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OCTOPUS ENERGY TARIFFS 2024/2025
Are you fed up with a bland, beige energy supplier that offers mediocre customer service and doesn’t fight change? If so, I highly recommend switching to Octopus Energy. I switched to Octopus six years ago and haven’t regretted it.
The energy market needs to change and we need companies like Octopus Energy to help us fight for it. They champion their customers and look for ways to save them money and help the planet.👏
Let me tell you about Octopus Energy tariffs and how they could help you save money on your energy bills going into 2025. Everyone’s home energy needs differ, and Octopus Energy tariffs cover all bases. I’ll go toe-to-toe comparing each Octopus Energy tariff so you can decide what is best for you and your home energy needs.
If you’re paying price cap rates with any supplier for your gas, your electricity, or both – you’ll save money if you switch to Octopus – Octopus Energy.
In this Octopus Energy tariff review, I will show you how switching to Octopus Energy can help you save money on your energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint.
I am a mum to three school-age daughters and have become hyper-focused on my energy bills. Energy now feels like a luxury commodity, and this has made me more determined than ever to try to lower my bills and get the best value for money.
I have been a happy Octopus Energy customer for 6 years. Switching suppliers helped me control my energy bills. Octopus Energy cares about its customers and constantly fights government policy to improve things.
Written by Sarah Chambers
Why switch to Octopus Energy?
I would recommend switching to Octopus Energy because they flippin’ well care about their customers and the environment. Yes, they have won oodles of awards but that is a by-product of committing to their customers. They don’t want to see a cliff edge in pricing where some customers can’t afford to pay for energy and they lobby the government relentlessly asking for change.
- The UK’s Largest Domestic Electricity Supplier
- Award Winning Service
- Fighting relentlessly for change so we can have a cheaper, greener future.
- Octopus Energy is the only energy supplier Martin Lewis recommends right now for a fixed tariff with no exit fees.
Updated 9th December 2024
Understand Octopus Energy Tariffs 2024/2025.
Don’t panic about picking the wrong Octopus tariff. Octopus has a multitude of tariffs available. However, you can’t go wrong with Octopus Energy because there are no exit fees on any of their tariffs, so you won’t get stuck paying too much. If a better Octopus deal comes up, you can switch to it. It just takes a quick email or phone call, and it’s done. Sometimes, you’ve even got the option to switch tariffs on your Octopus dashboard.
All Octopus tariffs are available to new and existing customers so there’s no qualifying period for the best Octopus deals. The current Octopus 12-month fixed is cheaper than the January 2025 Energy Price Cap and has no exit fees.
If you are a new Octopus customer, finding the best energy deal and deciding whether to take an Octopus Energy fixed tariff, stick with an Octopus flexible tariff, or move to one of their smart tariffs can seem slightly overwhelming, but I am here to help. I will give you an overview of the available Octopus tariffs and explain how they could help you save money on your bill.
What Octopus Energy Tariffs are available to new customers switching suppliers in 2024?
When you switch from your existing energy supplier to Octopus Energy as a new customer, you choose one of two tariffs;
- Octopus Energy Flexible Tariff – The price will change every 3 months and follows the Energy Price Cap.
- Octopus Energy 12 Months Fixed Tariff. – The price is locked in for 12 months with no exit fees
The Octopus 12-month Fixed Tariff is cheaper than the Flexible tariff, which follows the Energy Price Cap.
Neither of these tariffs has an exit fee, so there’s no need to worry about being trapped on a tariff that excludes you from taking a cheaper deal. If prices drop or a new tariff becomes more suitable to your home energy needs, you can swap tariffs.
As a new Octopus Energy customer choosing between the fixed or flexible tariff the Octopus Flexible Tariff is a great choice for those who value flexibility. With no fixed contract or exit fees, hassle-free, you can switch your tariff whenever you like. Right now, the fixed rate is cheaper, but whether you go fixed or flexible, Octopus ensures you’ll never be locked into overpaying — no tentacles holding you down here! Yet I’ve been a customer since 2018 so they must be doing something right!
Do you need a smart meter to switch to Octopus Energy?
No, you don’t need a smart meter to switch to Octopus Energy as a new customer. The Octopus 12-month fixed and flexible tariffs do not require customers to have a smart meter.
- Once your switch to Octopus Energy is complete, you can move to a smart tariff if you have a smart meter.
- If you consider installing a smart metre, Octopus has several innovative tariffs.
Is Octopus Energy offering a fixed tariff for new customers?
Yes, Octopus Energy has a fixed tariff with no exit fees. It is open to new and existing customers. Prices are ring-fenced for a whopping 12 months providing stability and peace of mind as we head into winter and leap into 2025.
The Octopus 15-month fixed tariff was withdrawn on October 1st and became a cheaper 12-month fixed tariff. There have been a few price changes, but the Octopus 12-month fixed is now approximately 5.2% less than the January 2025 Energy Price Cap!
