Switching from British Gas
Octopus Energy vs British Gas: what actually changes when you switch
Switching from British Gas to Octopus does not usually change your unit rate much on a standard variable tariff, because both track the Ofgem price cap. The real differences are smart tariff availability, service quality and whether you can use a referral link for credit.
| Octopus Energy | British Gas | |
|---|---|---|
| Standard variable rate | Tracks the Ofgem cap. | Tracks the Ofgem cap. |
| Smart / time-of-use tariffs | Agile, Cosy, Intelligent Octopus Go. | A narrower range, mostly EV-focused. |
| Referral credit on joining | Yes, via a referral link, direct on their site. | Not comparable. |
| Exit fees | None on variable tariffs. | Depends on your fixed contract. |
Before you start
- Check your British Gas exit fee before switching. If you are inside a fix, the fee can wipe out the referral credit.
- You can leave a fixed tariff penalty-free in the last 49 days before it ends.
- Your switch is handled by the industry switching process. You do not need to contact British Gas.
Do not switch from British Gas if
If you are locked into a British Gas fix below the current cap, stay put until it ends. £50 of credit does not beat a materially cheaper unit rate over a year.
Claim your £50 credit →
Opens octopus.energy. You must sign up there directly for the credit to count.