Quick answer
Fixed and variable energy tariffs can both be reasonable to inspect, but UK Shortlists does not forecast future prices or tell you which tariff type to choose. Use this checklist to compare the wording before acting.
The practical job is to understand what changes, what is fixed, what fees apply and what information you must verify directly with the provider.
Fixed tariff checks
- Contract length and end date.
- Unit rates and standing charges for each fuel.
- Whether the payment method affects the tariff.
- Exit-fee wording and whether a switching window applies near the end of the term.
- What happens when the fixed term ends.
- Whether any add-ons, smart-meter terms or support arrangements affect your decision.
Variable tariff checks
- How the provider explains rate changes.
- Whether the tariff is linked to standard variable, price-cap or other wording.
- How much notice the provider gives before changes.
- Whether standing charges and unit rates can change separately.
- Whether exit fees, notice periods or payment-method requirements apply.
- What evidence you can save before and after any change.
Compare like with like
Use your annual usage, current bill and contract wording when comparing tariff pages. A monthly estimate can be misleading if it uses different assumptions from your current household usage.
Check current unit rates, standing charges, contract length, exit fees, payment method, eligibility, supply area, renewable wording and cancellation terms directly with the provider before acting.
Local disclosure
UK Shortlists may earn a commission if you use partner links on this page. Your Co-op Energy is shown as one provider to check directly, not as a recommendation, tariff ranking, price comparison, savings claim, renewable claim or switching advice.
What this guide does not claim
This guide does not claim future prices, live prices, live tariffs, savings, expected savings, availability, eligibility, renewable superiority, serviceability, whole-market comparison, best-provider status, financial advice, legal advice, regulated advice or that UK Shortlists has tested or verified any supplier.