Are there any exit fees on the Octopus 12-month fixed tariff?
There are no exit fees on the Octopus 12-month fixed tariff, so you won’t get trapped overpaying for your energy if prices drop in 2025. With other suppliers, the longer the fixed term, the higher the exit fees imposed. This doesn’t apply to Octopus Energy.
Being locked into a tariff when everyone else is shouting about declining prices would be a big concern. There’s no need to worry about the Octopus Energy 12-month fixed tariff you can leave any time, the fixed contract gives you protection, and the price won’t change for 12 months.
Should I wait to switch to the Octopus Fixed tariff? Are prices going down?
I would take the Octopus Fixed tariff now if your preference is you are just considering the Octopus Energy Fixed or the Octopus Flexible tariff.
The Energy Price Cap will rise by 1.2% in January 2025, and some analysts predict a further 2- 3% increase in April 2025. If these predictions are correct, the current Octopus Energy 12-month fixed tariff will be cheaper than the Energy Price Cap (Flexible tariff) for the next year.
- When you switch to Octopus Energy as a new customer, you can use a £50 switching offer combined with the Octopus Fixed tariff. (The £50 new customer credit is an instant 2.9% off the January 2025 Energy Price Cap.)
- Combining the Octopus Fixed tariff (roughly 5.2% below the January Price Cap) with the £50 offer will bring your rate to approximately 8.1% below the January 2025 Energy Price Cap based on typical use.
It is important to remember that the Energy Price Cap has no impact on the fixed rate prices on offer now. This is because the flexible rate is based on the past 3 months of energy prices and is set by Ogem each quarter. The fixed rates currently offered by Octopus Energy are based on today’s wholesale energy prices and they aren’t going down at the moment.
With no exit fee on the Octopus Energy 12-month fixed tariff, both new and existing customers can lock in a deal for 2025 that is currently cheaper than any predictions for the Energy Price Cap for the next 12 months. If wholesale prices change and a cheaper fixed tariff becomes available you can just move over to that with no penalty.
Is it worth fixing my Octopus tariff?
Yes, if you aren’t considering a smart tariff, the Octopus 12-month fixed tariff is worth considering. It offers a fixed discounted rate compared to the January 2025 Energy Price Cap, and the icing on the cake is no exit fee.
Suppose we look at an Octopus quote for my home in South Wales. I have input typical use figures based on an average home.
- The Octopus 12-month fixed tariff is currently £1,670.
- The Flexible tariff is currently £1,737 based on typical use. (This will rise in January 2025)
- I would potentially save over £67 by fixing my Octopus tariff now. This can be combined with the £50 Octopus Energy new customer switch offer.
- Analysts predicted that the energy price cap would not fall below £1700 for the next 12 months, but in recent weeks, that’s changed. There are varying opinions.
- Some Analysts are now predicting a 2%-3% rise in April 2025, followed by a 2-3% reduction in July 2025.
If you need a good budget plan, enjoy knowing exactly what’s coming, and like locking in a deal before prices change, a fixed tariff might be perfect for you. You won’t get trapped paying too much as there are NO exit fees. Think of it like a Welsh weather forecast: It might still be raining, but at least it’s not tamping it down! (Energy prices are still much higher than three years ago.)
For every £100 spent before the 1st of January 2025, this is how much you could pay going into 2025.
Just for ease of comparison I have made this chart. For every £100 spent before the 1st of January 2025, this is approximately how much you will pay on the Octopus Fixed v Octopus Flexible tariff based on predicted prices.
I am using the EDF Price Cap Forcast Sevrive figures from the 25th of November 2024 which predicts a 3% increase in April 2025 and a 3% reduction in July 2025. These are also the figures Martin Lewis is using.
Just remember these predictions will most likely change and they are just someone’s opinion. Anything could happen in the world to change these predictions.
I like the Octopus no-exit fee policy as you won’t get locked in paying too much whatever happens!
In summary, for both new and existing customers the Octopus Energy 12-month fixed tariff could save you money compared to staying on the Octopus Flexible tariff based on the energy price cap from the 12 months. If it doesn’t you and prices drop you can leave as you are not locked into a contract with painful exit fees.
The Octopus Energy Fixed tariff offers valuable price protection, and peace of mind, allowing you to budget and plan your household expenses with confidence, without worrying about suddenly facing a spike in your energy bills.
How can I switch to Octopus Energy in 2024 as a new customer?
Step 1 – Get an online quote from Octopus Energy.
The easiest way to get a quote to switch to Octopus Energy is via the Octopus website.
Octopus will ask you three simple questions, two of which are multiple-choice.
- Your address.
- What energy do you need? (Gas and electric or gas only.)
- How much energy do you use? (You can choose either low, medium or high if you don’t know your exact usage.)
Step 2 – Pick an Octopus Tariff.
You’ll be offered either;
- Octopus Energy Flexible tariff – variable tariff.
