How much does an electric oven cost to run?
A typical electric oven costs about 39.5p per meal to run. At 5 meals a week that is £1.97 a week, or £102.65 a year, based on 1,500 W for 1 hour (1.50 kWh) at 26.32p per kWh.
Adjust for your electric oven
Worked example
1,500 W is 1.5 kW. Running for 1 hour uses 1.5 × 1 = 1.50 kWh. At 26.32p per kWh that costs 39.5p.
Cooking five times a week at this level costs about £102.65 a year. Trimming a quarter off your oven time would save around £25.66.
How to cut the cost
A fan oven reaches temperature faster and can run cooler. Cook several dishes at once, switch off a few minutes before the end to use the leftover heat, and use a microwave or air fryer for small meals.
Questions
How much does an electric oven cost per hour?
A typical oven averages around 1.5 kW over an hour as the thermostat cycles, which costs 39.5p at 26.32p per kWh.
Why is the average lower than the oven's rating?
The rating is the maximum. Once the oven is up to temperature the heating elements cycle on and off, so average use over an hour is lower.
Other appliances
Electricity rate: Ofgem energy price cap, 1 October to 31 December 2026, Great Britain average, Direct Debit, default tariff: 26.32p per kWh. Your own tariff and region may differ, so change the rate above to match your bill. Appliance figures are typical estimates; your appliance's energy label or manual is more accurate. Last checked 2026-11-03. Next review: January 2027, when Ofgem announces the next quarter's cap.