The average UK household on a standard variable tariff in April 2026 pays close to the Ofgem price cap: 24.5p/kWh for electricity and 6.24p/kWh for gas. Fixed deals are returning to the market at competitive rates. Understanding the rate landscape — not just headline figures — is how you know when and whether to switch.
April 2026 Rate Landscape
Ofgem Q2 2026 price cap equates to approximately £1,849/year for a typical household (11,500 kWh gas, 2,700 kWh electricity). Comparison data shows: If you want to check the latest energy rates, it only takes a few minutes.
- Standard variable tariffs: At or near cap rate. No exit fees. Switch anytime.
- 1-year fixed tariffs: Currently 3-6% below cap from Octopus, E.ON Next, EDF. Exit fees £25-£50 per fuel.
- 2-year fixed tariffs: Available at smaller discounts — greater market uncertainty beyond 2026 narrows the gap.
- Standing charges: Electricity 61p/day, gas 31p/day under current cap. Some tariffs undercut these.
How Long Does Switching Actually Take?
Industry standard: 5 working days. Process breakdown:
- Day 1: Apply online to new supplier — 8-12 minutes
- Days 1-3: 14-day cooling-off period — cancel anytime, no penalty
- Day 5: Switch proceeds automatically if not cancelled
- Switch date: Submit meter readings to both old and new supplier
- Within 6 weeks: Final bill from old supplier — verify against your submitted reading
Your supply is never interrupted. The same infrastructure delivers your energy regardless of supplier. You can also energy rate FAQs to see what's available.
Exit Fee Calculation: Is It Worth Switching Early?
The maths: if you have 12 months left on a tariff costing £200/year more than the best available deal, you would save £100 net even after paying £100 in exit fees. With 6 months left and £80/year potential saving, the £40 saving does not justify £100 exit fees — wait it out.
Ofgem-Accredited Comparison Tools
- Uswitch
- MoneySuperMarket
- Compare the Market
- Go.Compare
Enter your actual annual kWh usage from your bill — not just your postcode. Default typical consumption figures frequently produce misleading cost comparisons.
Ready to cut your energy costs? Compare deals today and see how much you could save.
