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Energy price cap and what you need to know

Herman

Written by Herman, senior marketing executive

The energy price cap will increase by 13.5% from £1,477 a year to £1,663 from 1st July. This is for a typical household with electric and gas that pays by direct debit.

Remember, the rates are only capped. If you use more energy, you will pay more. The price cap only lasts for three months and is predicted to rise again in October. 

What is the energy price cap?

Some people think the energy cap is the maximum you could spend on energy bills per year, but this is not the case. It is the limit an energy company can charge you for standing charges and per unit of energy you use.

Your energy bills could end up being more or less than this depending on your energy usage. Every household is different, so please keep an eye on your usage.

The energy price cap applies when you are on a standard tariff that you pay by direct debit, standard credit, or a prepayment meter, it does not apply when:

  • You are on a fixed-term energy tariff
  • You are on a special time or green energy tariff

What can I expect to pay?

The average price per unit you will pay:

GasElectricity
7.33p per KWh26.11 per KWh
Standing charge: 29.04p per dayStanding charge: 57.19p per day

What is the daily standing charge?

The daily standing charge is a fixed daily charge you pay for energy no matter how much you use. Standing charges can also differ slightly based on your region.

Who is my gas and electricity supplier? 

It is important to find out who your energy supplier is so you can work out who to pay and what energy tariff you are currently on.

Use the following ways to find out who your current energy supplier is:

  • Gas supplier. Use the Find My Supplier free service or call the Meter Number Helpline on 0870 608 1524 (calls cost 7p per minute).
  • Electric supplier. Contact your local electricity distribution company to find out who your electricity supplier is.

How to save on your energy bills in the home

Here are a few simple ways you can save on energy in your home and reduce your energy bill:

  • Turning your thermostat down by just one degree could cut your heating bills by a whopping 10%
  • Do not overfill the kettle, it might seem small but only boiling what you need will help save money and energy
  • Never leave your TVs, computers, or stereos on standby, as this can waste a surprising amount of electricity
  • Cook food with the lids on. This saves heat and allows you to cook food faster using slightly lower temperatures, meaning you use less energy.
  • Turn off lights in rooms you are not using. It is an easy thing to forget and can make all the difference to your bills.

You can also learn more about help with your energy bills. 

(Updated with current information July 2026)

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Help with money

  • Energy advice - free services to help reduce your energy bills:

- Home Energy Scotland or call 0800 808 2282 (Scotland)

- LEAP online or call 0800 060 7567 (England)

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