- Octopus Energy 12 months fixed – This is currently the cheapest option with no exit fees.
Here is an example of an Octopus Energy dual fuel tariff quote from 9th December 2024. These tariffs are available today when you switch to Octopus Energy as a new customer.
- The Octopus quote below is based on approximate usage for a medium household using a combination of gas and electricity.
- Your monthly direct debit payment will vary depending on your usage and geographical location region.
Step 3 – Switch to Octopus Energy.
If you are happy with your Octopus quote complete the questions which will take you through the signup procedure. (Don’t forget to use my Octopus referral link when you switch to get £50 credit. I’ll also get £50 credit, so thank you so much if you do use the link.)
That’s all done! You will receive a confirmation email from Octopus Energy which includes your tariff details, a welcome message, and any terms and conditions. (There are no exit fees!)
How to get £50 credit switching to Octopus Energy.
Join the Octopus Energy family using my 2024 referral code tough-deer-484, and they’ll drop a cool £50 credit into your account—no tentacles required! Just tap to switch, and your £50 bonus will swim its way to you within about 4 weeks. Easy peasy!
I’ve saved hundreds of pounds on my energy bill since switching. I have an Electric Vehicle but anyone can save money with Octopus Energy. They’d rather pay customers to use energy when it’s windy than let it go to waste!
Octopus won’t lure you in with a new customer-only offer. (No sharks here!) Switching to Octopus means friendlier service and a sustainable future. I’ve seen a complete contrast as an ex-British Gas customer.
- Ofgem has proposed allowing companies to hide or even bar their best deals from loyal customers
- Octopus disagrees and has pledged that its best and lowest tariffs will be available to existing customers, not just new ones.
How long does it take to get my £50 credit when I switch to Octopus using a referral link?
You’ll get your £50 credit after you have made your first direct debit payment. Sometimes it takes a couple of days to appear in your account balance.
By following the link and answering a few quick questions you will get a quote. Select to have the quote on screen rather than send it to you by email. (You may miss out on the £50 credit if your sign-up isn’t tracked.) If you are happy with the quote, you can confirm if you wish to complete the switch.
How long does it typically take to switch to Octopus Energy?
Once you’ve clicked to switch you should be an Octopus Energy customer within 5 days although sometimes it could take as little as 3 days.
Will my energy supply be disrupted when I switch to Octopus Energy?
When I switched to Octopus Energy from British Gas I had amazing communication with Octopus Energy. They took care of it all, it was a hassle-free experience and you won’t see any change or disruption to your supply.
All you need to do is pick your Octopus Energy tariff, supply your meter readings and cancel your direct debit after your final bill has been settled.
I’ve done lots of videos about switching to Octopus Energy on TikTok that may help.
Is the Octopus Flexible tariff the cheapest Octopus tariff?
Most customers are on the Octopus flexible tariff, which is the variable rate. However, the Octopus Flexible tariff is no longer the cheapest Octopus tradional tariff. The Octopus Flexible tariff will rise again by 1.2% on the 1st of January 2025 and some analysts are predicting a further increase in April 2025
In September Octopus Energy sent emails to millions of its customers on the Octopus flexible tariff advising them they could save money by taking the Octopus 12-month fixed tariff. This advice applies now more than ever with winter truly upon us and the Energy Price Cap rising yet again in 2025.
The Octopus Fixed tariff is approximately 5.2% below the January 2025 Energy Price Cap for dual fuel customers on typical use. With the Energy Price Cap predicted to rise by a possible 3% on 1st April 2025 there’s no reason not to fix especially with the coldest months of the year still ahead of us.
- The Octopus Flexible tariff is a variable rate. It changes every 3 months in line with the Energy Price Cap.
- The Octopus 12-month fixed is cheaper than the January Energy Price Cap and the predicted April 2025 Price Cap increase.
- When the Energy Price Cap changes on 1st January 2025 the Octopus Flexible rate will change and will be fixed for the next 3 months until 1st April 2025.
- Predictions are that the April 2025 Energy Price Cap will go up 3% from the increased rate. (But opinions vary as the energy market is so volatile at the moment.)
- According to most analysts, in July 2025 there’s a predicted 3% decrease.
If I take the Octopus Fixed tariff can I swap tariffs easily with no exit fees if prices drop?
Yes, with no exit fees, you still fix your Octopus tariff, as a new or existing customer at rates less than the January 2025 Energy Price Cap. You can swap tariffs at any time with no penalty. There’s no waiting you can swap back to the flexible rate or any other tariff you think best suits your energy needs. I’ve done this several times over the last 6 years.
You have the power. You can switch tariffs and take a cheaper tariff if one becomes available.
Is the Octopus 12-month fixed tariff cheaper than the January 2025 Energy Price Cap increase?
The Octopus fixed tariff is cheaper than the January 2025 Energy Price Cap increase. If you are prepared to look at Octopus smart tariffs you could save more but it’s a bit of a gamble.
