Energy bills to rise more than expected – here’s how you can cut costs this autumn

Millions of households will see their electricity and gas bills rise by 2% from October, under the latest price cap announced by energy regulator Ofgem.

This rise is slightly more than expected, meaning if you use a typical amount of energy, your annual bill will go up by £35, bringing your total to £1,755 a year.

When does the new price cap start?

The new cap kicks in from 1 October 2025 and will last until 31 December 2025.

What is the energy price cap?

The energy price cap is a limit on what your energy supplier can charge you for each unit of gas and electricity. It includes both the standing charge and unit rates.

The default tariff is the most basic tariff a supplier offers. The most common is a ‘standard variable’ tariff, which means the amount you pay can go up or down in line with price changes. Your supplier should notify you of price changes in advance.  

The cap is reviewed every three months and was introduced in 2019 to protect customers from volatile, fast-rising wholesale energy prices, like those we’ve seen in recent years due to global events, such as the pandemic and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Because the UK has less gas storage than other parts of Europe, we often have to buy at higher prices and that affects what you pay.

How you can reduce energy costs this autumn

As the days get shorter and the temperature dips, your heating is likely to come back on and your energy bills will go up. But there are simple ways you can keep costs down before the cold hits.

Insulate your home

Good insulation keeps the heat in and helps cut your bills. Check your loft, walls and floors and upgrade insulation if needed.

Seal draughts

Use draught excluders, weatherstripping or caulk to seal up gaps around doors, windows, and skirting boards.

Bleed your radiators

If your radiators are cold at the top but hot at the bottom, they need bleeding. Do this before you turn on your heating for the autumn so they work efficiently.

Move furniture away from radiators

If you've got sofas or furniture blocking your radiators, move them to help heat flow more freely through your home.

Lower your boiler’s flow temperature

If you have a combi boiler, reducing the flow temperature (the water temperature sent to your radiators) can help your boiler run more efficiently and save you money.

Unplug summer appliances

Pack away your fans and aircon units properly. Switch them off at the mains, not just the plug, as they can still draw power even when they’re off.

Stock up on winter warmers

Get your jumpers, blankets and winter duvets ready. It’s often cheaper to heat yourself than your whole home. But remember, if the temperature drops below 15°C, the NHS recommends turning on your heating to stay safe and well.

Need help paying your energy bills?

If you're finding things tough, help is available. Here are some of the options you can explore.

Home improvement grants

You might qualify for support to make your home more energy efficient, including things like a new boiler or better insulation. Look into:

• Energy Company Obligation
• Great British Insulation Scheme
• Boiler Upgrade Scheme
• Connected for Warmth

Speak to your energy supplier

If you’re struggling, contact your supplier. They might be able to offer:

• grants
• payment plans
• advice on managing your account

Household support fund (HSF)

You may be able to get extra help with energy costs and food through your local council via the HSF.

You can apply for the HSF through your local council.  

Warm home discount

The warm home discount is a one-off discount on your electricity bill. It’s applied automatically if you're eligible so there’s no need to apply.

Winter fuel payment

If you’ve reached state pension age, you could receive:

• £200 (under 80)
• £300 (80 or over)

Fuel vouchers

If you’re using a prepayment meter and struggling to top up, you may be able to get a fuel voucher. Contact:

• your local council
• a food bank
• Citizens Advice

For more information on steps to take if you’ve fallen behind with your gas and electricity bill payments, read our guide on what to do about energy arrears.