There are many different types of energy plan on the market, including 'Standard' plans, 'Green' plans and 'Online' plans. They all have different prices and benefits, but online plans are almost always the cheapest you can get.

The difference between online energy plans and other energy plans is relatively small. They vary from supplier to supplier, but the most common factor you'll find between online energy plans is that you'll be required to sign up to them via the internet.

Some suppliers treat online plans like any Standard energy plan. They will continue to send you paper bills and maintain your account as normal. However, more commonly, suppliers will require you to manage your account online. This often means you will no longer receive paper bills, and will be sent an email by your supplier when your bill is due, to let you know how much you owe.

Online plans enjoy a host of benefits that don't always come with other types of energy plans:

• Much lower prices: online plans are often hundreds of pounds cheaper than the same supplier's 'Standard' plan. Lower administrative costs means the supplier can pass on the savings to their customers
• Good for the environment: if you choose to receive paperless billing, you can cut down on the amount of paperwork you receive
• Excellent discounts: large discounts are often available if you take an online plan, with even further discounts are available if you pay by direct debit
• Enter your meter readings online: most suppliers offer you the option of entering your meter readings online. It's quick, easy, and ensures that you will always receive accurate bills

To find out if you could save money by switching to an online plan, simply compare gas and electricity prices at uSwitch. All available online plans will be listed in the results, along with the savings you could make.

Don't waste any more time paying over the odds for your energy, compare and switch online today.