Variable tariff

Variable tariff is an energy import tariff where the unit rate, standing charge or both can change over time instead of being fixed for a set contract period. In domestic energy bills it often means a standard variable or default tariff, where rates can move with energy-market conditions and may be limited by Ofgem's price cap if the tariff is covered by it. It affects the price paid for imported gas or electricity, but it is separate from a fixed tariff, a dynamic half-hourly smart tariff, export tariffs, SEG payments, export MPAN setup, smart-meter readings, DNO approval and device-control settings.