Here’s a snapshot of some Octopus tariffs available to new and existing customers today and the unit reach for each. If you don’t mind volatility and have a smart meter the Octopus Tracker tariff may still outperform the tradional rates but at the moment there is not much in it.
Octopus Flexible Tariff (October Price Cap) | Octopus 12 months Fixed Tariff 2024/2025 - November v3 | Tracker Tariff October v 1 |
|
---|---|---|---|
Gas | 6.45p | 6.23p | 6.56p |
Electricity | 24.09p | 22.93p | 24.38p |
Rates per kWh | 1st October to 31st December 2024 | Fixed for 12 months. No exit fee. | Rate change daily - 9th December 2024 |
These figures are based on South Wales. Prices will vary depending on your geographical location.
I haven’t included the standing charge as these vary throughout the country. In the illustration above they are all the same except for the standing charge on the gas tracker which is slightly less.
Martin Lewis refers to the 3% predicted rise in April 2025 and is now using the EDF Price Cap Forecasting Service forecast from the 25th of November 2024. I will do the same.
How does Octopus Energy ensure you have a hassle-free experience when switching tariffs?
Honestly, I have often switched Octopus tariffs, it is hassle-free. I even changed my mind about three hours after switching to a new tariff, and they switched me back on the same day.
They seamlessly manage the entire switching process. They are so friendly and transport and I think the key lies in the fact that your account is allocated to a specific team. Each time you email the same team deals with that enquiry. They are given the authority to deal with everything. So there’s no being passed from pillar to post dealing with someone new each time.
Their commitment to genuinely caring about the customer experience is reflected in their dedication to customer satisfaction.
What is the price of the Octopus Flexible Tariff in October 2024? ( 1st October – 31st December 2024)
The Octopus Flexible tariff is a variable rate that follows the Ofgem Energy Price Cap.
The UK’s energy regulator, Ofgem has announced the price increase for customers from 1st January 2025 but until the 31st of December, this is how much you will pay.
The Octopus Flexible tariff prices are below the Ofgem rates for the October 2024 cap. Prices vary depending on where you live in the country.
Octopus October Flexible rate 2024. | |
---|---|
Electricity ⚡️ | Gas 🔥 |
24.49p per kWh | 6.45p per kWh. |
Daily standing charge 62.06p. | Daily standing charge 29.77p. |
Prices vary based on geographical location. |
These are the Octopus Flexible rates per kWh in South Wales. I will update this with the January 2025 rates as soon as they are available,
Here are the October Octopus Flexible rates for all 14 regions around the UK.
You can find prices for the October Octopus Flexible rates if you pay by another method in this recent Octopus Energy blog post.
Energy Price Cap Predictions 2025 will they change?
The energy market is currently so volatile with the conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East that analysts’ predictions vary. No one knows what will happen in 2025 but based on politics and the wholesale market they can take a stab at it.
According to EDF, the Energy Price cap will rise by 3% in April before dropping by a predicted 3% in July 2025
I am using the EDF Price Cap Forecasting Service from 25TH November 2024, as these are the figures Martin Lewis uses too.
Predictions on energy prices are constantly changing and are a best guess.
The world is forever changing, and energy prices fluctuate. These predictions could go down as well as up. I would advise taking predictions with a pinch of salt. That is why the zero exit fee with Octopus is attractive.
When will Ofgem announce the Energy Price Cap rates for January 2025?
Ofgem reviews and updates the Energy Price Cap level every three months. The dates when the Energy Price Cap levels will be announced during the next year are:
- The April 2025 Energy Price Cap will be announced on 25th February 2025.
In this post, I will discuss how proposed changes to the standing charge may also make switching to the Octopus Fixed tariff more attractive.
Octopus 12-month Fixed tariff – Should I fix my Octopus Energy tariff until 2025?
If you don’t want to consider an Octopus smart tariff (all of which are flexible and not fixed), the Octopus 12-month Tariff offers some reassurance without locking you into a contract you can’t afford to get out of.
The Octopus Fixed tariff is like putting a protective Octo shield around your energy tariff. It’ll offer stability preventing further price rises. Plus with no exit fees, you can switch to a lower rate if it becomes available before your fixed rate ends. It’s a win, but you’ll still feel the strain on your purse or wallet this winter as they are still significantly higher than rates before the energy crisis.
Another consideration is Ofgem and the standing charges. Ofgem is reviewing standing charges and may shift some network charges to the price you pay per kWh. If you are a lower user this will be good but if you are a moderate to high user you could pay more for your energy bills.
What does Martin Lewis say about fixing your energy deal?
If you prefer the security of a fixed rate Martin Lewis suggests switching to a fixed rate may be a good option if you can get a fixed deal that is no more than 2% above the October Price Cap. The Octopus 12 months fixed available is well below this.
