Are you looking to find the best energy suppliers for your home or business but feeling unsure where to start? Choosing the right energy supplier can have a major impact on your household or business energy bills. By the end of this guide, you’ll be confident in selecting the energy supplier that best suits your needs.
Not all UK energy suppliers are the same. Each provider offers different tariffs, pricing structures, and customer service levels, meaning the best option depends on your specific usage and circumstances. Understanding these differences is essential when comparing energy suppliers.
With around 20–22 active UK energy suppliers regulated by Ofgem, knowing how to compare energy tariffs can help you secure the best energy deals and potentially save hundreds of pounds every year. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make the right choice.
At a Glance: Top Rated UK Suppliers 2026
- Best for Customer Service: Octopus Energy
- Best for Green Energy: Good Energy / Ecotricity
- Best for Large Households: British Gas
- Best for Prepayment: Utilita
Active Energy Suppliers in the UK
In total, there are approximately 20-22 ‘Active’ UK energy suppliers operating in the market today, all regulated by Ofgem (Office of Gas and Electricity Markets). The energy regulator ensures fair practices and protects consumers through measures like the energy price cap. Here is our comprehensive list of active suppliers:
| Energy Supplier | Status | No. of Customers | Best Known For |
| British Gas | Active | 8,000,000 | Comprehensive service, wide tariff range |
| Octopus Energy | Active | 7,700,000 | Innovative tariffs, excellent customer service |
| E.ON | Active | 5,600,000 | Dual fuel packages, renewable energy |
| EDF Energy | Active | 5,500,000 | Low-carbon electricity, nuclear power |
| OVO Energy | Active | 4,000,000 | 100% renewable electricity |
| Scottish Power | Active | 2,700,000 | 100% green energy commitment |
| Utilita Energy | Active | 800,000 | Prepayment meter specialists |
| Co-operative Energy | Active | 300,000 | Ethical provider, community focus |
| So Energy | Active | 300,000 | Renewable generation, transparent pricing |
| E Energy | Active | 300,000 | Competitive rates, simple tariffs |
| Good Energy | Active | 184,000 | 100% renewable sources |
| Utility Warehouse | Active | 1,000,000 | Multi-service provider |
| Ecotricity | Active | 200,000 | Britain’s original green energy supplier |
| Outfox the Market | Active | 100,000 | Transparent pricing, no exit fees |
| EBICo | Active | 60,000 | Social enterprise, fair pricing |
| Sainsbury’s Energy | Active | – | Nectar points integration |
| Fuse Energy | Active | New Supplier | Technology-driven approach |
| 100Green | Active | New Supplier | 100% renewable commitment |
| Home Energy | Active | New Supplier | Local community focus |
| Tulo Energy | Active | New Supplier | Flexible payment options |
Compare energy suppliers and switch to a cheaper deal today!
Use our FREE Ofgem-accredited energy comparison service to see how much you can save on your energy bills.
Energy Suppliers Who Have Ceased Trading
During the recent energy crisis, numerous energy companies ceased operations due to volatile wholesale prices and the energy price cap restrictions. Understanding this history helps explain the current market landscape. Here’s a comprehensive list of suppliers that are no longer trading:
| Energy Supplier | Status | New Supplier | No. of Customers Affected |
| Bulb Energy | Ceased Trading | Octopus Energy | 1,500,000 |
| Shell Energy | Ceased Trading | Octopus Energy | 1,300,000 |
| Avro Energy | Ceased Trading | Octopus Energy | 580,000 |
| Green Network Energy | Ceased Trading | EDF Energy | 360,000 |
| People’s Energy | Ceased Trading | British Gas | 350,000 |
| Boost Energy | Ceased Trading | OVO Energy | 350,000 |
| Spark Energy | Ceased Trading | OVO Energy | 290,000 |
| Green | Ceased Trading | Shell Energy | 255,000 |
| Pure Planet | Ceased Trading | Shell Energy | 235,000 |
| Flow Energy | Ceased Trading | Octopus Energy | 230,000 |
| Utility Point | Ceased Trading | EDF Energy | 220,000 |
| Green Star Energy | Ceased Trading | Shell Energy | 200,000 |
| iSupply Energy | Ceased Trading | EDF Energy | 190,000 |
| Igloo Energy | Ceased Trading | E.ON Next | 179,000 |
| Bristol Energy | Ceased Trading | British Gas | 176,000 |
| Together Energy | Ceased Trading | British Gas | 176,000 |
| TOTO Energy | Ceased Trading | EDF Energy | 134,000 |
| Tonik Energy | Ceased Trading | Scottish Power | 130,000 |
| Robin Hood Energy | Ceased Trading | British Gas | 112,000 |
| Extra Energy | Ceased Trading | Scottish Power | 108,000 |
