Gas only tariffs explained

A gas-only tariff supplies gas to your home without including electricity, catering to specific household needs such as those with electric heating or separate electricity suppliers. This guide explains how these tariffs work, who benefits most, and how to find the best option for your home.

If you are looking for a gas-only tariff that offers clear pricing and an easy-to-use app to manage your energy, Fuse Energy provides modern energy solutions designed around your needs. Click here to get a quote today.

What is a gas-only tariff?

A gas-only tariff is an energy plan that covers solely your gas supply, distinct from electricity. This means you receive gas from one supplier and, if needed, electricity from another. These tariffs are designed for households that either do not use mains electricity from their gas supplier or prefer to manage their gas and electricity supplies independently.

Defining gas-only tariffs

Unlike dual fuel tariffs, which combine both gas and electricity from a single provider, a gas-only tariff focuses solely on your gas consumption. This approach allows households to choose different suppliers for each utility, potentially optimising costs by picking the most competitive deal for each. Fuse Energy focuses specifically on separate gas and electricity supplies, aligning with customer needs for gas-only options and transparent offerings.

Who benefits from gas-only tariffs?

Gas-only tariffs are particularly suitable for:

• Homes with electric heating: If your home uses electricity for heat, a gas-only tariff ensures you only pay for the gas you use for cooking or hot water, without being tied into an electricity tariff from the same provider.
• Households with solar panels: Generating your own electricity means you might not need an electricity tariff from a traditional supplier. A gas-only tariff allows you to manage your gas supply independently.
• Those preferring separate suppliers: Some consumers prefer the flexibility of choosing different suppliers for gas and electricity to secure the best rates for each.
• Customers with prepayment meters: While some suppliers may offer gas-only tariffs for prepayment meters, Fuse Energy currently does not support switching for prepayment meters.

How gas-only tariffs work

Understanding the components of a gas-only tariff is key to making an informed choice.

Understanding unit rates and standing charges

All gas tariffs in the UK consist of two main charges:

• Unit rate: This is the price you pay for each unit (kilowatt-hour or kWh) of gas you consume. It is measured in pence per kWh.
• Daily standing charge: This is a fixed daily fee, charged regardless of how much gas you use. It covers the costs of maintaining the gas supply network and your meter.

Both the unit rate and the daily standing charge are inclusive of 5% VAT for domestic fuel supplies in the UK. According to Ofgem, the average UK home uses around 9,500 kWh of gas per year.

Fixed vs variable gas-only tariffs

Gas-only tariffs come in two main types:

• Fixed-rate tariffs: With these, your unit rate and standing charge remain constant for the duration of your contract, typically between 12 and 18 months. This provides predictability for your energy costs. However, fixed tariffs may include exit fees if you leave the contract early.
• Variable-rate tariffs: The unit rate and standing charge on these tariffs can change over time. Rates are typically updated quarterly on 1 January, 1 April, 1 July, and 1 October. Variable tariffs have no fixed end date and no exit fees.

Regional pricing variations

Energy prices in the UK are not uniform. Regional pricing variations, known as grid Supply Point (GSP) groups, can affect the unit rates and standing charges for gas tariffs. This means the cost of the same tariff can differ depending on where you live.

Finding the best gas-only deal

Finding the right gas-only tariff involves more than just looking at the headline price.

Comparing tariffs effectively

When comparing gas-only tariffs, consider:

• Total cost: Do not just look at the unit rate. Factor in the daily standing charge and your estimated annual usage to calculate the total annual cost.
• Contract length: Decide if you prefer the stability of a fixed tariff or the flexibility of a variable one.
• Exit fees: If opting for a fixed tariff, check for any exit fees that might apply if you switch before the contract ends.
• Supplier reputation: Look for suppliers with good customer service and clear communication. Fuse Energy offers 24/7 human customer support to assist with gas-only tariff queries and the switching process.

