UK Energy Bills in 2026: How the Middle East Crisis Is Pushing Prices Higher and What You Can Do

UK energy bills 2026 — What Is Happening to UK Energy Prices Right Now

If you have noticed your energy bills creeping upward again in early 2026, you are not imagining it. After a brief period of relative calm following the worst of the post-pandemic energy crisis, UK households are once again facing rising costs for gas and electricity.

The confluence of geopolitical instability, persistent inflation, and structural weaknesses in the UK energy market has created a perfect storm that is hitting household budgets hard. Read on for our complete UK Energy Bills in 2026 breakdown.

As of March 2026, energy bills remain 14 per cent higher in real terms than they were before the Russia-Ukraine war began in 2022. While the Ofgem price cap brought some relief over the course of 2024 and 2025, the direction of travel in 2026 is once again pointing upward. The primary catalyst this time is the escalating conflict in the Middle East, which has sent global oil and gas prices surging since late February.

The knock-on effects are already visible at the petrol pump. Diesel prices have jumped by 19.7 pence per litre between late February and mid-March 2026, while unleaded petrol has risen by 9.5 pence per litre over the same period. These increases feed directly into the cost of transporting goods, manufacturing products, and ultimately heating homes.

For UK consumers, the question is no longer whether prices will rise but by how much and for how long. Understanding the forces behind these increases is the first step toward protecting your household finances.

If you have not already reviewed your energy tariff and usage, now is the time to act. Our complete guide to cutting your energy bills in 2026 covers the fundamentals of switching and saving.

How the Middle East Conflict Is Driving Up Gas and Oil Costs

The escalation of hostilities involving Iran and several regional actors since late February 2026 has injected significant uncertainty into global energy markets. The Middle East remains one of the world’s most critical energy-producing regions, and any disruption — real or anticipated — tends to ripple through commodity markets within days.

Why the Middle East Matters for UK Energy

The United Kingdom does not import the majority of its oil and gas directly from the Middle East. However, energy is priced on global markets, which means that supply disruptions anywhere in the world affect what UK consumers pay. When traders anticipate that Iranian oil exports could be restricted, or that shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz might face disruption, they bid up the price of oil and gas futures across the board.

This is precisely what has happened since late February 2026. The Iran-related conflict has escalated in several ways:

• Military operations in and around the Persian Gulf have raised fears of shipping lane closures, threatening approximately 20 per cent of global oil transit
• Sanctions enforcement has tightened, reducing the flow of Iranian crude to global markets
• Speculative trading has amplified the price impact, as futures markets price in worst-case scenarios
• Insurance premiums for tankers operating in the region have soared, adding cost at every stage of the supply chain

The Transmission Mechanism to Your Energy Bill

The path from a geopolitical event in the Middle East to a higher gas bill in Manchester or Bristol follows a well-worn route.

Global wholesale gas prices rise first, typically within hours of a major development. These higher wholesale prices then feed into the contracts that UK energy suppliers purchase to meet demand. Under the Ofgem price cap system, these costs are eventually reflected in the cap level, which is reviewed quarterly.

The lag between wholesale price movements and consumer bills means that the full impact of the current crisis may not be felt until the second half of 2026. However, some suppliers offering variable tariffs outside the cap have already begun adjusting their rates. This delay creates both a risk and an opportunity — a window in which consumers can take action before the worst of the price increases arrives.

Comparisons with the 2022 Energy Crisis

It is worth noting that the current situation, while serious, differs from the 2022 energy shock in several important respects. The UK has diversified some of its gas supply sources since 2022, increased LNG import capacity, and invested in renewable generation.

Gas storage levels entering 2026 were also healthier than in 2021. However, the fundamental vulnerability remains: the UK is a net energy importer in a world where supply can be disrupted by events thousands of miles away.

The Ofgem Price Cap: What to Expect After April 2026

The Ofgem energy price cap remains the primary mechanism through which wholesale market conditions translate into household bills. Understanding how the cap works — and where it is heading — is essential for anyone trying to plan their energy spending.

