Don’t get burnt by rising energy bills

What’s changing?

Starting October 1st, 2025, energy bills will go up slightly. The typical household with both gas and electricity can expect to pay around £1,755 a year, which is an increase of £35 from the current £1,720.

Just remember, the price cap doesn’t limit your total bill. It simply sets the maximum amount energy companies can charge for each unit of gas and electricity, plus a daily fee. This figure is based on the average household using both gas and electricity and paying by Direct Debit over a year. If you use more energy than average, your bill will likely be higher, and if you use less, it will be lower.

Make sure you’re on the best possible tariff

Ofgem estimates that roughly 22 million UK households are currently on Standard Variable Rate energy tariffs, meaning they’re paying the highest price their supplier can legally charge. Many of these households could save money by switching to a cheaper energy plan.

TotallyMoney reports that families could save around £271 a year by moving to a less expensive energy plan. Alistair Douglas, CEO of TotallyMoney, explains that comparing different energy companies is quick and won’t interrupt your service. He suggests checking if you’re eligible to switch, especially if you haven’t changed providers in the past year, as you could start saving money right away.

To shield yourself from possible energy price increases in the future, you could switch to a fixed-rate plan. This locks in your energy price for a specific amount of time.

According to Tom Lyon, director at Compare the Market, energy price predictions have shifted – while initially expected to fall, some now suggest prices may actually increase this autumn. The introduction of fixed-rate energy deals, which lock in a set price for a certain time, can make budgeting easier and potentially help households find cheaper rates than the current price cap. If you’re considering switching energy providers, it’s also worth checking if they charge a fee for leaving a tariff early.

Make your home more energy efficient

As a movie critic, I’m always looking for impactful changes, and believe it or not, that applies to your energy bill too! The good news is, cutting back on energy doesn’t require a massive overhaul or a huge expense. Small adjustments can really add up and save you money – it’s a surprisingly simple plot twist!

There are easy ways to reduce energy waste at home. Try sealing gaps around windows and doors, ensuring your radiators work properly by bleeding them, switching to LED light bulbs, and using your appliances wisely – like washing clothes at a lower temperature, such as 30°C instead of 40°C.

Get help with your bills

If someone in your household receives certain benefits, you could get £150 off your energy bill this winter through the Warm Home Discount.

I was so pleased to learn about this support! It means that if you’re already getting help with housing costs or because you’re on a low income – things like Housing Benefit, Employment and Support Allowance, Jobseeker’s Allowance, Income Support, Pension Credit, or Universal Credit – you should automatically get a discount on your energy bills. They said everyone who qualifies will get a letter by January 2026, but just in case you don’t, you can call 0800 030 9322 to check if you’re eligible. It’s good to know there’s help available!

If your birthday is before September 22, 1959, and you earn less than £35,000 a year, you may be eligible for a Winter Fuel Payment to help with your heating bills. You could receive £200, or £300 if you’re 80 or older. If you already receive your State Pension or other benefits directly into your bank account, that’s where you’ll get this payment, likely in November or December.