Tariff comparison

Standard energy tariffs often fail to reflect the value of the flexible energy usage provided by modern low-carbon technologies. This guide helps you compare the different types of “smart” tariffs available in the UK today.

Popular Smart Tariffs by Technology

For EV Owners

These tariffs offer a very cheap window of electricity (typically 4-6 hours) overnight.

• Octopus Go / Intelligent Octopus: One of the most popular, offering rates as low as 7p/kWh.
• OVO Charge Anytime: Offers a separate, low rate for EV charging regardless of the time of day, using “smart charging” technology.
• British Gas Electric Driver: Offers cheaper off-peak electricity specifically for EV charging.

For Heat Pump Owners

Heat pumps run most of the day, so they benefit from broader off-peak windows.

• Octopus Cosy: Offers three distinct price periods, including two “Cosy Hours” blocks of cheaper electricity during the day and night to boost your heating efficiency.

For Solar and Battery Owners

If you can “load shift” your usage or store solar power, dynamic tariffs offer the highest potential savings.

• Octopus Agile: Half-hourly pricing based on wholesale rates. Ideal if you can automate your home to avoid the 4pm-7pm peak.
• 100% Green Tariffs: Suppliers like Good Energy and Ecotricity focus on 100% renewable sourcing and supporting new green generation.

Interactive Tariff Comparison Tool

Use our tool to estimate your annual costs across different tariff types based on your usage and ability to shift energy to off-peak times.

A typical UK home uses around 2,700kWh per year. An EV adds about 2,000kWh.

How much of your energy can you shift to off-peak times (e.g. overnight)?

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Estimated Annual Costs

Tariff Type	Estimated Annual Cost	Average Unit Rate
Standard Variable (25p)	£0.00	25.0p
EV Specific (30p / 7p)	£0.00	0.0p
Heat Pump (30p / 15p)	£0.00	0.0p
Agile / Dynamic (Est. 18p)	£0.00	18.0p

Best value: Calculating...

Note: These calculations are estimates for illustrative purposes. Standard Variable rate is assumed at 25p. EV tariff assumes 30p day / 7p night. Heat Pump tariff assumes 30p peak / 15p off-peak. Standing charges are included in the annual total.

What to look for when comparing

1. Standing Charge: Smart tariffs often have a slightly higher daily standing charge. Ensure your savings from the lower unit rates outweigh this.
2. Peak Window: Some tariffs have a very expensive “peak” period (usually 4pm-7pm). If you cannot reduce your usage during this time, these tariffs may cost you more.
3. Compatibility: Ensure your EV charger or smart thermostat is compatible with the supplier’s automated systems.

Pro Tip: Use independent comparison apps like Octopus Comparison or Loop to see how much you would have spent on a different tariff based on your actual historical smart meter data.