The Octopus 12-month fixed is around 4% less than the October 2025 Energy Price Cap. There are no exit fees or penalties and it’s open to new customers.
Summary of why I would recommend considering switching to the Octopus Fixed tariff.
- You’ll pay around 4% less than the Octopus Flexible until 1st January 2025 and the rate is fixed for 12 months.
- The Energy Price Cap will increase by 1.2% in January 2025 and possibly by 3% in April 2025.
- Based on these new predictions you would still be paying less on the Octopus Fixed tariff throughout 2025. Remember the 3% price reduction forecast for July 20255 is coming down from the increased price.
- Ofgem may shift network costs onto the unit rate of energy.
- There are no exit fees. You can protect yourself from winter price rises without being trapped on a tariff if energy prices drop as anticipated.
What Octopus Energy tariffs are available for gas?
For your gas supply with Octopus you only have 3 options;
- Flexible Octopus.
- Octopus 12 months fixed.
- Octopus Tracker tariff (You’ll need a smart meter for this.)
How many Octopus Energy tariffs are there for electricty?
For your electricty, there are currently 12 Octopus tariffs available. You don’t need to be on the same tariff for your electricty as you are for your gas.
There are 2 Octopus Tariffs you can switch to for your electricty that do not need a smart meter;
- Octopus 12-months fixed tariff.
- Flexible Octopus / Flexible with Eco 7.
There are 10 Octopus Smart Tariffs for your electricty;
- Octopus Go tariff – Suitable for: EV drivers
- Intelligent Octopus Go – Suitable for: EV drivers with a compatible EV or EV charger. (Best deal 🌟)
- Intelligent Octopus Go – EV Savers – You must lease an EV with Octopus Electric Vehicles and this gives an extra 1p off per kWh off-peak.
- Octopus Agile. – Suitable for: Those who can be flexible with their energy use.
- Octopus Flux – Suitable for: Solar Panels and battery storage.
- Intelligent Octopus Flux – Suitable for: – Solar Panels and battery storage.
- Cosy Octopus Tariff – Suitable for: Heat Pumps
- Octopus Outgoing tariffs – Suitable for: Exporting home solar/wind.
- Octopus Fan Club – Suitable for: Specific postcodes near Caerphilly, Halifax or Market Weighton.
- Octopus Tracker Tariff – Suitable for: Anyone
- Octopus Power Pack – Suitable for: EV drivers with vehicle to grid.
Take the Octopus Quiz to find the right smart tariff for you.
Working out the right Octopus smart tariff to make the most of your green tech can save you a lot of money, cut your C02 and help you on your mission to a more sustainable home. Even though Octopus smart tariffs are fairly new and rather niche over a million Octopus customers have already made the switch and tried them out.
You can try the Octopus smart quiz to see which tariff may be right for you.
Octopus Smart tariffs.
Octopus Energy offers a range of tariffs to suit your energy needs and help you save money. Whether you’re looking for a traditional fixed tariff, want to charge your electric vehicle, or use a home battery, Octopus has a plan that fits. With smart and flexible options, switching to Octopus Energy means you can find the best deal for your lifestyle and start cutting your energy costs today.
So what’s the cheapest Octopus Energy tariff?
Before choosing an Octopus smart tariff you should consider your;
- Aversion to risk.
- Ability to be flexible in your home energy use.
- The green tech you have in your home. (You don’t need any for two of the tariffs.)
- The time of year. (Some tariffs perform better in the summer or winter.)
This article in Bloomberg, “We are energy nerds,” may inspire you if you like green tech. (I’m featured in the article as an energy nerd.) You do not need to be geeky about your energy to switch to Octopus, but if you’d like help finding the best Octopus tariff, I am more than happy to help.
Octopus Energy Tracker.
I am on the Octopus Tracker tariff for my gas supply, which is the simplest way to experience an Octopus smart tariff.
3 Reasons I always recommend the Octopus Tracker tariff.
- The Octopus Tracker tariff requires no green tech and no clock-watching.
- There is just one flat rate, which changes at midnight and is linked to the previous day’s wholesale energy prices. The tracker tariff has no time lag.
- If you want to beat the Energy Price Cap and benefit from drops in energy prices first then it’s an easy tariff to switch to and lower your bill.
You can be on Octopus Tracker tariff for gas, electricty or both. Octopus Energy allows you to split your fuel types between different Octopus tariffs.
- Ideal for: Anyone. You don’t need any green tech and it’s the only smart tariff that can be used for gas and electricty. (You don’t need to have both energy types on the same tariff.) If you are prepared to ride with the wave of wholesale energy prices in real-time to save money this flat rate which changes every day at midnight is for you.
- Would I recommend this tariff? Yes, it is an easy entry into Octopus smart tariffs for anyone who wants to reduce their energy bill right now.
- Advantages: The Octopus Tracker tariff isn’t linked to the Energy Price Cap. With this tariff, if wholesale energy prices fall, you make the savings immediately. On the flip side, if wholesale energy prices go up, you feel the pinch first, too.
