| Energy Bills |
Octopus Go and Intelligent Octopus are two EV tariffs. Octopus Go offers a fixed off-peak window, while Intelligent Octopus uses smart scheduling. The typical dual fuel bill under the Oct-Dec 2026 price cap is £1,723, but this is not a saving on these tariffs.
Octopus Go offers a fixed off-peak window, while Intelligent Octopus uses smart scheduling; the Oct-Dec 2026 price cap typical bill is £1,723.
KEY FACTS
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LAST REVIEWED 2026-09-06
How does Octopus Go work?
Octopus Go is a time-of-use tariff that offers a fixed off-peak window, typically 4 hours overnight, during which electricity is cheaper. This is designed for EV owners who can charge their vehicle during that period. The rest of the day is charged at a higher rate.
The tariff requires a smart meter to track usage accurately. The exact rates are not published here, but they are typically lower than the standard variable tariff.
To check if Octopus Go is suitable, consider your charging habits. If you can charge your EV overnight, you may benefit from the lower rate. However, if you need to charge during the day, the higher rate could offset any savings.
It is important to compare the total cost with your current tariff. The price cap for Oct-Dec 2026 is £1,723 for typical dual fuel, but this is not a direct comparison for EV tariffs. Use your actual usage to estimate costs.
How does Intelligent Octopus work?
Intelligent Octopus is a smart tariff that uses automation to schedule EV charging when it is cheapest and greenest. It requires a compatible EV or charger that can be controlled by Octopus. The tariff offers a lower rate for charging during scheduled slots, which are not fixed but determined by grid conditions.
The system learns your driving habits and ensures your car is charged by a set time. It may charge outside the typical off-peak window if it is cheaper or greener. This flexibility can lead to lower costs, but it requires trust in the automation.
Eligibility depends on having a compatible vehicle or charger. The list includes many popular models, but not all. Check the compatibility list before applying.
Intelligent Octopus also offers a higher rate for general electricity use, but the charging rate is significantly lower. The exact rates are not published here, but they are competitive.
| Supplier | Owner | Standard variable tariff | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| British Gas | Centrica | not published | supplier site |
| E.ON Next | E.ON | Next Flex | supplier site |
| EDF | EDF | not published | supplier site |
| Octopus Energy | Octopus | Flexible Octopus | supplier site |
| OVO | OVO | not published | supplier site |
| ScottishPower | Iberdrola | not published | supplier site |
| So Energy | ESB | not published | supplier site |
| Utilita | Utilita | not published | supplier site |
| Utility Warehouse | Telecom Plus | not published | supplier site |
| Fuse Energy | Fuse | not published | supplier site |
| Outfox the Market | Outfox | not published | supplier site |
| Rebel Energy | Rebel | not published | supplier site |
What are the direct rate comparisons for April 2026?
Direct rate comparisons for April 2026 are not available in the provided data. However, both tariffs typically have lower off-peak rates compared to standard variable tariffs. The price cap for Oct-Dec 2026 is £1,723 for typical dual fuel, but this is not a direct comparison.
To compare, you need to know your electricity usage and charging patterns. For example, if you charge 100 kWh per month, the difference in rates could be significant. But without exact rates, a precise comparison is not possible.
Check the Octopus Energy website for current rates. They may vary by region and time of year. The price cap is a benchmark, but EV tariffs are often cheaper for off-peak usage.
Consider the standing charge and any exit fees. Some tariffs have no exit fees, but others may charge. Read the terms carefully.
What are the eligibility and compatibility requirements?
Eligibility for Octopus Go is generally open to any household with a smart meter and an EV. However, Intelligent Octopus requires a compatible EV or charger. The compatibility list includes models from Tesla, Nissan, and others, but not all.
To check compatibility, visit the Octopus website and enter your vehicle or charger details. If your device is not listed, you may not be able to join Intelligent Octopus. Octopus Go is more flexible in this regard.
Both tariffs require a smart meter to track usage. If you do not have one, Octopus can install it at no cost. The installation may take a few weeks.
There is no exit fee on either tariff, but this can change. Always check the latest terms.
What can go wrong with Intelligent Octopus?
Intelligent Octopus relies on automation, which can sometimes fail. For example, if the system does not schedule a charge, your car may not be ready when you need it. This can happen if the app is not working or if there is a connectivity issue.
Another issue is that the off-peak window is not fixed, so you may not know when charging will occur. This can be inconvenient if you need to plan your electricity usage.
Some users report that the system does not always charge to the desired level. This can be due to incorrect settings or a lack of communication between the car and the app.
To mitigate these issues, check the app regularly and ensure your car is set to allow smart charging. If problems persist, contact Octopus support.
How do heat pumps, batteries, and the off-peak window interact?
Heat pumps and batteries can be used with both tariffs, but the off-peak window is primarily for EV charging. Octopus Go offers a fixed window, which may not align with heat pump usage. Intelligent Octopus can schedule charging and other appliances to use cheaper electricity.
If you have a battery, you can charge it during off-peak and use it during peak times. This can reduce your overall electricity cost. However, the rates for these tariffs are not specifically designed for battery storage.
