Compare dynamic electricity tariffs in Ireland

How to compare dynamic electricity tariffs

Dynamic electricity tariffs can be harder to compare, because prices change throughout the day and each supplier may structure its plans differently.

The cheapest dynamic tariff will depend on how much electricity you use and when you normally use it. For a more personalised result, enter your annual electricity usage or upload your smart meter data in the comparison above.

Depending on the plan, the price may include:

• a base unit rate
• dynamic unit rate
• standing charge
• VAT
• PSO levy

Some plans also have different day, night and peak base rates, with the dynamic rate added on top.

When comparing dynamic electricity plans, check:

What to compare	Why it matters
Base unit rate	This is the standard part of your electricity rate. It may stay the same all day or have a set price for day, night and peak.
Dynamic unit rate	This changes every half hour depending on wholesale electricity prices.
Standing charge	This is a fixed daily charge you pay regardless of how much electricity you use.
Day, night and peak rates	Some plans have different base rates depending on the time of day.
Contract length	Check how long the contract lasts and whether an early exit fee applies.

Read our guide to dynamic electricity tariffs to understand how dynamic pricing works, how rates are calculated and whether this type of electricity plan could suit how and when you use energy.

Using smart meter data to compare plans

Using your smart meter data can give you a more accurate dynamic tariff comparison.

Two households could use the same amount of electricity but pay different amounts on a dynamic tariff, depending on what times of day they use it.

If you have a smart meter, you can download your half-hourly electricity usage data from your ESB Networks online account and upload it to Switcher.ie when comparing plans.

This allows us to estimate costs using your own electricity usage pattern, rather than average household figures.

If you don’t have your smart meter file, you can still compare dynamic tariffs by entering your annual electricity usage.

What should you check before switching?

Before switching to a dynamic electricity tariff, check that the tariff suits both your electricity usage and your household routine.

Things to check include:

• Smart meter: You’ll need a smart meter that can record your electricity use in half-hourly intervals.
• Current contract: Check whether your existing electricity plan has an early exit fee.
• Full tariff price: Look at the base rate, dynamic rate, standing charge and any day, night or peak rates.
• Day-ahead prices: Find out how and where the supplier publishes its prices for the following day.
• Price alerts: Find out whether the supplier offers alerts when prices rise or fall.
• Your usage times: Consider whether you can move things like EV charging, laundry or dishwasher use to cheaper periods.

A dynamic tariff may suit you if you can regularly move your electricity use to cheaper times. If most of your usage happens during expensive periods, a standard or Time-of-Use tariff could offer better value.

How do you switch to a dynamic electricity tariff?

To switch to a dynamic tariff, you’ll need a smart meter.

You’ll also need your MPRN, a recent electricity bill and your payment details.

You can then:

1. Check whether you’re still in contract and if an early exit fee applies.
2. Compare the available plans using your annual electricity usage or smart meter data, checking the full rates, standing charge, contract terms and eligibility requirements.
3. If you can’t switch to a dynamic plan through Switcher.ie, visit the supplier’s website to confirm the details and apply.

Your new supplier will arrange the switch, and your electricity supply won’t be interrupted.

Read our guide to switching gas and electricity supplier for more information.

Which dynamic electricity tariff is cheapest?

There isn’t one cheapest dynamic electricity tariff for every household.

The best value plan will depend on the tariff’s base rate, standing charge, dynamic prices and when you normally use electricity.

A plan with a low dynamic rate may not always be the cheapest overall if it has a higher base rate or standing charge.

To find the best value option, compare the full tariff costs and use your smart meter data where possible.