Why people switch
Most UK households are on a standard variable tariff, which moves in line with Ofgem's price cap. From 1 July 2026, that cap sits at around £1,660 a year for a typical dual-fuel household paying by Direct Debit (electricity at 26.11p/kWh with a 57.19p daily standing charge, gas at 7.33p/kWh with a 29.04p daily standing charge). The cap is reviewed every three months, so it's worth checking ofgem.gov.uk for the current figure before you compare.
Fixed tariffs, available through comparison platforms, can sometimes undercut the cap; but the gap varies depending on wholesale market conditions at the time you compare. The only way to know what's available for your address is to run a comparison.
What to have ready before you compare
Having a few details to hand makes the process faster and the results more accurate.
Your address and postcode
Regional distribution charges mean the same tariff can cost a different amount depending on where you live, so comparison tools always start with your postcode.
Fuel type
Decide whether you're comparing dual fuel (gas and electricity from one supplier) or electricity only. Dual fuel is more common and often slightly cheaper per fuel, but it isn't compulsory.
Annual usage figures
Look for the kWh figures on a recent bill; usually shown as an annual total or a monthly average you can multiply by 12. If you don't have a bill to hand, most tools let you select a household size (e.g. one-bedroom flat, three-bedroom house) and use a typical consumption estimate instead. Real bill figures give a more accurate result.
Current supplier and tariff name
This isn't always required, but having it ready means you won't need to pause and look it up partway through.
Payment details
If you decide to switch, you'll usually need bank details for a Direct Debit. You won't need these just to compare.
What happens on the comparison tool
Once you click through to our partner platform, you'll be asked for your postcode first, since it determines which suppliers and network charges apply to your address. Next comes property and usage information; the more accurate this is, the more accurate the annual cost estimates will be.
Results are typically listed by estimated annual cost, with the cheapest first. For each tariff you can usually see the unit rate and standing charge for each fuel, whether the tariff is fixed or variable, the contract length, any exit fees, and whether the electricity is marketed as renewable. It's worth opening a couple of options and comparing these details side by side rather than going purely on the headline price, since contract length and exit fees affect the real value of a deal.