set the unit price (kWh) to stay the same for a set time, like 12 months.
• This is good if you want to make a budget and have peace of mind.
• There may be an exit fee if you choose to leave early.

Standard Variable Tariff:

• Prices can go up or down with the energy price cap.
• It is often the most expensive option if you do not keep an eye on it.
• There is no exit fee.

Prepayment Tariff:

• You can pay ahead of time by using a key or a card.
• A lot of landlords or tenants use this way to pay.
• Ofgem puts a price cap on prepayment, so you get a fair price.

Smart Export Guarantee:

• If you have solar panels or an electric vehicle charger, some suppliers can give you money for the electricity you send out.

Payment Methods:

5. Watch the Energy Price Cap and Seasonal Changes

The energy price cap from Ofgem gets updated every three months. This change affects most people who stay on a standard variable energy tariff. It is good to watch for news about the price cap. This can help you know when it is a good time to get a fixed tariff deal.

April Price Cap (2025):

Energy use often goes up in the cold months. So, it is a good idea to compare deals in the spring or summer. There is less demand at that time. This can help you see better deals before more people start looking for energy options.

Should You Switch if You Have a Smart Meter?

Smart meters let you see how much energy you use right when you use it. A new supplier may give you smart-only tariffs that cost less or give you something extra, like a lower price at off-peak times and a higher one at peak times. If your current supplier is not using the smart meter to help you get more from your usage, you can look into a new supplier who will.

Does Having an Electric Vehicle Affect Energy Choices?

Yes. Homes that have EVs usually use more electricity. Many companies now give EV-friendly rates with lower prices at night. This is good for people who charge the EV at home during the night.

Correct as of 09 June 2025

FAQs About Comparing Energy Prices in the UK

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