Overview

• From October 1, the price cap for a typical dual‑fuel home paying by Direct Debit increases 2% to £1,755, adding roughly £35 a year or £2.93 a month.
• Comparison services urge those on standard variable tariffs to lock in fixed deals today, with estimates of up to about £271 in annual savings and current offers ranging roughly £1,429 to £1,643.
• Advisers say to check exit fees, standing charges and smart‑meter compatibility, and note switching can take up to 21 days, or five working days under the Energy Switch Guarantee.
• British Gas launches an Energy Support Fund on October 1 offering up to £2,000 for eligible credit and prepay customers, with applications reviewed in 4–6 weeks and credits applied within two weeks of approval.
• Uswitch is offering 25 hours of free electricity in November for users who connect a smart meter via its app, with five‑hour weekend slots and a signup deadline of October 31.