| IRESA Limited | Ceased Trading | Octopus Energy | 95,000 |
| Rebel Energy | Ceased Trading | British Gas | 90,000 |
| PFP Energy | Ceased Trading | British Gas | 82,000 |
| Yorkshire Energy | Ceased Trading | Scottish Power | 74,000 |
| Engie | Ceased Trading | Octopus Energy | 70,000 |
| Orbit Energy | Ceased Trading | Scottish Power | 65,000 |
| M&S Energy | Ceased Trading | Octopus Energy | 60,000 |
| Simplicity Energy | Ceased Trading | British Gas | 50,000 |
| Symbio Energy | Ceased Trading | E.ON Next | 48,000 |
| One Select | Ceased Trading | Together Energy | 36,000 |
| Our Power | Ceased Trading | Utilita | 31,000 |
| Neon Reef | Ceased Trading | British Gas | 30,000 |
| Eversmart Energy | Ceased Trading | Utilita | 29,000 |
| Colorado Energy | Ceased Trading | Shell Energy | 15,000 |
| Tomato Energy | Ceased Trading | British Gas | 12,000 |
| Zog Energy | Ceased Trading | EDF Energy | 11,700 |
| Daligas | Ceased Trading | Shell Energy | 9,000 |
| GnERGY | Ceased Trading | Bulb Energy | 9,000 |
This consolidation has created a more stable energy market, though it has reduced consumer choice. The remaining different energy suppliers are generally more financially robust and better equipped to handle market volatility.
How to Compare Energy Suppliers
Understand Your Usage
Before comparing, analyze your consumption:
- Review 12 months of bills for accurate annual usage
- Note electricity and gas consumption in kWh
- Check your meter type (standard, smart, or prepayment)
- Identify seasonal variations
Compare Tariff Types
Fixed-Rate Tariffs lock in prices for 12-24 months, providing budget certainty and protection against price rises, though may include exit fees of £30-60 per fuel.
Variable Tariffs follow market conditions and the energy price cap, offering flexibility with no exit fees but less price certainty.
Standard Variable Tariffs are typically most expensive. If you haven’t switched recently, you could save £200-400 annually by comparing deals.
Consider Key Factors
Energy Price Cap: Ofgem sets quarterly price caps protecting consumers, but comparing suppliers often reveals cheaper options below the cap.
Dual Fuel Discounts: Getting both gas and electricity from one supplier typically saves £30-50 annually with simplified billing.
Payment Methods: Direct debit usually offers lowest rates with automatic monthly payments and additional discounts.
Standing Charges: Fixed daily fees (25p-60p per fuel) cover meter maintenance and grid costs. Some suppliers offer zero standing charge with higher unit rates.
How to Switch Energy Supplier
The energy switch guarantee ensures smooth switching within 21 days:
- Compare deals using comparison services
- Check current contract for end dates and exit fees
- Gather information: address, current supplier details, account number, meter readings
- Apply online – your new supplier handles everything
- 14-day cooling-off period allows penalty-free cancellation
- Submit meter readings on switch date for accurate billing
- Switch completes within 21 days with continuous supply
You’re never disconnected during switching, and the process only changes billing arrangements.
Green Energy Options
Growing numbers prioritize renewable energy:
100% Renewable Electricity suppliers like Octopus Energy, Good Energy, and Ecotricity offer power from wind, solar, and hydro sources backed by REGO certificates.
Carbon-Neutral Gas options include biogas from waste materials and carbon offsetting schemes.
When evaluating green credentials, consider fuel mix transparency, investment in new renewables, and independent verification.
Understanding Energy Bills
Unit Rate: Price per kWh of energy consumed, varying by supplier, tariff, and payment method.
Standing Charge: Fixed daily fee covering infrastructure and meter costs.
VAT: 5% applied to domestic energy bills.
Smart Meters provide automatic readings, real-time usage monitoring, and accurate billing without estimates.
Energy Saving Tips
Reduce bills regardless of supplier:
- Insulation: Loft insulation saves £355 annually, cavity wall £385 annually
- Heating controls: Reduce thermostat by 1°C saves £145 annually
- Efficient appliances: LED lighting saves £50+ annually
- Behavioral changes: Shorter showers, full washing loads, unplugging standby devices saves £65 annually
Business Energy Considerations
Business energy differs from domestic supply with higher consumption, longer contracts (1-5 years), bespoke pricing, and negotiable rates. Start procurement 6-9 months before contract ends to avoid expensive auto-renewals. Compare business electricity and business gas tariffs to find the best deals for your company.
