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Standard electricity tariffs Ireland

A standard tariff charges the same unit rate per kWh regardless of when you use electricity. It is the simplest and most common type of electricity tariff in Ireland.

Who is a Standard tariff for?

Standard tariffs are best for households that use most of their electricity during the day — working families who are not at home overnight, apartments without space for appliances to run overnight, and anyone who doesn't own or plan to own an electric vehicle.

How does it work?

You pay a single unit rate (in cent per kWh) for every unit of electricity you use, regardless of the time of day. Your annual cost is: (total kWh × unit rate) + (standing charge × 365 days) − any cashback.

Advantages

  • Predictable billing — the rate is the same day and night
  • No need to shift usage to off-peak hours
  • Good for households with low night-time consumption
  • No smart meter required

Disadvantages

  • Higher rate per kWh than the night rate on NightSaver or EV tariffs
  • No financial benefit for overnight appliance use

Frequently asked questions

What is the cheapest standard tariff in Ireland?

As of mid-2026, Yuno Energy offers the cheapest standard tariff at 36.88c/kWh with a 65.50c/day standing charge. Always verify current rates before switching.

Should I switch from standard to NightSaver?

Only if you genuinely use a significant portion of your electricity between 11pm and 8am. NightSaver has a higher day rate — if you don't shift usage to night, you'll pay more overall.

How is my annual cost calculated?

Annual cost = (annual kWh × unit rate in cent ÷ 100) + (standing charge in cent ÷ 100 × 365) − cashback.

Other tariff types

Nightsaver tariffsSmart tariffsEv tariffs

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