Energy tariffs determine how much you pay for your energy and how effectively your home integrates with modern technologies such as EV chargers. As more households switch to electric cars and solar power, tariffs matter more than ever.1 Many people assume there isn't a huge difference between suppliers or tariffs. In reality, tariff structure varies dramatically between suppliers and can significantly affect your energy bills. If you have solar panels or use smart home tech like EV chargers, the right energy tariff can unlock substantial savings.2 This guide explains how tariffs work, how to compare major suppliers such as British Gas, EDF, Octopus Energy, and OVO, and why Fuse Energy offers the smarter, more flexible choice.
Energy tariffs are pricing plans offered by your energy supplier.
Tariffs include two main components:
- A standing charge: a fixed daily fee paid regardless of usage.
- A unit rate: the price you pay per kWh of electricity or gas used.3
Your total energy bill depends on both, not just the monthly estimate.
Fuse Energy offers four types of tariffs
Every Fuse tariff combines a rate structure with a price type, giving four options: single-rate fixed, single-rate variable, off-peak fixed, and off-peak variable.
- Rate structure: single-rate charges one unit rate whenever you use energy; off-peak charges a cheaper unit rate during off-peak hours and more at peak times.
- Price type: fixed locks your rates for the contract; variable moves with the market.
Single-rate tariffs
A single-rate tariff charges the same standing charge and unit rate regardless of the time of day energy is used. It is the simplest option and a good fit if your usage is spread evenly across the day.
Off-peak tariffs
An off-peak tariff has multiple unit rates that differ depending on the time of day energy is used. Electricity costs less during off-peak times and more during peak times. At Fuse, our off-peak tariff gives you a 7-hour off-peak window from 12:30am to 7:30am that applies to your entire household, so you can run your EV, appliances and more overnight at a lower cost. All you need is a compatible meter.
Off-peak tariffs reward flexibility. By shifting usage from peak to off-peak times, you save money. Usually do your laundry during the day? Try doing it at night and see how much you can save.
Fixed vs variable pricing
Both single-rate and off-peak tariffs come as either fixed or variable. With a fixed tariff, your standing charge and unit rate(s) are locked for a set period, providing protection against energy price cap changes. Note that only the prices themselves are fixed - your total bill depends on how much energy you use. With a variable tariff, your standing charge and unit rate(s) change with market conditions and typically update each quarter (1st January, 1st April, 1st July, 1st October) in line with the energy price cap3. We do not charge exit fees for leaving a variable tariff, making it a good choice if you're moving home or staying at a property for a limited period of time.
When people search for the best tariff, they often focus on the lowest unit rate. Although, that may not provide the complete picture. Instead, compare tariffs using your estimated annual usage in kWh, standing charge totals, exit fee terms, and off-peak usage.
A quick checklist
- Do I drive an EV?
- Do I use more energy during the day or night?
- Can I shift electricity usage to off-peak times?
- What is my estimated annual consumption (EAC)? You can find your EAC on your previous bills or by asking your supplier.
There is no universal best tariff. Be careful not to assume that there are no differences between providers. The right tariff depends on your lifestyle and technology, and this is something we can advise on at Fuse Energy. Small differences compound over time.
We design tariffs around modern homes. We focus on transparent pricing with clear breakdowns of standing charges and unit rates, automated EV charging during off-peak windows, seamless integration with smart technology, and digital-first account management.
While other suppliers may offer competitive plans, we at Fuse Energy go beyond these by emphasising simplicity and innovation. We integrate affordable rates, exceptional user experience, energy installations, and great customer service.
Switch to Fuse Energy today and power your home, the smarter way.
Do I need a smart meter to switch to an off-peak tariff?
You can switch to an off-peak tariff as long as your meter is capable of differentiating between usage during peak times and off-peak times. Connected smart meters support off-peak tariffs as they take half-hourly readings throughout the day. If your meter is not compatible, we can install a smart meter once you switch in, completely free of cost.
What is the best tariff for me if I have an EV?
The best tariff depends on your charging habits and total energy usage. Compare total annual cost, off-peak window length and standing charge before deciding. Fuse Energy's off-peak tariff applies to your entire household so by scheduling appliances to run between 12:30am and 7:30am, you can reap compounding savings.
Can I switch to Fuse if I already have an EV charger?
Yes! You can add compatible EV chargers on the Fuse Energy app, and you can switch to our off-peak tariff as long as you have a compatible meter.
References
- Uswitch. EV charging statistics
- Which?. Energy tariffs explained
- Ofgem. Energy price cap explained
