Unit rate & kWh explained (UK)

Unit rate is the price per kilowatt‑hour (p/kWh). Your usage cost is kWh used × unit rate. Big jumps usually come from rate changes or catch‑up after estimated reads.

Quick checks

• Find the unit rate (p/kWh) for electricity and gas (they differ).
• Confirm if there were multiple unit rates in one bill (rate change mid‑period).
• Check if your reads were estimated (catch‑up later).

Why it happens

• Fixed deal ended and you moved to a higher standard tariff.
• Rate changed mid‑billing period (two rates on one statement).
• Estimated reads followed by an actual read (catch‑up bill).

What to do next

1. Run a quick estimate: kWh × unit rate (p/kWh).
2. Add standing charge: p/day × days billed.
3. If totals still don’t match, ask for a breakdown and reading history.

Tools & next reads

• kWh → cost calculator
• Standing charge explained
• Dispute steps (UK)

FAQs

What does p/kWh mean?

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It means pence per kilowatt‑hour — the price for each unit of energy you consume.

Why do I have two unit rates on one bill?

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Usually because your tariff/rates changed during the billing period; the supplier splits usage across the two rates.

Is kWh the same for gas and electricity?

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kWh is the same unit, but gas bills may include a conversion from volume (m³) to kWh.