Owt for Nowt

Energy · 7 min read

Energy standing charges, explained properly

Standing charges eat quiet households alive. Here's how to stop paying for nowt you don't use.

The quiet bill killer

If you're careful with the kettle but still shocked by the statement, look at the standing charge. It's the fixed daily fee — and for thrifty households it can dwarf usage.

What to do

  • Compare unit rate and standing charge together.
  • Ask about warm home discount / priority services if eligible.
  • Draught-proof before you buy fancy kit.

Quirky truth

Turning lights off helps. Fixing the letterbox flap that whistles like a pit village gale helps more.

All tips