How much more will your energy cost this winter?

Ofgem has confirmed the price cap will rise by 4% from 1 October 2026. For a typical household using gas and electricity and paying by Direct Debit, that takes the yearly bill from £1,663 to £1,723, or around £5 more a month.

The new rates apply until 31 December 2026, when the cap changes again.

Not yet. Ofgem is due to announce the price cap for January to March 2027 in late November.

Energy analysts at Cornwall Insight currently forecast a further rise of around 9%, which would take a typical yearly bill to about £1,872. They've said this forecast is very likely to change as wholesale prices move, so our calculator uses 9% as a guide only.

Ofgem says most of the increase comes from higher wholesale gas prices, caused by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and volatile global gas markets. Low gas storage levels across Europe have also pushed prices up.

No. Gas bills are rising by around 8% in October, while electricity bills are staying broadly the same. This is because the government is removing the 5% VAT from electricity bills between 1 October 2026 and 31 March 2027.

Our calculator applies the overall 4% rise to both fuels to keep things simple. If you use a lot of gas, your increase could be higher than the figure shown. If you only use electricity, it's likely to be lower.

No. The cap limits the price suppliers can charge for each unit of energy and the daily standing charge. It does not cap your total bill, so if you use more energy you will pay more.

The £1,723 figure is what a typical household would pay over a year. Your own bill could be higher or lower depending on your home, your region and how you pay.

Not while your fix lasts. Around 11 million households are on fixed tariffs and won't be affected by October's rise. The VAT cut on electricity should still be applied to your bill automatically by your supplier.

When your fixed deal ends, you'll usually move on to your supplier's standard variable tariff, which is covered by the price cap, unless you choose a new deal.

It depends on your circumstances. Ofgem says some fixed deals are currently available at £100 or more below October's price cap, and a fix gives you certainty if prices rise again in January. But if prices fall, you could end up paying more than you would on a capped tariff.

Before you switch, compare deals across the market and check for exit fees.

If you don't have a smart meter, it's a good idea to submit a reading on or just before 1 October. This helps make sure the energy you used before the rise is charged at the lower rates, rather than estimated.

If you have a working smart meter, your readings are sent automatically so you don't need to do anything.

Contact your supplier as soon as you can. They have to work with you to agree a payment plan you can afford, and many have hardship funds or grants that could help.

You may also qualify for the Warm Home Discount, a £150 discount applied to electricity bills between October and March for people on certain benefits. Most eligible households receive it automatically. Your local council may be able to offer extra support too.

Energy arrears are a priority debt, so it's important not to ignore them. Speak to your supplier first, and if you're juggling other debts as well, getting advice early could stop things getting worse.

Our advisors can talk you through your options, including the pros and cons of each one. Advice is free but fees and disadvantages may apply if you enter a debt help solution. You can also get free, impartial debt advice from MoneyHelper.