Comparing tariffs is a good way to check if you can save money by switching to a new supplier.
You will need:
You can find this information on your energy bill or online with your account.
We have more information on how to get help with food and energy bills.
Government help with energy bills
Discount on water bills and help with debt
You can also get free advice on managing bills by contacting Scope’s energy support service.
Think about what is most important for you and your home. It could be a tariff:
Price comparison websites can support you through the process of switching tariffs.
Not all price comparison websites show the same tariffs and suppliers. Some suppliers are not on comparison websites.
Before starting your search, it is helpful to have:
Energy price comparison websites (Ofgem)
If you have a monthly direct debit, you could try Cheap Energy Club (MoneySavingExpert)
Compare energy suppliers' customer service (Citizens Advice)
You can compare 2 tariffs yourself. This is useful if a tariff is not on comparison websites.
If something big has changed in the last 12 months, like new equipment or someone moving into your home, it is harder to predict how much energy you will use. Ask your energy supplier for a 12-month prediction.
Some tariffs are harder to compare. For example, time of use tariffs charge different rates at peak and off-peak times.
Comparing tariffs can be complicated. You do not have to do it on your own.
Your energy supplier can work out if you would save money on one of their other tariffs.
Scope's Disability Energy Support can help you understand your energy use and your bills. They cannot tell you which tariff to choose.
From June 2026, some energy suppliers are offering tariffs with a lower standing charge. This is part of a one-year trial run by Ofgem, the energy regulator.
The suppliers taking part are:
A standing charge is the amount you pay every day for your energy supply. You pay the standing charge even if you do not use any energy.
Your standing charge will depend on:
You can find your standing charge on your energy bill.
Energy price cap and standing charges explained (Ofgem)
On these tariffs:
A lower standing charge could save you money but if you use a lot of energy, you might pay more overall.
Compare your current tariff with the new one before you switch.
You may use more energy because of your impairment or condition. For example, if you:
If this is you, the lower standing charge tariff could cost you more.
Each supplier has its own rules about who can apply. There is a limit on how many people can get these tariffs. The trial lasts one year, but how long you stay on the tariff depends on your contract. Ask the supplier what happens when it ends.
If you are on a standard variable tariff, you can switch at any time.
If you are on a fixed tariff, you may have to pay an exit charge to leave early. You will not have to pay it in the last 49 days of your deal. If you are staying with the same supplier, ask about the exit charge. You might not have to pay it.
If you're in debt with your current supplier, you may still be able to switch.
If you switch suppliers or move house, make sure they refund any credit to you.
If you change your mind about switching, contact the supplier you are switching to as soon as possible.
If your tariff has not been switched, you should be able to stay with your old supplier.
If your tariff has already been switched, there is a cooling-off period of 14 days.
You have 15 working days to choose a new contract with:
You may still be able to switch supplier if you owe them money.
Switching energy supplier if you're in debt (Citizens Advice)
You do not have to pay for debt advice. You can get free debt information and support from:
Turn2us has an advice finder where you can find advice services in your area. Select 'debt' from the menu to find local services that can help you manage your rent arrears.
Debt advisers can help you contact the organisation you owe money to. They can help you agree a payment plan with the organisation.
Debt can be stressful, but there is help available.
Take readings before you switch.
If you need help to read a meter, sign up for Priority Services Register.
Contact your supplier if your smart meter stops working or sending information.
Energy suppliers must maintain smart meters for 12 months after installing them. Some suppliers have agreed to provide extra support. See the list of suppliers and what they have agreed to do.
Contact Scope’s Disability Energy Support to arrange an appointment if you would like advice.
If you switch to a new supplier, your credit will not usually be carried over from your old supplier. You would still need to top up.
Your old supplier will refund your credit after you switch.
Your electrical energy supplier should have been in touch to upgrade you to a smart meter before 30 June 2025.
If they have not, take a look at:
If you are eligible, you will receive £150 credit to your electricity account or prepayment meter.
If you have signed up to the Priority Services Register with your current supplier, you will need to do this again with your new supplier.
If you are disabled or have children under 5, it is free to sign up to the Priority Services Register to receive:
You can complain if your supplier tries to stop you from switching when you are entitled to.
Complain to your energy supplier (Citizens Advice)
You may need to write to your supplier and say why you have the right to switch.
Letter to switch energy supplier if you have a prepayment meter (Citizens Advice)
Contact Scope’s Disability Energy Support to arrange an appointment if you would like advice.
Last reviewed by Scope on: 17/08/2026
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