Our variable tariff prices.
Check out the prices in your area for our Next Flex tariff, based on whether you have a single rate or Economy 7 electricity meter.
Our Next Flex prices.
Effective from 1 July 2026.
Our Next Flex prices for Economy 7 customers.
Effective from 1 July 2026.
Understanding variable electricity and gas tariffs.
What is a variable tariff?
A variable tariff, also known as a standard variable tariff (SVT), is a flexible energy contract where electricity or gas prices and standing charges vary based on wholesale market fluctuations.
Bills can rise or fall depending on your energy use and the market changes. These open-ended contracts offer easier switching but expose you to market volatility.
In the UK, the government sets a price cap on standard variable tariffs, reviewed in April, July, October, and January. Despite the cap, variable tariffs may be costlier than fixed ones during periods of high wholesale energy prices.
Here are some of the pros and cons of variable energy tariffs:
Pros:
Open-ended contracts with no fixed end date or long term commitment.
Flexibility to switch suppliers or change tariffs easily.
No exit fees.
Cons:
Prices can fluctuate depending on the wholesale market.
It may be more expensive than fixed tariffs, especially in times of high wholesale energy prices.
No certainty of price over the longer term
If you are considering switching to a variable energy tariff, it is important to do your homework and shop around for the best deal. You should also consider your energy use patterns and how they might be affected by price fluctuations.
What's the difference between variable and fixed energy tariffs?
Variable and fixed energy tariffs are two types of energy contracts that offer different levels of price certainty and flexibility.
Variable energy tariffs allow your energy supplier to charge you the current market price for energy, which can fluctuate depending on various factors, such as the cost of wholesale energy, exchange rates, and global economic conditions. This means your energy bills could go up or down depending on the market conditions rather than just on how much you use.
On the other hand, fixed energy tariffs offer a guaranteed price for energy for a set time, typically 12 or 24 months. This means that the price you pay for each unit of energy will remain the same for the duration of your contract, regardless of changes in the wholesale energy market. But remember, the more energy you use, the bigger your bill will be.
Fixed tariffs vs variable tariffs.
Confused about what type of energy tariff to choose? Let's break down the pros and cons of Fixed tariffs vs. Variable tariffs.
Which type of tariff is right for you?
The best type of tariff for you will depend on your circumstances and preferences. Suppose you are comfortable with the risk of your energy bills going up. In that case, a variable tariff may be a good option for you. However, if you prefer certainty and want to avoid the possibility of unexpected price increases, a fixed tariff may be a better choice.
Here are some factors to consider when choosing between a variable and fixed energy tariff.
Your risk tolerance
Are you comfortable with the risk of your energy bills going up?
Your energy use patterns
Do you have a relatively stable energy use pattern?
Your budget
Are you looking for the lowest possible energy bills?
Your prediction of energy prices
Do you think that energy prices are likely to rise or fall in the future?
It's always a good idea to compare prices from different energy suppliers before choosing a tariff. You can use price comparison websites to compare tariffs and find the best deal for you.
Economy 7 and Economy 10 tariffs.
Economy 7 and Economy 10 are time of use (TOU) tariffs that offer cheaper electricity rates during off-peak hours and higher rates during peak hours. They are typically used by households that are happy to use a large proportion of their electricity at night.
Economy 7.
Economy 7 offers 7 hours of cheaper electricity, typically between midnight and 7am. The rest of the day, electricity is charged at a higher rate.
Economy 10.
Economy 10 offers 10 hours of cheaper electricity, for example, between 1pm and 4pm, 8pm to 12am and 4am to 7am. The rest of the day, electricity is charged at a higher rate.
Who is Economy 7 and Economy 10 suitable for?
Economy 7 and Economy 10 tariffs are a good option if you:
Use a large proportion of their energy during the off-peak hours
Have storage appliances such as a hot water tank or a storage heater.
Are willing to switch your energy consumption to the off-peak hours.
What are the benefits of Economy 7 and Economy 10 tariffs?
The main benefits of Economy 7 and Economy 10 tariffs are that they can help you reduce your energy bills. They can also help you reduce your carbon footprint, as you will use less electricity during peak hours when the grid is under more strain.
What are the drawbacks of Economy 7 and Economy 10 tariffs?
The main drawback of Economy 7 and Economy 10 tariffs is that they can be more expensive than standard tariffs if you use most of your energy during peak hours. They can also be inconvenient if you do not have storage heaters or similar. Additionally, you may need to change your habits to make the most of these tariffs, and that may not suit everyone.
How to switch to Economy 7 or Economy 10?
Do you think Economy 7 or Economy 10 tariffs are right for you? In that case, you can switch tariffs by contacting your energy supplier. And we can help you with that.
You will need a meter that can handle multiple rates. Some energy suppliers offer dual-rate meters, which can automatically switch between the off-peak and peak rates. Other energy suppliers require you to manually change your appliances between the two rates.
Tips for making the most of Economy 7 and Economy 10 tariffs.
