How to choose the best gas rate

• Always choose a no-commitment rate: the gas market can change quickly and the ability to switch without a penalty is worth more than any attractive initial discount.

• Use the TUR as a price reference: if the free-market rate you're offered exceeds the TUR price in force that quarter, it isn't competitive; swap it for another free-market offer.

• Assess your real consumption before comparing: a home with only a cooker and hot water uses between 500 and 1,000 kWh/year; with gas heating, consumption can exceed 10,000 kWh/year. The optimal rate type differs in each case.

• Review the fixed term (€/day) and the variable term (€/kWh) separately: at low consumption, the fixed term can account for 50-60% of the final bill, so a low fixed term matters more than a low price per kWh if you use little gas.

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