More about the Smart tariff

Which tariffs include a smart meter?

The Smart tariff includes a free smart meter, available via switching sites (Smart Online Saver V3) or via our website. These tariffs are currently only available to customers in the East and West Midlands regions. We will make this tariff available to other regions during 2010.
View prices for your region

When will the Smart tariff be available in my region?

The Smart tariff is currently only available in the East and West Midlands regions. It will be available to all other regions during 2010.  

Can you supply me with electricity only?

No. The Smart tariff is dual fuel only. 

How do you pay the dual fuel discount?

The duel fuel discount will be credited annually, based on a year's consecutive Direct Debit payments at the percentage rate detailed on your tariff guide when you signed up.

What happens after I sign-up online for this tariff?

Because we need to install one of our smart meters in your home, the switching process is slightly different to normal. Once you have registered, it takes approximately 28 days to transfer your energy supply to first:utility. Once on board, we will transfer your electricity and gas supply immediately. Within 60 days of your supply start date we will ask you to choose your smart meter installation date. How quickly we install your smart meter will depend on the availability of appointments within your area. You will receive monthly bills from us, with the opportunity each month to submit an accurate meter reading up until the point your smart meter is installed.

Do you still offer two rate and three rate tariffs?

Yes. We offer prices for two rate (day and night) and three rate (morning, afternoon, night). This option is only available to customers already on one of our Smart tariffs. We advise that you do not change your tariff until your smart meter has been fully operational in your home for three to twelve months. This is so that you can choose the rate that suits your energy usage habits best. Our customer service agents are well placed to look at your usage patterns and advise you whether you will be best staying with single rate, or changing to two or three rate. To discuss this option and find out our current rates please contact our customer service team on 0845 215 5000.

Are the prices quoted on your website the lowest you offer?

Yes, we always publish our most competitive rates.

Will the prices set out in the Smart tariff be the same throughout my contract?

All customers with smart meters installed are protected against any wholesale rises in gas and electricity for the first three months of joining us. The tariff is variable from this point onwards.

Will you notify me if your prices change and what notice will you give me?

Yes. Any amendments to your chosen tariff will, where practical, be communicated to you within a minimum of ten days. If the change to your tariff is to your significant disadvantage, when compared to the rest of the industry, subject to clause 2.3 of our Terms and Conditions, you may terminate the contract.

Is there a termination charge?

If you are on a two year contract and have been with first:utility for less than two years then there is a cancellation fee of £50 per utility (£50 for electricity and £50 for gas.) If you are not on the 2 year contract then there is no cancellation fee. If you are unsure whether this fee will apply to you please call customer services on 0845 215 5000 quoting your account number and they will be able to tell you.

Can I take advantage of your cheap electricity and gas without having a smart meter installed?

Yes, with our iSave tariff, available to all regions outside of the East and West Midlands.