Economy 7 tariff guidance

Consumers on an Economy 7 tariff will pay one rate for electricity used during a specified off-peak period, and another, more expensive rate during peak hours.

How the tariff works 

You’ll find out what your tariff’s seven off-peak hours are when you sign up. 

Usually, this period runs from midnight to 7am, but it may vary depending on your location and your supplier.

Switching to an Economy 7 tariff 

An Economy 7 tariff could help you save money if you use more electricity at night, for example for electric storage heaters, or to charge an electric vehicle (EV).

Available on- and off-peak rates may vary, so you should shop around for the right deal. 

If you don’t use much electricity at night, then you’re likely to be better off on a single rate tariff.

Economy 7 meters 

To help make sure your bills are accurate, you’ll need an electricity meter which records peak and off-peak consumption separately. This could be a special two-rate (or ‘dual-rate’) meter, or a smart meter that’s capable of offering different rates during different periods.

If you’re on an Economy 7 tariff already and do not think you have the correct meter, contact your supplier as soon as possible.

Changes to electricity meters using Radio Teleswitch technology 

If you have an Economy 7 meter or a meter that automatically turns on your heating or hot water, you may have a meter that uses Radio Teleswitch (RTS) technology. 

The technology that supports RTS meters is being phased out. It is currently planned to end on 30 June 2025. You should contact your supplier to arrange an upgrade to a replacement smart meter which can provide comparable tariffs to Economy 7. 

Read about the changes and how they affect households in our radio teleswitch electricity meters consumer guidance.