Quick answer: router running costs
- BT's user guide for the Smart Hub 2 gives 14.04 W on, 8.48 W idle and 0.036 W off.1
- Left on all year at 14.04 W: £32.37. At idle: £19.55.
- Other routers differ: check the maker's guide. The BT figures are from its 2019 guide.
- Last checked: 28 October 2026.
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A year's cost
24 hours a day, 365 days.
| Mode | A year |
|---|---|
| On (14.04 W) | £32.37 |
| Idle (8.48 W) | £19.55 |
Who these figures cover
Costs use the Ofgem price cap average for England, Scotland and Wales, 26.32p per kWh by Direct Debit, 1 October to 31 December 2026. Your region and tariff change it.2
HMRC: “The temporary zero rate applies from 1 October 2026 to 30 June 2027.” The Budget on 28 October 2026 extended it from 31 March (announced; the legislation is due in early 2027). Gas stays at 5% VAT.3 In Northern Ireland, use the unit rate on your bill.