- Disadvantages: This isn’t a set-and-forget tariff. You have to monitor the prices at least weekly to ensure it’s still a valid way of saving money compared to the Energy Price Cap.
Octopus Energy Tracker tariff for today (9th December 2024) and gas tracker rates for the last week.
On the Octopus Tracker tariff, today’s unit rate is 6.56p Wh for gas and 24.38p per kWh for electricity.
The price is based on the South Wales region and may vary depending on location. The standing charge is the same as all the other Octopus tariffs. For example, South Wales has 62.26p per day for electricty and 23.73p per day for gas.
If you opt for the Octopus Tracker tariff your daily rates will change but the formula and the standing charges are set for the 12 months your terms are fixed. The latest version of the tariff is Octopus Tracker October v1.
You can find more information;
- Octopus Tracker Tariff FAQs
- Octopus Tracker v Energy Price Cap
- Octopus Tariff is it still worth it after July prices increase?
Octopus Energy Agile tariff
Octopus Agile is a unique tariff ideal for renewable energy enthusiasts. It is a variable tariff where the rates you pay for electricty change half-hourly based on wholesale energy prices. If the winds blow and there’s excess energy on the grid you could get paid to use it. If there is high demand the rate goes up. You’ll use cleaner, greener energy and save money.
- Ideal for: Anyone. You don’t need any green tech. If you can shift some of your energy use to the cheaper half-hourly slots you should save money on your energy bill. You’ll have to be flexible with your energy use. Eagle eye bargain-saving customers will love this tariff.
- Would I recommend this tariff? Yes, Octopus Agile requires no green tech. If you have battery storage you can reduce your energy bill, if you don’t you can too!
- Advantages: You aren’t stuck on the Energy Price Cap. If it’s windy and there’s excess energy you can get cheap or even free energy. Several times this year Octopus customers have been paid to use energy. If you can be flexible with your energy use with no green tech you can drastically reduce your average price per kWh.
- Disadvantages: It is not a set-and-forget tariff you have to actively manage your energy use. Unless you have Home Assistant or a third-party software that can help automate it.
More information:
Top pick of Octopus Energy EV tariffs in 2024.🌟
Intelligent Octopus Go is my top pick for 2024. Intelligent Octopus Go rates are cheaper, 7.0p instead of 8.5p on Octopus Go. The off-peak rate spans a minimum of six hours versus five on Go.
Octopus Energy Go.
If you own an Electric Vehicle and can charge it at home you should consider a dedicated EV tariff. On the Octopus Go tariff, you can get an off-peak rate well below any Economy 7 or domestic energy tariff.
- Ideal for: Anyone with an Electric Vehicle who can charge at home at night.
- Would I recommend this tariff?: Yes, I would recommend this tariff if you don’t qualify for the intelligent version of this tariff. Octopus Go provides 5 hours of off-peak charging between 00.30 and 05.30 at 8.5p per kWh. This should be enough time to top up your EV each night on a cheap tariff.
- Have I been on this tariff myself?: Yes, before the launch of Intelligent Octopus Go I was on Octopus Go.
- Advantages: Octopus Go is simple to use. All you need to do is set your timer once on your EV or EV charger and plug it in each night. The whole house gets to use the off-peak including your home battery if you have one. This will help reduce your overall energy bill.
- Disadvantages: If you regularly need to charge your battery from low to fully charged, four hours may not be enough.
Intelligent Octopus Go.
If you have an eligible EV or EV charger Intelligent Octopus Go wins hands down. You’d only opt for Octopus Go if you are not eligible for Intelligent Octopus Go. It provides a way of charging your EV at home at the greenest time for the grid.
- Ideal for: Anyone with a compatible EV or EV charger who can charge at home at night.
- Would I recommend this tariff?: Yes, Intelligent Octopus Go is the cheapest EV-dedicated tariff Octopus has. It’s 7.0p per kWh for a minimum of 6 hours a night between 11.30 pm and 5.30 am. Enough to add a large charge to your EV each night.
- Have I been on this tariff myself? Yes, for 2 years. It is my current tariff. I charge my EV and home battery at night for 7.0p per kWh.
- Advantages: Intelligent Octopus Go is simple to use. In the Octopus app you set the level of charge you want and buy when and Octopus does the rest. Need more than 6 hours of EV charging? Octopus will allocate additional off-peak slots. If you arrive home empty and need it fully charged for the next morning that will be done all at the 7.0p per kWh rate. The whole house gets the off-peak too including your home battery if you have one. There is no restriction on your export tariff. I export on Outgoing fixed at 15p per kWh.
- Disadvantages: You need a compatible EV or EV charger. Completing the test charge can be fiddly to get onto the tariff but it usually doesn’t take long. There are occasional glitches as it’s a beta tariff.
Octopus Flux Tariff.
