PowerGuardian Tools

    UK Standing Charge Calculator

    Compare your current daily standing charge against another supplier, tariff or average figure to see the annual difference.

    Independent UK energy information from PowerGuardian.

    Figures reviewed June 2026 and updated monthly where appropriate. All results are estimates.

    Enter pence per day, not pounds.

    Another supplier, tariff or average in pence per day.

    Enter all standing charges in pence per day, not pounds. Standing charges apply every day even when you use no energy at all. This tool provides an estimate, not a guaranteed figure.

    Enter your current standing charge and comparison standing charge to calculate the difference.

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    How the Standing Charge Calculator Works

    The calculator converts a daily standing charge into monthly and annual costs by multiplying the daily pence figure by 365 days and converting to pounds. It then compares your current standing charge against a comparison figure you enter — from another supplier, tariff or an average — to show the difference over a year.

    What Is a Standing Charge?

    A standing charge is a fixed daily amount you pay simply for being connected to the gas or electricity network. It applies every day even if you use no energy at all, which is why it forms part of your bill regardless of how much you switch off.

    Why Standing Charges Matter

    Standing charges can make a meaningful difference to annual bills, particularly for low-usage households. If you use relatively little energy, the fixed daily charge can make up a large share of your total bill, so comparing standing charges between tariffs is worthwhile.

    Electricity Standing Charges vs Gas Standing Charges

    Electricity and gas usually carry different standing charges. Dual fuel customers typically pay both — a separate daily charge for electricity and another for gas — so the combined daily figure can be higher than people expect. This calculator lets you compare them separately or together.

    Why Supplier Standing Charges Differ

    Standing charges vary because of network and maintenance costs, your region, the tariff type, each supplier's own pricing decisions, policy costs and the market rules that govern how these charges are set. Two homes in different regions can pay quite different daily charges as a result.

    Understand Your Fixed Energy Costs

    Use PowerGuardian tools and guides to see how standing charges affect your annual energy bill.

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    Explore the Knowledge Centre

    Find related calculators, guides and reports in our Energy Bills hub — part of the PowerGuardian Knowledge Centre.

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