Infrared heating is an energy-efficient and cost-effective alternative to traditional heating systems, to maximise savings, choosing the right electricity tariff is crucial. With energy prices fluctuating and new tariffs emerging, it’s important to find the best option that suits your heating habits and overall electricity use.
In this guide, we’ll explore different electricity tariffs and help you determine which one is best suited for infrared heating.
Why Tariff Choice Matters for Infrared Heating
Unlike gas central heating, infrared heating runs on electricity, meaning your heating costs are directly affected by your electricity tariff. The right tariff can help you:
✅ Reduce energy costs
✅ Make the most of off-peak pricing
✅ Optimise heating with renewable energy sources
Infrared heaters are highly efficient, converting nearly 100% of the electricity into heat, but electricity costs per unit (kWh) can vary significantly depending on your tariff.
Types of Electricity Tariffs for Infrared Heating
- Standard Variable Tariff (SVT) – Not Ideal
A Standard Variable Tariff is the default tariff set by your energy supplier. It follows the market price of electricity, meaning your bills can fluctuate.
🟢 Pros: No exit fees, flexible
🔴 Cons: Typically the most expensive option, not ideal for consistent heating
❌ Verdict: Avoid if possible—infrared heating is best on a stable, lower-cost tariff.
- Fixed-Rate Tariff – Good for Stability
A fixed-rate tariff locks in your electricity price for 12–36 months, meaning you won’t be affected by market price changes.
🟢 Pros: Predictable costs, protection from price hikes
🔴 Cons: No savings from off-peak rates, exit fees if switching early
✅ Verdict: A good choice for budget-conscious users who want to avoid fluctuating energy prices.
- Economy 7 or Economy 10 – Great for Night-Time Heating
These tariffs offer cheaper electricity rates during off-peak hours (usually at night) and higher rates during the day.⏳ Economy 7: 7 hours of off-peak electricity (typically 12 am – 7 am)⏳ Economy 10: 10 hours of off-peak electricity (varies by supplier)
🟢 Pros: Cheaper rates at night—ideal if you use storage heaters or run infrared heating overnight
🔴 Cons: Higher daytime rates, requires careful scheduling of heating use
✅ Verdict: Great if you can heat your home during off-peak hours and store the heat efficiently.
- Time-of-Use Tariffs (Agile Tariffs) – Ideal for Smart Homes
These tariffs offer dynamic pricing, meaning electricity costs vary throughout the day based on grid demand. Octopus Agile is a popular example.
🟢 Pros: Cheapest rates during low-demand periods, great for homes with battery storage
🔴 Cons: Prices fluctuate daily, requires a smart meter and flexible usage habits
✅ Verdict: Best for tech-savvy homeowners with smart home systems and battery storage.
- Green Energy Tariffs – Best for Sustainability
Some suppliers offer 100% renewable energy tariffs, which can align with a low-carbon home heating system.
🟢 Pros: Environmentally friendly, supports net-zero goals
🔴 Cons: Prices may be slightly higher than standard tariffs
✅ Verdict: A great choice if sustainability is a priority, especially if paired with solar panels.
Best Tariff for Your Setup
| Your Situation | Best Tariff Option |
| Want stable pricing | Fixed-rate tariff |
| Use heating mainly at night | Economy 7 or Economy 10 |
| Have solar panels & battery storage | Time-of-use or Agile tariff |
| Want a low-carbon solution | Green energy tariff |
Choose Wisely for Maximum Savings
Selecting the right tariff can make a big difference in your heating costs. If you have infrared heating, consider:
✔️ Economy 7 or Economy 10 if you heat your home at night
✔️ Time-of-use tariffs if you have smart controls or battery storage
✔️ Fixed-rate tariffs if you want price stability
✔️ Green energy tariffs if you want a sustainable option
The advice in this blog post is for illustration only. Please consult with your energy supplier to ensure that you are selecting the right tariff for your home or business. NexGen cannot be held accountable for any choices made by using information in this blog post.