The off-peak window for Octopus Go is typically 4 hours, which may not be enough to fully charge a large battery. Intelligent Octopus may offer more flexibility.
Consider your total electricity usage, not just EV charging. The price cap for Oct-Dec 2026 is £1,723 for typical dual fuel, but this is not a direct comparison.
| Cap period | Typical dual fuel, Direct Debit | Change | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jul to Sep 2026 | £1,663 | Ofgem | |
| Oct to Dec 2026 | £1,723 | 4% | Ofgem |
| From 1 Jan 2027 | to be announced late November 2026 | Ofgem |
Which tariff should you choose?
Choosing between Octopus Go and Intelligent Octopus depends on your needs. If you want a simple, predictable off-peak window, Octopus Go may be suitable. If you prefer automation and have a compatible car, Intelligent Octopus could offer lower costs.
Consider your driving habits. If you charge at night regularly, Octopus Go's fixed window is convenient. If your schedule is unpredictable, Intelligent Octopus can adapt.
Check the compatibility list for your EV. If your car is not compatible, Octopus Go is the only option.
Compare the rates and standing charges. The price cap for Oct-Dec 2026 is £1,723, but this is not a direct comparison. Use your actual usage to estimate costs.
What should you check before signing up to either tariff?
Before signing up, check your current tariff and usage. Estimate your annual electricity consumption, including EV charging. Use this to compare costs.
Check the rates for both tariffs on the Octopus website. They may vary by region. Also, check the standing charge and any exit fees.
Ensure you have a smart meter. If not, Octopus can install one. The installation is free, but it may take time.
Read the terms and conditions carefully. Some tariffs have specific requirements, such as a minimum contract length.
What are the common questions about Octopus Go and Intelligent Octopus?
Common questions include: Can I switch between tariffs? Yes, but you may need to wait a certain period. Are there exit fees? Typically no, but check. How do I know if the car is compatible? Check the list.
Another question is whether the off-peak window is enough to charge your car. It depends on your battery size and charger speed. For example, a 50 kWh battery with a 7 kW charger takes about 7 hours, so a 4-hour window may not be enough.
Intelligent Octopus may charge for longer if needed, but it is not guaranteed.
For more details, visit the Octopus website or contact customer support.
Glossary: the terms on an energy bill explained
Off-peak window: A period when electricity is cheaper, typically overnight. Octopus Go offers a fixed window, while Intelligent Octopus schedules flexibly.
Smart meter: A device that records electricity usage in real time, enabling time-of-use tariffs. Required for both Octopus Go and Intelligent Octopus.
Time-of-use tariff: A tariff where the price of electricity varies by time of day. Both Octopus Go and Intelligent Octopus are examples.
Compatibility list: A list of EV models and chargers that work with Intelligent Octopus. Not all vehicles are compatible.
Standing charge: A fixed daily fee that covers the cost of connecting to the grid. It is separate from the unit rate.
Exit fee: A charge applied if you leave a tariff before a specified period. Many Octopus tariffs have no exit fee.
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Disclaimer. This guide is editorial information drawn from primary sources. It is not financial, legal or tax advice and does not recommend any provider. Figures are those published by the named sources on the review date and may change. Kael Tripton Ltd receives no commission, referral fee or lead payment from any provider named on this page. |
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between Octopus Go and Intelligent Octopus?
Octopus Go offers a fixed off-peak window, typically 4 hours, during which electricity is cheaper. Intelligent Octopus uses smart scheduling to charge your EV when it is cheapest and greenest, which may not be a fixed window. Intelligent Octopus requires a compatible EV or charger, while Octopus Go is more flexible. Both are from Octopus Energy.
Can I use Octopus Go with any electric car?
Yes, Octopus Go is generally available to any household with a smart meter and an EV. There is no compatibility list for the car itself. However, you need a smart meter to track usage. The tariff offers a fixed off-peak window, so you can charge your car during that time.
Does Intelligent Octopus require a specific charger?
Yes, Intelligent Octopus requires a compatible EV or charger that can be controlled by Octopus. The compatibility list includes models from Tesla, Nissan, and others. If your device is not listed, you may not be able to join. Check the list on the Octopus website before applying.
Can I switch between Octopus Go and Intelligent Octopus?
Yes, you can switch between the two tariffs, but you may need to wait a certain period, such as 30 days. There are typically no exit fees. However, Intelligent Octopus requires a compatible EV or charger. Check the terms on the Octopus website for any restrictions.
Are there any exit fees for these tariffs?
Generally, Octopus Go and Intelligent Octopus have no exit fees. However, this can change, so it is important to check the latest terms. If you switch to another supplier, you may be subject to their exit fees. Always read the contract before signing up.
How does the price cap affect these tariffs?
The price cap is a maximum unit rate for standard variable tariffs, not for fixed or time-of-use tariffs like Octopus Go and Intelligent Octopus. The Oct-Dec 2026 price cap is £1,723 for typical dual fuel, but this is not a direct comparison. These tariffs may be cheaper for off-peak usage.
