Understand tariffs, switching, the price cap and how your bills work — in plain English so you can decide with confidence.
What do you need to work out?
Pick the closest match. Each path leads to a curated cluster of guides.
I want to switch supplier
When, how, what to check before you go.
6 guides →I don't understand my bill
Reading bills, the price cap, what charges mean.
9 guides →I'm struggling to pay
Hardship funds, grants, repayment plans, your rights.
3 guides →I'm thinking longer term
Heat pumps, solar, EVs, smart meters, EPCs.
3 guides →Editor’s picks
See all 21 guides →Key Guide
4 guidesCore Guide
4 guidesDeep Dive
3 guidesThe full library
Showing 6 of 21 guidesSwitching Energy Suppliers: A Simple How-To Guide
• Switching is administrative only — supply is never interrupted • Most switches complete in around five working days (after cooling-off) • You have a 14-day cooling-off period • Exit fees may apply on fixed tariffs • You can switch penalty-free within 49 days of contract end • Smart meters usually remain fully functional • Final bills must be issued within six weeks
Key GuideUnderstanding Your Energy Bill
• Bills are calculated using kWh usage • Unit rate × consumption = usage cost • Standing charge applies daily • VAT is 5% for domestic supply • Direct debit smooths seasonal variation
Key GuideEnergy Price Cap Explained
• The cap limits unit rates and standing charges • It applies to standard variable tariffs • It is updated quarterly • It reflects wholesale and network costs • It does not cap total household bills
Key GuideFixed vs Variable Tariffs Explained
• Fixed tariffs lock your unit rate for a set period • Variable tariffs can rise or fall with market changes • The Energy Price Cap limits most standard variable tariffs • Fixed tariffs often include exit fees • The best choice depends on risk tolerance and market conditions
Key GuideWhat Affects Energy Prices?
• Wholesale gas prices heavily influence UK electricity prices • Global events directly impact UK household bills • Suppliers hedge energy in advance to manage risk • Network and policy costs form a significant share of bills • Weather and demand volatility can shift prices rapidly • The Energy Price Cap limits retail pricing but does not control wholesale markets
Key GuideUnderstanding Smart Meters
• Smart meters send readings automatically • Bills are based on actual usage • They do not automatically reduce bills • You can decline installation • Data privacy is regulated