Help topics
1. Why are energy prices increasing?
Wholesale gas prices have reached record highs in recent years. These high prices have been driven by a combination of factors, including the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz due to the Iran war.
2. What is the Energy Price Cap?
The energy price cap is a limit set by the regulator Ofgem on how much energy suppliers in the UK can charge households on standard (default) tariffs for each unit of gas and electricity, plus the daily standing charge.
From 1 April to 30 June 2026, the price cap will be £1,641 per year. This has gone down by £117 compared to the last price cap period.
The energy price cap only caps prices and not energy bills. Bills will be based on actual usage, so savings could be higher or lower depending on the size of a home, how well it’s insulated and how much energy is used.
It covers customers on standard variable tariffs and prepayment meters.
Ofgem reviews and resets the cap quarterly (Jan, Apr, Jul, Oct) based on market conditions.
3. How can I reduce my energy use to save money on my bills?
Reducing how much gas and electricity you use at home can help you save money on your bills.
You can find practical tips on how to reduce your energy usage while making sure you and your family stay safe, warm and well at home on our Reducing your energy usage page.
4. What do I do if I can’t pay my energy bills?
If you’re struggling to afford your energy bills, contact your gas and electricity suppliers as soon as possible.
Visit our Help with your energy bills page for more information about what to do if you can’t afford to pay your energy bills.
5. How are you helping households during the cost-of-living crisis?
Together with our partners, we’re helping households that are struggling to stay safe and warm at home because of the cost-of-living crisis.
You can find full details of how we could help you and your family this winter on our Helping communities in crisis page.