Is There a Cheapest Energy Supplier?
Understanding the reality after price cap changes
⚠️ There is NO single cheapest supplier for everyone
Even after price cap changes, the cheapest supplier depends entirely on your postcode, usage patterns, meter type, and whether you choose fixed or variable tariffs.
The Ofgem price cap limits maximum unit rates and standing charges but doesn't set a single national price or stop suppliers offering cheaper fixed deals below the cap.
Critical Understanding
The price cap is a MAXIMUM, not a deal. Most variable tariffs sit close to the cap, while fixed tariffs can be significantly below it. This is why comparison matters more than headlines.
Potential Cheapest Suppliers 2026
Patterns, not promises – who often appears cheapest
Octopus Energy
Green SupplierOften competitive with innovative tariffs and good customer service ratings.
E.ON Next
Large SupplierFrequently appears in cheaper fixed deals with renewable energy options.
EDF Energy
French-OwnedCompetitive fixed tariffs, especially for dual fuel customers in certain regions.
ScottishPower
Scottish FocusOften competitive in Scottish regions with various tariff options.
British Gas
Largest SupplierFrequent fixed tariff promotions that can undercut the price cap.
Utility Warehouse
Bundle ProviderOften cheapest for bundled services but requires multi-service commitment.
Fixed vs Variable Tariffs After Cap
Where the real savings are found after price cap changes
Fixed Tariffs
- Locked rates for 12-24 months
- Protection from future cap rises
- Can undercut current price cap
- May include exit fees
- Best for price certainty
- Often 10-20% below cap
Variable Tariffs
- Prices change quarterly
- Automatic cap protection
- No exit fees
- Rarely the cheapest option
- Most households overpay
- Follows price cap closely
Price Cap vs Fixed Deals
Cheapest Supplier Depends on Usage
How different households find different cheapest suppliers
Usage-Based Cheapest Supplier Analysis
Low Usage Homes
Standing charges matter most. Often benefit from low or no standing charge tariffs.
Average Usage Homes
Fixed tariffs below the cap usually cheapest. Balance of rates and charges.
High Usage Homes
Unit rate differences dominate. Small savings per kWh add up significantly.
Electricity vs Gas Reality
After price cap changes, electricity and gas prices move differently. The cheapest electricity supplier may not be the cheapest gas supplier. Dual fuel is convenient but not always cheapest.
Potential Savings Calculator
Estimate how much you could save after price cap changes
Customise Your Profile
Adjust sliders to match your current energy situation
Common Mistakes After Cap Changes
Costly errors that keep households overpaying
Assuming Cap = Cheapest
Believing the price cap guarantees you're getting the best deal, when fixed tariffs are often cheaper.
Staying on Variable
Remaining on variable tariffs out of habit or fear of exit fees, missing cheaper fixed deals.
Ignoring Standing Charges
Focusing only on unit rates while standing charges add £300-£400+ annually.
Trusting Headlines
Believing generic "cheapest supplier" lists that ignore regional and usage differences.
✅ Best Practice After Cap Changes
Compare every time the price cap changes, when your fixed tariff ends, when usage patterns change, and at least once per year. Energy prices move — loyalty doesn't pay.
2026 Price Cap Verdict
Expert recommendations for finding cheapest suppliers
✅ The Cap is a Ceiling, Not a Bargain
Fixed tariffs often beat capped prices by 10-20%. The "cheapest supplier" depends entirely on the household's specific circumstances.
For Most Households
Fixed tariffs below the price cap offer the best value after cap changes. Savings of £150-£400+ are common when switching from variable tariffs.
Key Consideration
Postcode-specific pricing means national "cheapest" lists are misleading. Only accurate comparison reveals your truly cheapest supplier.