Common Questions
When to switch? When contracts end, on expensive standard tariffs, or finding significantly cheaper deals.
Can I switch with debt? Usually possible if owing under £500 on prepayment meters; larger debts may need payment plans.
How much can I save? Typically £200-400 annually switching from standard variable to competitive fixed tariffs.
Will I be cut off? Never. The switch guarantee ensures continuous supply throughout.
Why Choose Energy Solutions for Your Energy Comparison?
At Energy Solutions, we provide expert guidance to help you navigate the UK energy market:
Comprehensive Market Coverage
- Access to all major UK energy suppliers
- Independent comparison service
- Both domestic and business energy options
Expert Guidance
- Energy expert team available for advice
- Free, impartial price comparison
- Personalized recommendations based on your energy usage
Simple Switching
- Handle the entire switch process
- No direct contact with old energy provider needed
- Track switch progress
Ongoing Support
- Contract end date reminders
- Regular market updates
- Alerts when better energy deals available
Transparent Service
- No hidden fees
- Clear comparison results
- Honest about savings potential
Get Started Today
Don’t overpay for your gas and electricity. Use our comparison service to:
- Compare energy suppliers in minutes
- Find the cheapest energy for your needs
- Switch to a better deal hassle-free
- Save £200-400 annually on energy bills
Start your energy comparison now at Energy Solutions and take control of your energy costs. Whether you’re looking for cheap energy deals, green energy options, or simply want to pay less, we’ll help you find the best energy supplier for your home or business.
Compare Energy Now and start saving today!
UK Energy Supplier FAQs
Who is the best energy supplier in the UK?
Octopus Energy is the top-rated supplier, achieving the highest overall score of 74% in Which?’s 2025 survey, with nearly nine in 10 customers satisfied and willing to recommend it NimbleFins Octopus Energy. Octopus has overtaken British Gas as the UK’s largest energy provider with 24.6% market share, and maintains an impressive 4.8-star Trustpilot rating Expert Reviews. The company excels in customer service, innovation (including EV tariffs and solar deals), and has over 2,000 complaints per 100,000 customers but resolves issues efficiently The Eco Experts. Octopus also offers 100% renewable electricity and consistently competitive pricing.
Is Octopus cheaper than British Gas?
Yes, Octopus Energy typically offers better value. Octopus consistently prices its tariffs below the energy price cap and sets its standing charges significantly lower than British Gas. While both companies’ prices vary by tariff and region, Octopus is known for innovative deals that can save money, especially for customers with smart meters, electric vehicles, or solar panels. British Gas tends to charge closer to the maximum price cap limits. However, always compare current tariffs using independent comparison tools, as prices change regularly.
Which energy source is best for the UK?
The UK needs a diverse energy mix for reliable, affordable, and clean power. Renewables reached a record 47% of UK electricity generation in 2025, overtaking gas at 28% and nuclear at 11% Carbon Brief. Wind and solar are essential for meeting net-zero targets, but they’re intermittent. Nuclear provides reliable baseload power, though capacity fell to a 50-year low in 2025 due to outages Carbon Brief. The optimal strategy combines renewable energy for sustainability, nuclear for consistent supply, and gas for flexible backup during low wind and solar periods. Emerging technologies like Small Modular Reactors also show promise.
Is OVO the worst energy supplier in the UK?
OVO ranks among the poorest performers. OVO received the lowest customer satisfaction score of 56% in Which?’s 2025 survey, with customers expressing strong dissatisfaction regarding value for money and communication NimbleFinsOctopus Energy. However, Scottish Power scored only marginally better with 59%, while British Gas, Scottish Power, OVO and So Energy all scored below 60% overall NimbleFins. Common OVO complaints include billing issues, high direct debits, and slow problem resolution. While OVO does score well for supporting vulnerable customers, its overall performance places it at the bottom alongside other major suppliers.
Which energy supplier has the most complaints?
Large suppliers including British Gas, OVO and Octopus have the highest complaint rates, with over 1,400-2,000 complaints per 100,000 customer accounts The Eco Experts. Large suppliers average around 1,525 complaints per 100,000 customers, compared to just 261 for small-sized companies. British Gas performed poorly for both the volume of complaints received in the first half of 2024 and for how efficiently it resolved them. In contrast, smaller suppliers like Outfox, Green Energy UK E and Ecotricity had the lowest rates with under 230 complaints per 100,000 customers. The most common complaints across all suppliers relate to billing and meter readings.
