Are You Overpaying for Energy and Broadband? How to Check Your Tariffs in 2026

Why Millions of UK Households Are Stuck on Expensive Tariffs

If you've moved house recently or haven't reviewed your bills in a while, there's a good chance you're paying more than you need to for energy and broadband. Research shows that many UK households unknowingly slip onto expensive standard variable tariffs (SVTs) when their initial contracts end, or simply never switch after moving to a new property.

The financial impact can be significant. As of January 2026, the energy price cap sits at £1,758 annually for a typical dual-fuel household paying by direct debit, but some fixed deals are up to 15% cheaper than this cap^[1]. Meanwhile, broadband prices vary considerably across different cities and providers, with the average monthly cost now around £39.50^[2].

How to Tell If Your Energy Tariff Has Rolled Onto Standard Rates

Standard variable tariffs are the default option that energy suppliers place customers on, and they're typically among the most expensive deals available. Here's how to check if you've been moved onto one:

Look at your latest energy bill for the tariff name. If it includes words like "standard", "variable", or "default", you're likely on an SVT. Your bill should also show the unit rates you're paying. As of March 2026, if you're paying close to the price cap rates (approximately 24.50p per kWh for electricity and 6.24p per kWh for gas), you're probably on a standard tariff.

The key indicator is whether your rates have increased recently without you agreeing to a new contract. When fixed-rate deals end, suppliers automatically move customers to their SVT unless you actively choose a different tariff.

Which Is More Expensive: Gas or Electricity in the UK?

Electricity is significantly more expensive than gas in the UK. Current rates show electricity averaging around 24.50p per kWh compared to gas at approximately 6.24p per kWh. This price difference explains why households with electric heating typically face higher bills than those using gas central heating.

Special Considerations for New Tenants

As a new tenant, you have the right to choose your energy supplier from day one. Many people assume they must stick with the previous tenant's supplier, but this isn't the case. Contact the current supplier to take over the account temporarily, then shop around for better deals. Make sure to take accurate meter readings on your move-in date to avoid paying for energy you didn't use.

Understanding Off-Peak Electricity Tariffs

Off-peak electricity tariffs can offer substantial savings if you can shift your energy usage to cheaper time periods. These tariffs typically offer lower rates during nighttime hours (usually 11pm to 7am) when demand on the national grid is lower.

Economy 7 and Economy 10 tariffs are the most common off-peak options. Economy 7 provides cheaper electricity for seven hours overnight, while Economy 10 offers ten hours of cheaper rates split between night and afternoon periods. These can work well if you have electric storage heaters, electric water heating, or can run appliances like washing machines and dishwashers during off-peak hours.

Broadband Pricing Across Major UK Cities

Broadband costs can vary depending on your location, the infrastructure available, and local competition between providers. Here's what you can expect to pay in three major cities:

Broadband Deals in Derby

Derby offers competitive broadband options with good coverage from major providers. Standard fibre broadband with speeds of 30-70 Mbps typically costs between £25 and £35 per month, while full fibre packages offering 100-150 Mbps range from £30 to £45 monthly^[3]. The city's mix of urban and suburban areas means most properties have access to superfast broadband.

Broadband Deals in Stoke-on-Trent

Stoke-on-Trent has similar pricing to Derby, with standard fibre packages available from £25 to £35 per month and full fibre options ranging from £30 to £45 monthly^[3]. The area has benefited from recent infrastructure investment, improving speeds and reliability across the city.

Broadband Deals in Southampton

As a major port city, Southampton enjoys extensive broadband coverage with competitive pricing. Standard fibre deals start from £25 to £35 per month, with full fibre services ranging from £30 to £45 monthly^[3]. The city's strong digital infrastructure means residents often have access to ultrafast packages from multiple providers.

Comparing Current Broadband and Energy Options

To help you understand what's available in these key cities, here's a comparison of some current deals:

Sources: Cheapest energy suppliers in the UK right now (March 2026), Broadband Deals in Derby | Internet in Derby | Fibre Compare^[4][5]

Energy Provider Comparisons: What to Look For

When comparing energy suppliers, focus on the total annual cost rather than just unit rates, as standing charges vary between providers. In early 2026, fixed-rate deals can be up to 15% cheaper than the price cap, though this depends on market conditions^[6].

Is Octopus Energy Cheaper Than British Gas?

Octopus Energy often provides more competitive rates than British Gas, with their standard variable tariff typically around £121 cheaper annually for medium energy users. However, both suppliers offer various tariffs, so it's worth comparing their current fixed and variable options based on your specific usage patterns.

Utility Warehouse vs Octopus Energy

Utility Warehouse takes a different approach by bundling energy with other services like broadband and mobile, which can lead to overall household savings. Octopus Energy focuses exclusively on energy supply, offering 100% renewable electricity and innovative tariffs like Agile (which tracks wholesale prices). The best choice depends on whether you prefer bundled services or want to choose each utility separately.

Many people find that switching providers can be daunting due to the paperwork and phone calls involved. Services like Join Lodo can handle the switching process for you, comparing deals and managing the transition without the usual hassle.

EDF Energy Reviews and Performance

EDF Energy consistently receives attention from consumer experts like Martin Lewis for their competitive tariffs and customer service standards. Recent reviews highlight their fixed-rate options and renewable energy commitments. However, as with any supplier, it's important to compare their current offers against other providers to ensure you're getting the best deal for your circumstances.

Making the Switch: What You Need to Know

Switching energy suppliers or broadband providers has become much simpler in recent years. For energy, you just need your current supplier details and a recent bill. The new supplier handles most of the process, including contacting your old provider and arranging the switch.

For broadband, check if you're still within a contract period to avoid exit fees. Most switches take around two weeks to complete, and you shouldn't experience any service interruption if the process is managed correctly.