Overview

• From 1 October, the 2% cap increase affects customers on standard variable tariffs, with British Gas warning those on variable rates should expect higher unit prices unless they switch.
• Several big suppliers are offering fixes below the cap, including an E.ON Next 12‑month deal at about £1,577, roughly £143 under the current cap and £178 below October’s level, though exit fees of £50 per fuel apply.
• Ofgem’s cap limits unit rates, not total bills; the average dual‑fuel figure reflects typical use, and prepayment customers face a lower benchmark of about £1,707.
• Experts say simple changes can offset costs by up to roughly £300 a year, including turning thermostats down a degree, sealing draughts, switching to LEDs, smarter cooking and laundry habits, and bleeding radiators.
• Smart meter users who report savings estimate about £176 a year, and households struggling can seek help through the Winter Fuel Payment, the £150 Warm Home Discount, the Priority Services Register, supplier hardship funds, and free debt advice or the Energy Ombudsman.