This energy tariffs buyers’ guide outlines the different types of energy tariff available.
You buy gas and electricity in kilowatt hours (kWh) – this is what you’ll see on your bill.

Gas tariffs

Gas tariffs are often at two rates. You might pay 4p for the first 5,000 kWh each quarter, say, and then a lower figure, 2.5p for instance, for each subsequent kWh.
Because suppliers charge different rates, you can lower your gas bills by switching to the tariff that’s best for your own use.

Electricity tariffs

Electricity tariffs work in a similar way, although the pricing is different. You might pay 24p for the first 125 kWh each quarter, say, and then 10p for each subsequent kWh.
Because suppliers charge different rates, you can lower your electricity bills by switching to the best tariff for you.

Dual fuel tariffs

Dual fuel tariffs work the same way as gas and electricity tariffs. However, suppliers give discounts for taking both products from them.

For many people, the discounts mean that a dual-fuel tariff – switching both gas and electricity to the same supplier – works out cheapest.

Green tariffs

With green tariffs, you still get the same gas and electricity. The tariffs work in several ways – but many match energy you use against supplies from renewable sources.
Once you’ve compared gas and electricity prices with us, you can choose to compare just green tariffs.

Online tariffs

Some of the cheapest tariffs are online only. You don’t get a paper bill, but you manage your account over the internet instead – making payments, giving meter readings and so on.

The advantage of giving meter readings online is that you know you won’t over or underpay, compared with a company estimate. Plus you don’t have to wait around for the meter reader.
Once you’ve compared gas and electricity prices with us, you can choose to see just online tariffs.

Tariffs with rewards

As well as cheaper gas and electricity prices, you can also benefit from rewards with some companies – there’s often a reward for signing up and more rewards depending on your bill.
Once you’ve compared gas and electricity prices, you can choose to see just tariffs with rewards.

Fixed and capped tariffs

With fixed-rate tariffs, the price is guaranteed not to change for a certain period. With capped tariffs, it won’t go above a certain level.
These accounts help you budget – you know the exact or maximum amount you will pay.
The downside is that these tariffs are a little more expensive than standard ones, and you won’t benefit fully (at all with fixed-price tariffs) from future falls in energy prices (if there are any).
These tariffs are often for a set period – you’ll pay a fee if you want to switch within the set time.

Economy 7

With an Economy 7 meter, you pay less for electricity you use off-peak (between midnight and 7am), but more during the day. They’re commonly used with storage heaters.
If you have one, use timers to run washing machines, dishwashers and so on at night.

Prepayment meters

Prepayment tariffs are the most expensive way to pay for gas or electricity.
You pay in advance for what you’re going to use, by charging up your key or card at prepayment outlets.
To change to a cheaper way of paying, such as direct debit, you’ll need to have the meter physically changed. You may have a credit check run on you as well.