Finding the right energy plan can be hard work. With the UK energy market constantly shifting, staying on top of the latest energy deals is about more than just a quick switch. It’s about long-term peace of mind.
As we move through 2026, the landscape is changing again. From the recent January price cap update to the upcoming levy cut in April, there’s never been a more important time to understand how to find the best energy plan for your specific needs.
We’re all about helping you take control of your energy, so let’s look at how you can secure a great deal and save this year.
What is an energy plan and why does it matter?
Put simply, an energy plan is the contract between you and your supplier that sets how much you pay for the electricity and gas you use. It is made up of two main parts:
Unit rate: What you pay for every kilowatt-hour (kWh) of energy you use.
Standing charge: A fixed daily fee that covers the cost of supplying energy to your home, regardless of how much you use.
Choosing the right plan matters because the best option isn't the same for everyone. A great energy deal for one person in a flat might be a poor choice for a large family with an electric vehicle.
By matching your plan to your lifestyle, you can avoid overpaying and ensure you’re supporting a more sustainable future.
Beyond the price cap: Why now is the time to check your energy tariff.
For the last few years, many of us have relied on the Ofgem price cap to keep our bills in check. However, the price cap means that if you’re on a standard variable tariff. then the price you pay can, and does, change every three months.
As of January 2026, the price cap sits at £1,758 per year for a typical household. While a fall is predicted for April 2026 because the government is moving certain green levies off energy bills and into general taxation, staying on a variable plan means you are at the mercy of market changes.
By checking your energy tariff now, you can decide whether to wait for the April drop or lock in a fixed energy deal 2026 has to offer today. Fixing your rate now provides budget certainty, protecting you from any unexpected wholesale price spikes later in the year.
Identifying how much energy you use: Which are you?
To find the most effective energy tariffs 2026 provides, you first need to know how you use power. Most UK households fall into one of three categories:
The heavy user.
If you have a busy house, children who often leave the lights on, or an electric car plugged in overnight, you are a high-energy user. For you, the unit rate is the most important factor. Even a few pence difference per kWh can add up to hundreds of pounds over a year.
Best plan type: Look for specialist electric vehicle tariffs or fixed deals with the lowest possible unit rates.
The low and steady user.
If you live alone or in a well-insulated modern flat, your actual energy use might be quite low. In this case, the standing charge often makes up a larger chunk of your bill.
Best plan type: Look for tariffs with competitive standing charges, or tracker style plans that offer a discount against the price cap.
The work from home professional.
If your home is also your office, your energy use is high during the day when prices are traditionally higher.
Best plan type: Consider a time of use tariff. These offer cheaper rates during specific windows, allowing you to run appliances like dishwashers or washing machines when it is most cost-effective.
12 months vs. 18 months: Securing your budget through 2027.
When browsing energy deals, you will likely see options to fix for different lengths of time.
12-month fix: This is the most common choice. It is great for those who want to see where the market is a year from now. It protects you through the high-usage winter months but gives you the flexibility to shop around again next season.
18-month fix: This is becoming increasingly popular in 2026. An 18-month deal secures your price through two winters. If you value total budget stability and want to stop worrying about Price Cap announcements for a while, this is often a smart move.
We often have tailored 12 and 18-month tariffs designed to beat the price cap, giving you that extra bit of satisfaction from knowing you have saved.
The April 2026 levy cut: Why fixing now doesn't mean missing out.
One of the biggest talking points in the energy deal 2026 market is the government's autumn budget announcement. From 1 April 2026, about £150 is being cut from typical annual bills by removing certain levies from electricity unit rates.
You might be wondering if you will miss out on that April saving if you fix your energy now.
The good news is that we have committed to passing on these savings to our customers. Most major suppliers are expected to adjust their fixed rates or apply the government-mandated cuts even to those already on a fix. This means you can lock in the security of a fixed rate today without the fear of missing out on the April price drop.
Actionable checklist: 4 steps to shop and switch like an expert.
Ready to find your best deal? Follow this simple checklist:
Check your annual consumption: Look at your latest bill for your energy use in kWh. This is the only way to get an accurate quote.
Compare the total cost: Do not just look at the monthly Direct Debit. Look at the estimated annual cost to see the true value of the deal.
Look for exit fees: Some of the cheapest energy tariffs 2026 offers come with exit fees. If you think you might move house or want to switch again soon, look for an option with no exit fees, like our Next Smart Saver.
Verify the extras: Does the supplier offer 100% renewable electricity as standard? We do on our renewable tariffs. Do they have a highly-rated app? These elements make managing your energy much easier.
Get the best energy deal in 2026.
Finding the best energy deal in 2026 doesn't have to be a headache. By understanding your home's energy use and looking ahead to the upcoming April levy changes, you can choose a plan that offers both value and stability.
Whether you decide to lock in a fixed rate for peace of mind or stay flexible with a tracker tariff, the most important step is to stay proactive. We’re here to help you navigate these choices and find a sustainable, cost-effective way to power your home through this year and beyond.