SSE cuts prices finally, but cheaper tariffs elsewhere

As SSE's gas prices finally drop, we look at tariffs that offer even bigger savings.

The final price cut to standard gas prices by a Big Six energy supplier comes into effect today, with SSE customers enjoying a 4.1% cut.

Earlier cuts from E.ON, British Gas, ScottishPower, npower and EDF Energy have already come into effect. Here’s how much each supplier has cut their standard tariff gas prices by, when the change came into effect and the average cost of a dual fuel standard tariff.

Supplier	Gas price cut	When it came into effect	Average dual fuel standard tariff cost
E.ON	3.5%	13th January	£1,215
EDF Energy	1.3%	11th February	£1,228
Npower	5.1%	16th February	£1,264
ScottishPower	4.8%	20th February	£1,251
British Gas	5%	27th February	£1,229
SSE	4.1%	30th April	£1,237

The trouble is, these cuts are only to the standard tariffs, which are already some of the worst deals on offer. Just look at the astronomical cost in that table.

The standard tariff is the one you move onto when your fixed deal comes to an end. It’s the one that boosts the energy suppliers’ coffers, as it makes the most of people's apathy when it comes to switching energy deals.

And by not switching, you’re potentially throwing away hundreds of pounds.

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Fixed rate energy tariffs to switch to

So don’t sit on your standard tariff, paying through the nose. Shop around for a better deal. The table below details the very best fixed rate dual fuel tariffs on offer at the moment, and how much they will cost the average household.

Supplier	Tariff	Average cost
First Utility	The Big Deal Collective Switch April 2016	£892.49
First Utility	iSave Fixed May 2016	£899.49
Extra Energy	Fresh Fixed Price September 2016	£913
Extra Energy	Clear Fixed Price March 2016	£919
Extra Energy	Bright Fixed Price January 2016	£919
Npower	Price Fix May 2016	£927
First Utility	iSave Fixed May 2016	£933.49
Scottish Power	Online Fixed Price Energy May 2016	£941.23
Co-operative Energy	Fair & Square May 2016	£944
Sainsbury’s Energy	Fixed Price March 2016	£949.36

Source: loveMONEY gas and electricity comparison centre

Prices based on average consumption as measured by Ofgem of 13,500kWh of gas and 3,200kWh of electricity and a customer paying by monthly direct debit including VAT.

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How do I switch energy tariffs?

Many people are put off switching energy deals as they think it will be too much hassle. However, moving energy deals is actually pretty straight forward.

Be sure to read our step-by-step guide on How to switch energy supplier.

Compare gas and electricity prices and see if you could save

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Ten ways to save on energy

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