Octopus Flux customers are rewarded for exporting electricity at peak times and importing electricity off-peak. It is a dual-band tariff with one standing charge.
- Ideal for: Anyone with solar panels or solar panels combined with battery storage.
- Would I recommend this tariff? Yes, but only if you export over 40% more than you import.
- Have I been on this tariff? No, I had my solar and battery installation in October 2023. Over winter this isn’t the tariff to be on. I did consider it for the summer but Octopus has lowered the export rate and increased the import rate since 1st April. I am happy with my current tariff.
- Advantages: There is a much higher export rate on Octopus Flux. Time your export to the peak period you’ll make more money than on a standard outgoing tariff. If you have either a large solar array or a large home battery plus your import is low then you can maximise your solar export income during the spring and summer months.
- Disadvantages: If I import more than I export this wouldn’t be the best Octopus tariff as the import rate is quite high compared to other smart tariffs. It requires a slightly more hands-on approach compared to the Intelligent version of the tariff. (Unless you are using Home Assistant)
You can see the rates in my full review of the Octopus Flux tariff.
Intelligent Octopus Flux.
Intelligent Octopus Flux is a combined import and export tariff. It’s for customers with a compatible home battery and solar panels. The rates of your import and export match on Octopus Flux.
- Ideal for: Anyone with a GivEnergy battery and solar panels.
- Would I recommend the tariff? Yes, but it would have been a firmer yes last summer before the July 2024 price changes. Now, you have to do a little more calculation to make sure it is the best tariff for you. If you want to be completely hands-off and you don’t have an EV that qualifies for an EV tariff this is a plug-and-play tariff which is ideal for the spring and summer.
- Have I been on this tariff? No, I have a GivEnergy battery but I also have an EV. I prefer the ease of the tariff I am on. It has a lower import rate combined with a flat export rate, which doesn’t change throughout the day. That’s just my personal preference.
- Advantages: Octopus automates everything. The import and export rates are the same. It’s a one-in and one-out tariff which could result in a zero energy bill. However, if you export more than you import at peak times you’ll start to make a credit on your energy bill. During the summer you should easily be able to do and it is all automated.
- Disadvantages: The import rate is quite high. You hand over the control of your home battery to Octopus. This could be seen as an advantage or disadvantage. It is, however, easy to switch this control off. I believe it’s the same as on Intelligent Octopus Go. I turn off the smart controlling of my EV in the Octopus app.
Read my full review of Intelligent Octopus Flux.
Cosy Octopus Tariff.
Cosy Octopus is an Octopus Energy tariff designed for heat pump owners. It is a variable time-of-use tariff with three price dips during the day. The dips are “boost periods” from 04:00 – 07:00, 13:00 – 14:00 and 22.00 to 00.00. There is also a “peak period” from 16:00 – 19:00. Outside these times there is another price per kWh. So in total, there are 3 pricing periods, along with a standing charge.
- Ideal for: Anyone with a heat pump.
- Would I recommend the tariff? Yes, if you have a heat pump it looks like a good option. In winter especially with the additional boost period between 10p and midnight.
- Have I been on this tariff? No, I don’t own a heat pump yet.
- Advantages: The boost periods will help all-electric homes who rely on electricity to heat their homes. You can boost during a cheap period and then coast during a peak period. The price reduction and the additional 2 hours off-peak launched on 1st July 2024 make this very attractive.
- Disadvantages?: As I don’t have a heat pump I am not sure. I think if you threw in an EV and home battery you’d have to stop and do some maths. A third-party compare app would be helpful to make sure you are on the best tariff during the winter.
If you want to get a quote you can find the rates for your area on the Octopus website. Just scroll down and enter your postcode.
You can also find out more in my full review of the Cosy tariff.
Octopus Outgoing Tariffs
If you have green tech Octopus are leading the way with the smart and export tariffs. I have 16 solar panels. A 13.5 kWh battery and an EV. I have spent as many hours pondering tariffs as I have looking at my solar generation in the GivEnergy App.
You can read more in my review on Octopus Outgoing.
Octopus Fan Club.
Do you are near an Octopus wind turbine in Caerphilly, Halifax or Market Weighton? If so you can receive discounted energy by joining the Octopus Fan Club.
Octopus are looking to build more fan club wind turbines. They have set up a page where landowners can get in touch – Winder. They say it’s just like Tinder but for people who love wind turbines.
Octopus Energy Tariffs Frequently Asked Questions.
Are there any additional benefits when you have a smart meter?
If you have a smart meter as well as having additional tariffs to choose you have three additional benefits;
- Octoplus – Octopus rewards. Free electricty sessions.
- Saving Sessions – earning money for using no energy or exporting energy at peak times during the winter.
- Power Ups – Get free energy at super green times. (South East England)
Here are some of the FAQs that might help you choose an Octopus Tariff. I have a separate section lower down the page for an overview of Octopus smart tariffs.
