Totally lost trying to compare tariffs

Stevie1

I know the system is rubbish, and it's confusing on purpose. But it just feels so hard to properly compare which makes me nervous jumping.

Currently with Octopus, on the flexible tariff after coming off the tracker. NW based.

We had building work last year, so our energy use was high. Jan 25-Dec 25 works at: 5,342kwh electricity, and 25,558kwh gas.

I've done the maths (correctly, I think. maybe.) but my figures don't match what the comparison tool is quoting. I actually find a bigger saving than the one quoted by the comparison tool, even though I've updated it with our usage and tariff. which makes me doubt it…

Also, we may be getting an EV charger next year so might need to consider that, but I can't get my head around that as well🤪

Ms_Chocaholic

Just check the unit rates and SC of each product to compare. Next year is a long way off in terms of what energy prices may or may not do.

Netexporter

Have you got a smart meter, yet? You'll need that to take advantage of EV tariffs. It will also open up a range of other possibilities in the meantime.

Stevie1

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/82049131#Comment_82049131

Yes, we have a smart meter.

Newbie_John

Then set up your account here and see what would be cheapest for you at Ocotpus/EDF:

https://agilebuddy.uk/tools/comparison

it will pull your actual usage and compare various smart Ocotpus tarrifs + EDF FreePhase

Scot_39

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/6674029/totally-lost-trying-to-compare-tariffs

Not to try to insult you, but see many posts where folk forget to add vat to one set or tbe other.

Figures on bills are often ex vat for instance.

Also well worth checking they actually use the numbers exactly as entered - I found some that didnt when asking for e7 quotes - when I nearly gave up on old heaters and e10 pre Ukraine (so hopefully any such "mistakes" now fixed).

Not sure about comparison sites.

They have never supported my rts tariff or my e10 for last decade.

And my parents wouldn't switch suppliers so just used their suppliers sites

kassy64

Whatever you do, make sure to look at tariffs available via money supermarket and money saving expert. Both of these currently have 'exclusive' tariffs that are significantly cheaper than via their own websites. I took a 14 month fix with British Gas via money supermarket that was not available as an existing BG customer. Similar standing charge rates but pence per kwh was 22p v 25p (I only use electricity, LPG for heating). Coming off a fixed tariff at 19p per kwh will still be a hefty increase in the unit rate.