Here are a few tips for making the most of Economy 7 and Economy 10 tariffs:
Use electricity-hungry appliances during off-peak hours. This includes washing machines, dishwashers, tumble dryers, and electric showers.
Make sure your appliances don’t use any unnecessary electricity by turning them off at the plug.
Use a timer or smart plug to automatically switch appliances off when not in use. This will help you to avoid wasting energy during peak hours.
Invest in a storage heater. This type of heater stores heat during off-peak hours and releases it during peak hours.
Switch to a dual-rate meter if possible. This will automatically switch between the off-peak and peak rates, so you don't have to worry about manually switching your appliances.
By following these tips, you can make the most of Economy 7 and Economy 10 tariffs.
Why does the price of electricity vary from region to region?
There are several reasons for regional variations in energy tariffs:
Distribution Network Costs.
Each of the UK's six electricity distribution network operators (DNOs) is responsible for maintaining and operating the electricity distribution network in their region. These network costs, which include the cost of maintaining and upgrading their part of the network infrastructure, are part of the price of your energy tariff.
As a result, the cost of electricity distribution varies by region, which is reflected in the energy tariffs offered by suppliers.
Fuel Mix and Generation Costs.
The cost of generating electricity varies depending on the fuel mix used in different regions. For instance, regions with a higher reliance on renewable energy sources like wind or solar power may have lower generation costs than regions that rely more heavily on fossil fuels like gas or coal.
These differences in generation costs ultimately influence the overall cost of electricity, and this difference is reflected in energy tariffs.
Competition and Supply Dynamics.
The level of competition among energy suppliers and the supply dynamics in different regions can also contribute to regional variations in energy tariffs.
Regions with higher levels of competition may result in more competitive tariffs. In contrast, regions with fewer suppliers or a more concentrated market may have higher tariffs.
Regulatory Factors.
Government regulations and policies can also play a role in shaping regional variations in energy tariffs. For example, the UK's energy market reforms have introduced legislation designed to help ensure the security of the electricity supply at the least cost to consumers.
This can impact distribution costs and ultimately influence energy tariffs across different regions.
Consumer Habits and Demand Patterns.
Consumers' energy consumption patterns and habits can also contribute to regional tariff variations. For instance, regions with higher average household energy consumption may have slightly higher tariffs than regions with lower average consumption.
Understanding these factors can help consumers make informed decisions about their energy tariffs and identify the best options for their needs and circumstances.
Your tariff prices FAQs.
What is a variable tariff?
A variable tariff - or Standard Variable Tariff (SVT) is an energy contract where the price of a unit of energy and the standing charge can change depending on factors such as the wholesale energy market.
This is in contrast to a fixed energy tariff, where the price of a unit of energy is set for the contract period.
Are there any advantages of a variable tariff?
If your energy consumption is stable, you like the freedom and flexibility of no minimum contract, and you want to avoid exit fees, then a Standard Variable Tariff could be for you.
What are the advantages of a fixed tariff?
Fixed tariffs are more suitable if you prefer a consistent price for your energy or if you think the price of the Standard Variable Tariff could go higher than the fixed one.
What are Economy 7 & Economy 10 Tariffs?
Economy 7 and Economy 10 are time of use (TOU) tariffs that offer different unit rates for electricity depending on the time of day.
What are the hours for Economy 7 and Economy 10?
Economy 7 usually offers the cheapest unit rates between midnight and 7am. Economy 10 offers cheaper unit rates, for example, between 10am and 3pm and 7pm and midnight. The exact hours will depend on where you live and your energy supplier. The rest of the day, both tariffs charge higher unit rates.
Still, you can make savings if you use a lot of electricity at night. Meanwhile, Economy 10 tariffs are suitable for households with peak and off-peak electricity usage.
Do I need a special meter to use Economy 7 (or 10)?
Yes. You will need a meter that can charge more than one rate, such as an Economy 7 meter. This is to switch between the two rates and provide an accurate bill.
How do I switch energy suppliers?
Switching is straightforward if you've done your homework and decided to change your supplier. For example, with us, you can get a quote in seconds.
Then, once you're happy with the quote and want to move to us, you'll set up your Direct Debit. Don't worry about telling your current energy supplier. We'll do that for you. We'll provide you with a switchover date, usually within 21 days of your request. Then, come the day, you provide us with your meter readings, and the job is done! Although it's always worth keeping an eye on things for a few days to make sure. Told you it was simple.
What tariffs do E.ON Next offer?
We offer a selection of variable and fixed tariffs suited to different customer needs and preferences.
Which tariff you choose is ultimately down to you and your preferences. Are you looking for some predictability and stability in your energy bills? Then, a fixed tariff will probably be the right one for you.
However, maybe you don't want to be tied down for 12 or 24 months to a single price for your energy. You may want more flexibility and be free to change when it suits you, even if that may mean paying a little more every month. In which case, the standard variable tariff is more suitable.
But whatever you're after, we're sure we'll have a tariff suited to your needs. Whether it's price stability, discounted rates, greater flexibility, or 100% renewable electricity, our tariffs have something to offer everyone. Why not find out more? Just enter your postcode and see what's available to you.