Are Energy Prices Rising in 2024 / 2025?
Energy prices are predicted to remain higher than the July energy price cap rates well into 2025.
Prices have dropped over the last year. I am not a fan of typical usage figures but as you can see the Octopus Flexible Tariff has gone down. You’ll pay less in the winter of 2024 than you did in 2023.
Time Period | Octopus Flexible Tariff |
---|---|
April 2021 - October 2021 | £1,032 |
October 2021 - April 2022 | £1,225 |
April 2022 - October 2022 | £1,921 |
October 2022 - January 2023 | £2,500 |
January 2023 - April 2023 | £2,500 |
April 2023 - July 2023 | £2,500 |
July 2023 - October 2023 | £2,488 |
October 2023 - January 2024 | £1,819 |
January 2024 - April 2024 | £1,913 |
April 2024 - July 2024 | £1,690 |
July 2024 - October 2024 | £1,568 |
October 2024 - January 2024 | £1,717 |
Predictions | |
January 2024 - April 2025 | £1,762 |
However, here is a comparison between the Octopus fixed rate and the Octopus Flexible rates, which follow the Energy Price Cap and they are increasing.
I have quoted the prices per kWh instead of typical use.
Octopus Energy Tariff. | Time Period | Electricty price per kWh. | Gas price price per kWh |
---|---|---|---|
Octopus 12 months fixed November v3 South Wales | Now. | 22.93p | 6.23p |
Loyal Octopus 12 months fixed - South Wales | Now | N/A | N/A |
Octopus Flexible Tariff - South Wales | 1st October - 31st December 2024 | 24.49p | 6.45p |
Octopus Flexible Tariff - Energy Price Cap. | 1st January to 31st March 2025 | 24.85p | 6.54p |
If you are undecided about fixing your Octopus tariff the comparison above might help. The energy prices are based on predictions by Cornwall Insight (Martyn Lewis refers to these as well) from the 19th of August 2024, Ofgem and Octopus Energy’s current tariff prices.
What is the Loyal Octopus 12-month fixed tariff?
The Loyal Octopus 12-month fixed tariff was open to existing Octopus Energy customers who had been with Octopus for 8 months. It was 4% below the Energy Price Cap. This tariff has been withdrawn and replaced with a fixed tariff that is available to new and existing customers.
I am all for being rewarded for loyalty but the Loyal Octopus 12-month fixed tariff has now been overtaken by the Octopus 15-month fixed August v1 (I think it should be September 2024 v1 tariff.) It provides a cheaper rate for everyone which is great.
- Ofgem has proposed allowing companies to hide or even bar their best switching deals from loyal customers
- Octopus disagrees and pledges that its best and lowest tariffs will be available to existing customers, not just new ones.
You can see the Loyal Octopus rates in the historical tariffs section of the Octopus website. Enter your postcode and filter for domestic and historical tariffs.
Can I switch Octopus tariffs if I find a better deal?
Yes, you can swap Octopus Energy tariffs very easily there are no exit fees on any of their tariffs.
Are there any exit fees on any Octopus Energy tariffs?
There are no exit fees on any of the Octopus Energy tariffs. You can switch tariffs at any time except;
- Tracker tariff – No exit fee but you may have to wait 2 weeks to switch to another tariff. You also can’t go back onto this tariff for 9 months. (To stop people gaming the system)
- Agile tariff – No exit fee, you can switch tariffs straight away but you can’t go back onto the tariff for 30 days. (To stop people gaming the system)
I have switched energy tariffs several times with Octopus and it is straightforward to do. Simply email hello@octopus.energy or DM them on Twitter plus you can call them too.
What can I do to lower my Octopus Energy bill?
Apart from using less energy if you use energy, you’ll get charged the set energy rate. By choosing an Octopus Economy 7 tariff, you can shift as much of your energy use as possible to the off-peak window, thereby lowering the average price you pay per kWh on your monthly bill.
Additionally, if you have a smart meter, you will have even more options. For example, by switching to Octopus Agile, you could even get paid to use energy!
Have Octopus Energy’s standing charges gone up?
Yes, in 2024 Octopus Energy increased its standing charges but they are still 4% below the rate set by Ofgem.
Standing charges are unfair. No matter how hard you try you can’t lower your standing charge. I live in South Wales which has a lower population density and just like Scotland, Wales and northern England we get hit with higher daily standing charges.
I appreciate the 4% reduction on the standing charge from Octopus, however, I wish there were a way for people with lower energy use to reduce it even further.
Perhaps we will hear more from Ofgem on this matter when they review the Energy Price Cap in the coming months.
Customer review.
My website is not managed or owned by Octopus Energy. I created the website, Sarah Go Green, a mum, home energy geek and a very happy Octopus Energy customer.
You can read further independent Octopus Energy reviews on Trustpilot where 89% of customers give them 5 stars.
How to contact Octopus Energy.
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