Your Energy Cost
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Energy Unit Cost Calculator
Enter your unit rate and usage to see exactly what your gas or electricity is costing you — daily, monthly and annually. Ofgem price cap rates are pre-filled but you can enter your own from your bill.
Tip! — Your unit rate is shown on your energy bill in pence per kWh (p/kWh). Check your bill or online account for your exact rate.
| Fuel Type | |
| Unit Rate (p/kWh) | |
| Usage Amount (kWh) | |
| Usage Period |
Cost Breakdown
| Period | Usage (kWh) | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Run calculation to see breakdown | ||
GUIDE
What Is a Unit of Gas and Electricity?
Understand what a kWh actually is, how gas and electricity units are measured, and what they mean on your bill.
Read Guide →How to Use the Unit Cost Calculator
Step-by-Step
- Select your fuel type — choose electricity or gas. The unit rate will update to the current Ofgem price cap default for that fuel.
- Enter your unit rate — find this on your energy bill in pence per kWh (p/kWh). Override the default if your rate differs.
- Enter your usage — enter how many kWh you use and select whether that figure is per day, per month, or per year.
- Click Calculate — see your cost per day, month and year in the breakdown table, plus a comparison to the UK average.
What Does the Unit Rate Mean?
Your unit rate is the price you pay for each kilowatt-hour (kWh) of energy you use. It is the core number that determines your energy bill alongside your standing charge. Under the Ofgem price cap the typical unit rates from April 2026 are approximately 24.70p per kWh for electricity and 5.7p per kWh for gas.
How Your Bill Is Calculated
Your energy bill is calculated by multiplying your usage in kWh by your unit rate, then adding the standing charge. This calculator focuses on the usage cost so you can see exactly what your consumption is costing you separately from the fixed daily charge.
UK Average Energy Usage
A typical UK household uses around 2,700 kWh of electricity and 11,500 kWh of gas per year according to Ofgem — approximately 225 kWh of electricity and 958 kWh of gas per month. If your usage is significantly higher, the Energy Usage Estimator can show you which appliances are costing the most.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a unit of gas or electricity?
A unit is one kilowatt-hour (kWh) — the standard measure of energy. It represents the energy used by a 1,000-watt appliance running for one hour. Your bill charges you per kWh consumed.
What is the current electricity unit rate in the UK?
Under the Ofgem price cap from April 2026 the typical electricity unit rate is around 24.70p per kWh. Your rate may differ — check your bill for the exact figure.
What is the current gas unit rate in the UK?
The typical gas unit rate under the Ofgem price cap from April 2026 is around 5.7p per kWh. Gas is cheaper per kWh than electricity but a typical home uses far more gas kWh for heating.
How do I find my unit rate?
Your unit rate is shown on your energy bill in pence per kWh (p/kWh), usually on the first or second page. You can also find it in your online account or energy supplier app.
Does this calculator include the standing charge?
No. This calculator shows your usage cost only. To see what your standing charge adds annually use the Standing Charge Calculator.