Work out what a deal really costs you
Annual cost = (your kWh × unit rate) + (365 × standing charge), for each fuel. Do the same with price cap rates to see the saving. A deal that looks cheap per kWh can lose its advantage if the standing charge is high and your usage is low.
Example method: if you use 2,700 kWh of electricity a year, multiply by the unit rate in pounds, then add 365 days of standing charge. Repeat for gas. Compare the total with the same calculation at price cap rates.
Should you fix this winter?
Fixing protects you from rises but means you won’t benefit if prices fall. With forecasters expecting the January 2027 cap to be higher than October’s, many households are looking at fixes. Ofgem said in August that fixes were available at £100 or more below the October cap. Things to weigh up:
- Is the fix at or below the current cap? If it’s above, you’re paying for insurance against rises.
- How long is the term, and what are the exit fees?
- Remember the 0% VAT on electricity is due to end on 31 March 2027; fixed prices usually move with VAT changes.
Read our news analysis: should you fix your energy this winter?
Sources: Ofgem: energy price cap will rise by 4% from October 2026.
Where to find live deals
Prices change daily, so we don’t publish tariff prices that could be out of date. Use an Ofgem-accredited price comparison site (accredited under the Confidence Code), or check suppliers’ own websites. Some suppliers’ cheapest deals are only available direct or to existing customers.
Last updated: 15 October 2026