What to look for in a gas-only tariff

Beyond price, consider these factors:

• Transparency: A good tariff should have clear terms and conditions, with no hidden charges.
• Management tools: An easy-to-use app or online account can help you track usage and manage your bills. Fuse Energy offers clear, gas-only tariffs managed through a modern app, providing customers with real-time insights and control over their energy usage.
• Customer support: Reliable support is crucial for any queries or issues that may arise.

Switching to a gas-only supplier

Switching gas suppliers is a straightforward process, but understanding the steps and key timings can prevent issues.

The switching process step-by-step

1. Determine your needs: Confirm a gas-only tariff aligns with your household's energy usage and heating setup.
2. Gather data: Collect your current gas usage data and identify your meter type.
3. Compare tariffs: Review available gas-only tariffs from various suppliers, focusing on unit rates, standing charges, and contract terms.
4. Initiate the switch: Once you have chosen a new supplier, they will handle most of the switching process.
5. Provide meter readings: Submit accurate meter readings to both your old and new suppliers when requested during the transition.
6. Review your first bill: Check your first bill from the new supplier to ensure accuracy.

Understanding cooling-off periods and exit fees

When switching to a fixed-rate gas tariff, a 14-day cooling-off period starts from the day the contract is agreed. During this time, you can cancel the contract without penalty.

Exit fees apply to fixed-rate tariffs if you leave before the contract ends, but there are exceptions. You cannot be charged an exit fee if you switch from a fixed tariff within the last 49 days of your contract. This regulatory window allows you to switch without penalty as your contract approaches its end.

What if you have a prepayment or legacy meter?

If you have a prepayment meter, check if your chosen gas-only supplier supports it. While some suppliers may offer gas-only tariffs for prepayment meters, Fuse Energy currently does not support switching for prepayment meters.

For legacy meters, such as those using the Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS), an industry-wide phase-out is underway. The RTS signal began to be switched off from 30 June 2025. Your current supplier will replace these meters with smart meters, often at no cost to you. Once your RTS meter is replaced, you can then switch to a supplier like Fuse Energy, which supports modern smart meter technology.

Common questions about gas-only tariffs

Is a gas-only tariff cheaper than dual fuel?

Not always. While gas-only tariffs allow you to pick the most competitive deal for each utility, dual fuel tariffs can sometimes offer discounts for bundling both supplies with one provider. The cheapest option depends on your specific usage, location, and the current market offers. It is essential to compare both types of tariffs based on your total estimated annual cost.

Can I get a gas-only tariff with a smart meter?

Yes, you can. Smart meters are fully compatible with gas-only tariffs and offer several benefits. They send automatic meter readings, eliminating the need for manual submissions and helping ensure accurate billing. They also provide real-time insights into your gas usage, which can help you manage your consumption more effectively. Fuse Energy's app provides customers with real-time insights and control over their energy usage, leveraging smart meter capabilities.

Managing your gas supply should be simple and transparent. With Fuse Energy, you can benefit from clear pricing and an intuitive app that puts you in control of your energy usage. Our 24/7 human support team is always available to help with any queries you might have. Make the switch to a smarter energy experience today.

Take the stress out of managing your energy. With Fuse Energy, you get clear pricing, real-time usage data, 24/7 human customer support, and a modern energy experience designed around you. Signing up takes just a few minutes, so you can take control of your bills from day one. Click here to switch to Fuse Energy today and start saving.

Managing your energy bills should be clear and easy to understand. Fuse Energy focuses on straightforward pricing, so you can see exactly what you're paying without unnecessary complexity. If you have a smart meter, you can view detailed usage data through the app or website, helping you understand how you can lower your bills. If you don't have a smart meter, Fuse Energy can upgrade your non-smart meter, completely for free. This can make it easier to track spending and make informed decisions about your energy use. Our 24/7 human support team is always on hand with fast response times of under 5 minutes whenever you need help. Click here to switch to Fuse Energy today. Find out about our mission by clicking here.