Compare the best energy deals of 2021

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How to find the best energy deal

Choosing the right energy tariff could save you more than a hundred pounds a year. By using comparison tables, like that displayed above, you can check to see if you could find a better deal elsewhere.

If you want the same supplier for your gas and electricity, a dual-fuel deal often works out cheaper than buying the two fuels on separate tariffs, but be sure to check this against your current rate before signing the contract.

You’re also more likely to get a cheaper deal on a fixed tariff than a variable one, which is often more competitively priced.

Cautious with your energy use? You could get an even better deal by searching for a deal specifically for households with a smart meter. These track the amount of gas and electricity you use and show you how much it’s costing you.

How to find the best energy supplier

Although price is a huge decider when it comes to picking your energy provider, it shouldn’t be the only factor at play. You’ll want to choose the provider that’s trusted, holds a good reputation and most importantly… isn’t likely to go bust.

While picking from this ever-changing list can be daunting, shopping around and doing your research can help you to find the perfect option, whether you’re looking for the cheapest deal on the market, renewable energy, great online service, smart meters or a local firm.

So do your homework by browsing our reviews of many of the energy providers on the market right now in this guide, or compare suppliers in the table above.

Tariffs

Tariffs can be pretty confusing, so we’ve explained the most common ones below.

• Standard tariffs. This is the name usually given to your supplier’s “default” tariff. The prices of standard tariffs go up and down with the energy market. Some suppliers refer to this as an “evergreen” tariff.
• Fixed energy tariffs. These tariffs offer guaranteed charges and rates. A fixed energy tariff normally lasts until a defined date set by the supplier.
• Dual fuel tariffs. A dual fuel tariff is a tariff which provides electricity and gas from the same supplier. Sometimes referred to as “bundling”, dual fuel energy tariffs are often easier to manage for customers. Similarly, dual fuel tariffs are often cheaper for customers, as suppliers offer deals to try and stop you switching to competitors.
• Pre-payment tariffs. These tariffs are for people with pre-payment meters and enable customers to pay in advance for gas and electricity by “topping-up” their meter using prepay tokens, cards or a key.
• Green energy tariffs. A “green” tariff can be one of two things. Either the supplier will promise to match your usage with generation from renewable sources of energy, or it will contribute towards environmental schemes on your behalf.
• Feed in tariffs. This is where you’ve installed solar panels or wind turbines at your property, and the energy suppliers pay you for the energy produced.

How to switch

Compare. Switch. Save. It really only takes three steps. You can follow our step-by-step guide to switching. It’ll take you through each stage and give you an idea of what to expect once you’ve switched.

Switching tariff is a great way to make big savings. Energy providers try to keep long term customers who never get around to switching. UK customers overpay £1.7 billion a year on energy bills because they can’t be bothered to switch!

Frequently asked questions

• Do I have to contact my current supplier if I switch?

  Nope. New suppliers take care of everything, and this includes the cancellation of your old tariff. Similarly, new suppliers will organise the switching date. This means you won’t be charged twice for the service. Make sure you cancel your Direct Debit after your final payment to your old supplier, just to be on the safe side.

• How long does switching take?

  Most switches are done within 17 days, but it can take up to 3 weeks. Your new supplier will let you know your exact switch date.

  Also check if the supplier you want to switch to is signed up to the Energy Switch Guarantee. The Guarantee means suppliers have to stick to certain rules such as allowing a 14-day cooling-off period if you change your mind or aren’t happy with your service.

• Will I be billed twice?

  New suppliers will only start charging from your switch date. So no, you shouldn’t be charged twice. Do cancel your Direct Debit though, just to make sure!

• When do I begin paying my new supplier?

  The old supplier will send you a final bill for the period up to the switching date. On that date, the new supplier takes over.

• Will I be charged an exit fee for leaving my current supplier?

  If you switch within the 6 to 7 weeks before the end of your current plan, the exit fee will be waived.

  This is a rule put in place by Ofgem, and all suppliers have to follow it.

• Should I cancel direct debits?

  After the final payment, cancel your direct debit just to be on the safe side.