The April 2026 Price Cap

The Ofgem price cap for the second quarter of 2026 is expected to land at approximately £1,641 per year for a typical dual-fuel household paying by direct debit. This figure represents a modest reduction from the previous quarter and was largely set before the full impact of the Middle East escalation fed through to wholesale markets.

It is important to understand that the price cap is not a cap on your total bill. It caps the unit rate and standing charge that suppliers can apply.

If you use more energy than the typical household, you will pay more than the cap figure. Conversely, if you are energy-efficient, you may pay less. The cap figure of £1,641 is based on a household with typical consumption of approximately 11,500 kWh of gas and 2,700 kWh of electricity per year.

We explored the April price cap changes in detail in our earlier article on why the April drop will be short-lived and what to do before July. The core message remains the same: any relief from the April reduction is likely to be temporary.

July 2026 and Beyond

The July 2026 price cap review is where the Middle East crisis is expected to have its most significant impact. Ofgem calculates the cap based on wholesale energy costs observed in the months leading up to each quarterly review. The price spikes that began in late February 2026 will feed directly into the July calculation.

Industry analysts are already forecasting that the July cap could rise by anywhere from 5 to 15 per cent compared to the April level, depending on how the geopolitical situation develops. If the conflict escalates further or proves protracted, the October 2026 cap could rise again, meaning that households would enter winter facing significantly higher bills than they do today.

For the latest information on how the price cap is calculated and what it means for consumers, the Ofgem price cap guidance page provides official explanations and updates.

How Much More Could You Pay by Winter 2026

Putting concrete numbers on future energy bills is inherently uncertain, but examining a range of scenarios helps illustrate what UK households might face.

Scenario One: Conflict Stabilises Quickly

If the Middle East situation de-escalates over the spring and wholesale gas prices return to their early-February levels, the July price cap might rise only modestly — perhaps to around £1,700 to £1,750 per year. In this scenario, the average household would see an increase of roughly £5 to £10 per month compared to April. While unwelcome, this would be manageable for most budgets.

Moreover, understanding UK energy bills 2026 is essential for making the right financial decision.

Scenario Two: Prolonged Instability

If the conflict persists through the summer without major escalation, wholesale gas prices are likely to remain elevated. The July cap could reach £1,800 to £1,850, with the October cap potentially climbing above £1,900.

This would translate to an annual increase of roughly £150 to £250 compared to the April cap level. For a household already stretched by the cost-of-living crisis, this could mean difficult choices between heating and other essentials as winter approaches.

Scenario Three: Major Escalation

In a worst-case scenario involving significant disruption to Middle Eastern energy supplies, the price cap could exceed £2,000 per year by winter 2026. While this would still be below the record highs of 2022-2023, it would represent a sharp reversal of the gradual improvement that households had been experiencing.

The Wider Economic Context

These energy price scenarios must be understood within the broader economic picture. The Bank of England held its base rate at 3.75 per cent on 19 March 2026, reflecting persistent inflationary pressures. CPI inflation stood at 3.0 per cent in February 2026 and is expected to rise further as energy costs feed through the economy.

GDP growth for 2026 has been revised down to just 1.1 per cent, suggesting that the economy lacks the dynamism to absorb higher energy costs easily. For households, this combination of rising prices, elevated interest rates, and sluggish wage growth creates a challenging environment in which every pound saved on energy bills genuinely matters.

Should You Lock In a Fixed Tariff Now

One of the most common questions facing UK energy consumers right now is whether to switch to a fixed-rate tariff before prices climb higher. The answer depends on your circumstances, risk tolerance, and how you expect the market to move.

The Case for Fixing Now

If you believe that energy prices are more likely to rise than fall over the next 12 to 24 months — and the current geopolitical evidence supports that view — then locking in a fixed tariff at today’s rates could save you money over the medium term. A fixed tariff gives you certainty about your unit rates, which makes budgeting easier and protects you against future price cap increases.

The best time to fix is typically before the market has fully priced in anticipated increases. As of late March 2026, some fixed deals are still available at rates close to or slightly above the current price cap level. However, these deals are being withdrawn and repriced regularly as suppliers adjust to the changing wholesale market.

