A Comprehensive Guide to Octopus Energy Tariffs and Services

Since its arrival on the UK energy scene in 2016, Octopus Energy has rapidly transformed from a disruptive newcomer into a major force in the domestic energy market. With a strong focus on renewable energy, customer service, and technological innovation, it has attracted millions of customers. This guide will explore everything you need to know about Octopus Energy, from its diverse range of tariffs to its award-winning customer support.

1. Who is Octopus Energy?

Octopus Energy has established itself as one of the UK's largest energy suppliers. Its significant growth has been fuelled by a combination of attracting customers with competitive pricing and a fresh approach, as well as acquiring the customer bases of other suppliers exiting the market, most notably Bulb and Shell Energy's retail division.

The company's philosophy is built on using technology to create a more efficient and customer-friendly experience, while championing the transition to a greener energy system. This approach has earned them numerous accolades for customer satisfaction and has positioned them as a leader in the renewable energy sector.

2. A Deep Dive into Octopus Energy Tariffs

Octopus offers a wide variety of tariffs designed to suit different lifestyles and needs. Unlike many suppliers who offer a very limited selection, Octopus provides options for standard users, tech-savvy consumers, and electric vehicle owners.

Standard and Fixed Tariffs

For customers who prefer simplicity and predictability, Octopus provides standard tariff options.

• Flexible Octopus: This is their standard variable tariff. The unit rates for electricity and gas, along with the daily standing charge, can change over time. These prices are aligned with the energy price cap set by the regulator, Ofgem, meaning you are protected from extreme market volatility. This tariff has no exit fees, offering complete flexibility if you decide to switch.
• Octopus 12M Fixed: For those who want to lock in their energy prices, a fixed tariff provides certainty. Your unit rates and standing charges are fixed for a 12-month period, protecting you from any price increases during that time. This is an excellent option for households that want to budget their energy costs accurately for the year ahead.

Innovative Smart Tariffs

These tariffs require a functioning smart meter and are designed for customers who want to engage more actively with their energy consumption to save money.

• Octopus Tracker: This tariff links your energy costs directly to the daily wholesale price. Each day, the price you pay for gas and electricity changes based on the previous day's market rate. While this can lead to significant savings when wholesale prices are low, it also carries the risk of higher bills when market prices spike. It is not protected by the Ofgem price cap, but Octopus implements its own cap to prevent extreme costs.
• Agile Octopus: Taking dynamic pricing a step further, the Agile tariff offers half-hourly pricing. Every day, you receive the prices for the next 24-hour period, broken down into 30-minute slots. This allows you to shift your energy usage to times when prices are lowest, sometimes even getting paid to use electricity when there is an excess of renewable generation on the grid. It's ideal for those with smart home technology or flexible schedules.

Specialist Tariffs for Modern Homes

• Octopus Go: Specifically created for electric vehicle (EV) drivers, this tariff offers a period of significantly cheaper electricity overnight. Typically, you get a four-hour window in the early hours of the morning (e.g., 00:30 - 04:30) with a very low rate per kWh. This makes charging your EV at home incredibly cost-effective. A smart meter is required to access this tariff.
• Economy 7: While not an innovative tariff itself, Octopus supports customers with traditional Economy 7 meters. These meters provide a cheaper rate for electricity during a seven-hour overnight period, which is beneficial for homes with electric storage heaters or those who can run large appliances at night.

3. Commitment to Green Energy

A core part of Octopus Energy's identity is its commitment to sustainability. All electricity tariffs are backed by 100% renewable sources, such as wind, solar, and hydro power. This means that for every unit of electricity a customer uses, Octopus ensures a corresponding unit of green energy is generated and supplied to the grid.

For gas, which is a fossil fuel, Octopus offers a "Supergreen" upgrade. By paying a small extra amount on your bill, the company will offset the carbon emissions from your gas usage through supporting verified carbon reduction projects around the world.

4. Customer Service and Reviews

Octopus Energy consistently receives outstanding feedback from its customers. On review platforms like TrustPilot, it maintains an exceptionally high rating from a very large volume of reviews, with the vast majority being positive. Customers frequently praise the company's responsive UK-based support team, clear communication, and user-friendly website and app.

This commitment to service has also been recognised in industry awards, where Octopus often wins categories for Overall Customer Satisfaction, Best Customer Service, and Value for Money.

5. Managing Your Account and Getting Support

Interacting with Octopus Energy is designed to be straightforward.

• Digital Tools: The Octopus app and online account portal allow you to manage every aspect of your account. You can submit meter readings, view your usage history, analyse your consumption, change your payment details, and access your bills and statements at any time.
• Smart Meters: Octopus is actively rolling out smart meters to its customers. You can register your interest online, and they will notify you when installation appointments are available in your area. Having a smart meter is essential for accessing their innovative tariffs.
• Contacting Support: If you need to speak to a person, you can reach their customer service team via:
  • Phone: 0808 164 1088 (Monday-Thursday 9am-5pm, Friday 9am-4pm)
  • Email: hello@octopus.energy

6. Other Services and Options

• Dual Fuel: For maximum simplicity, most customers opt for a dual fuel plan, receiving both gas and electricity from Octopus on a single, consolidated bill. Electricity-only plans are also available. However, Octopus does not offer gas-only tariffs for domestic households.
• Business Energy: Octopus extends its services to the business sector, offering a range of tariffs that mirror their domestic offerings but are tailored for commercial usage. These also come with 100% renewable electricity as standard.

7. Is Switching to Octopus Energy Right for You?

Choosing an energy supplier is a personal decision based on your priorities. Octopus Energy appeals to a broad range of consumers, particularly those who value:

• Green Credentials: A genuine commitment to 100% renewable electricity.
• Excellent Customer Service: A proven track record of keeping customers happy.
• Technological Innovation: Access to smart tariffs that can lead to significant savings for engaged users.
• Fair and Transparent Pricing: A range of clear and competitive tariffs.

The process of switching is handled entirely by Octopus once you sign up, and your energy supply will not be interrupted. With the industry regulated by Ofgem, you are always protected by a safety net, ensuring a secure and simple transition.