Compare gas and electricity prices - switch now!

How to switch:

1. Enter your postcode: gas and electricity prices are set regionally, and some suppliers only serve certain areas. This will narrow down which plans and suppliers are available to you.

2. Enter your energy details, selecting the correct meter type: for the most accurate comparison results, you'll also need to input your household's consumption details. You can get those off your most recent energy bill, or you can estimate them by answering questions about your lifestyle (however this may be less accurate).

3. Review your comparison results and pick a new plan.

4. We inform both your old and new supplier of your switch: your new supplier will then contact you within 10-14 days to let you know when you'll start receiving energy from them.

Your supply will not be affected, and there are no engineers or home visits required.

Standard vs fixed plans

A standard energy plan (or standard variable rate tariff) refers to an energy supplier’s basic, variable rate plan. It's often the most expensive tariff that a supplier offers, as it acts as the default plan for people who have just moved into a property, or have come off a fixed term energy deal.

To switch away from a standard energy plan, run an energy plan comparison to see all available plans for you. There are likely to be more competitive fixed deals to be had for your home. Including some that last longer than 18 months (long-term fixed).

Know what type of meter you're on

The most common type of energy meter is a standard credit meter. Check your home isn't fitted with an economy meter for electricity before switching, as these look very similar but have two rates (day and night) which affects your energy comparison.

Prepayment meters are another common type of meter, but instead of being billed by an energy company, you need to keep them topped up and in credit. This can be done with a token, key card, and more frequently online with an app.

All meter types are being phased out by smart meters as part of a national upgrade for the energy industry.

Finding the necessary info on your bill

In order for Uswitch to compare your current energy plan as accurately as possible, you'll need to pick out certain parts of information from your most recent energy bill when running a comparison.

As energy bills aren't the most user-friendly, Uswitch has an online guide dedicated to helping you read and understand your bill, along with sample bills and where to find specific pieces of information you'll need for finding a better energy deal.