The Case for Staying on a Variable Tariff

Variable tariffs, including those governed by the Ofgem price cap, offer flexibility. If the Middle East crisis resolves more quickly than expected and wholesale prices fall, variable tariff customers would benefit from a lower price cap in subsequent quarters. Fixed tariff customers, by contrast, would remain locked into their agreed rate regardless of market movements.

There is also the question of exit fees. Some fixed tariffs carry exit fees that could cost you if you want to switch before the deal ends.

Always check the terms carefully before committing.

What the Numbers Suggest

At the time of writing, the most competitive one-year fixed deals are priced at roughly £1,650 to £1,750 per year for a typical household. If the July price cap rises to £1,800 or above, as many analysts expect, then fixing at the lower end of that range now would represent a saving. However, if the cap remains closer to £1,700, the saving would be minimal or non-existent.

We have covered the pros and cons of different tariff structures in detail in our guide to fixed versus variable energy tariffs in 2026. It is well worth reading before you make a decision.

Practical Tips for Switching

• Compare tariffs using at least two or three price comparison tools to ensure you are seeing the full market
• Check the length of the fix — 12-month deals offer less risk than 24-month deals in a volatile market
• Look at the unit rate and standing charge separately, not just the headline annual cost
• Consider whether green or renewable tariffs are available at competitive rates
• Read the exit fee terms carefully — some deals have no exit fees, which gives you more flexibility

For a comprehensive comparison of the best deals available right now, visit our regularly updated guide to the best energy tariffs in the UK for 2026.

Practical Steps to Reduce Your Energy Usage Today

Regardless of which tariff you are on, reducing the amount of energy you use is the most reliable way to lower your bills. Many of the most effective measures cost nothing or very little to implement.

Heating and Hot Water

Heating accounts for around 55 per cent of the average UK household energy bill, making it the single biggest area of opportunity for savings.

• Turn your thermostat down by one degree. This simple change can reduce your heating bill by up to 10 per cent, saving a typical household around £100 to £150 per year
• Use your boiler timer effectively. Set your heating to come on 30 minutes before you need it and switch off 30 minutes before you leave or go to bed. Modern condensing boilers are most efficient when running for sustained periods rather than being switched on and off frequently
• Bleed your radiators. Trapped air reduces efficiency and means your boiler has to work harder. Bleeding radiators takes minutes and can be done with a simple radiator key
• Use thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs). These allow you to control the temperature in individual rooms, so you only heat the spaces you are actually using
• Reduce your hot water temperature. Many boilers are set to heat water to 60 degrees Celsius or higher. Reducing this to 50 to 55 degrees can save energy while still providing comfortably hot water. However, do not set it below 50 degrees, as this can increase the risk of Legionella bacteria

Insulation and Draught-Proofing

Heat loss through walls, roofs, windows, and floors is one of the biggest drivers of high energy bills in UK homes, many of which were built before modern insulation standards existed.

• Draught-proof doors and windows. Self-adhesive draught strips cost just a few pounds and can be fitted in minutes. Draught excluders for the bottom of doors are equally inexpensive and effective
• Insulate your loft. If your loft insulation is less than 270mm deep, topping it up could save you up to £200 per year.

  Grants may be available through the government’s energy efficiency schemes

• Consider cavity wall insulation. If your home has unfilled cavity walls, professional insulation can significantly reduce heat loss. This is a more substantial investment but offers long-term returns
• Use heavy curtains. Drawing thick curtains at dusk creates an additional barrier against heat loss through windows, particularly older single-glazed units

Electricity Usage

While gas typically accounts for the larger share of energy bills, electricity costs are rising too. Small changes in how you use electrical appliances can add up over the course of a year.

• Switch to LED bulbs. If you have not already done so, replacing old halogen or incandescent bulbs with LEDs is one of the simplest energy upgrades. LEDs use up to 80 per cent less energy and last far longer
• Do not leave appliances on standby. Televisions, games consoles, and other electronics continue to draw power when left on standby. Using a standby saver plug or simply switching appliances off at the wall can save £50 to £70 per year
• Wash clothes at 30 degrees. Modern detergents are effective at lower temperatures. Washing at 30 degrees instead of 40 uses around 40 per cent less energy per cycle
• Only boil the water you need. Overfilling the kettle wastes energy every single time. If you make several cups of tea a day, the savings from boiling only what you need are surprisingly significant over a year
• Run dishwashers and washing machines with full loads. Half-empty cycles waste water and energy. If your appliance has an eco setting, use it — these programmes typically run longer but at lower temperatures, reducing overall energy consumption

Government Support and Entitlements You Should Claim

The UK government offers a range of support schemes to help households manage energy costs. Many of these are means-tested, but some are available to all consumers. It is worth checking your eligibility, as take-up rates for several schemes remain surprisingly low.

Warm Home Discount Scheme

The Warm Home Discount provides a one-off £150 discount on electricity bills for eligible households.

You may qualify if you receive Pension Credit or if you are on a low income and meet certain criteria. The scheme operates annually, and eligibility is reassessed each year. Some qualifying households receive the discount automatically, while others need to apply through their energy supplier.

On the other hand, understanding UK energy bills 2026 is essential for making the right financial decision.

Winter Fuel Payment

The Winter Fuel Payment is available to people born on or before a qualifying date who receive certain benefits, including Pension Credit. Depending on your circumstances, you could receive between £100 and £300 to help with heating costs during the colder months. If you believe you qualify but have not received a payment, contact the Winter Fuel Payment Centre.

Cold Weather Payment

If you receive certain benefits and the temperature in your area drops to zero degrees Celsius or below for seven consecutive days, you may be entitled to a Cold Weather Payment of £25 for each qualifying week. This is paid automatically, but it is worth checking that your details are up to date with the relevant benefits office.

Energy Company Obligation (ECO)

The ECO scheme requires larger energy suppliers to fund energy efficiency improvements in eligible homes. This can include loft insulation, cavity wall insulation, and in some cases, boiler replacements.

Eligibility is typically linked to receipt of means-tested benefits or living in a property with a low energy efficiency rating. Contact your energy supplier or local council to find out whether you qualify.

Council Tax Support and Other Local Schemes

Many local authorities operate additional support schemes that can help with energy costs, either directly or indirectly. These may include council tax reduction, hardship funds, or local energy efficiency programmes. The GOV.UK benefits checker is a useful starting point for identifying what you may be entitled to claim.

Priority Services Register

If you are elderly, disabled, chronically ill, or in another vulnerable situation, you can ask your energy supplier to add you to their Priority Services Register. This does not directly reduce your bills, but it ensures that you receive additional support during supply interruptions, access to accessible bill formats, and protection from disconnection during winter months.

Smart Meters and Home Energy Upgrades: Do They Actually Save Money

Smart meters and home energy upgrades are frequently promoted as ways to cut bills, but do they actually deliver meaningful savings? The evidence is mixed, and the answer depends heavily on how you use the technology and which upgrades you choose.

Smart Meters

Smart meters, now installed in over 30 million UK homes, provide real-time information about your energy usage through an in-home display (IHD). The idea is that seeing your consumption in pounds and pence encourages you to reduce waste.

The evidence suggests that smart meters do help some households save energy, but the effect is modest. Studies indicate average savings of around 2 to 3 per cent on electricity and 1 to 2 per cent on gas for households that actively engage with their in-home display. For a typical household, this translates to savings of roughly £25 to £50 per year.

However, the real value of smart meters lies in their potential to enable time-of-use tariffs, which charge different rates at different times of day. If you can shift energy-intensive activities — such as running your washing machine or charging an electric vehicle — to off-peak hours, the savings can be considerably greater. Some time-of-use tariffs offer overnight rates that are less than half the standard rate.

Smart meters are provided free of charge by your energy supplier. If you do not yet have one, there is no financial reason not to request an installation.

The cost is recovered through network savings, not added to your bill.

Boiler Upgrades

If your gas boiler is more than 15 years old, it is likely operating at an efficiency of 70 to 80 per cent, compared to 90 per cent or more for a modern condensing boiler. Upgrading could save you £100 to £300 per year on gas bills, depending on the age and condition of your existing boiler.

The upfront cost of a new boiler installation typically ranges from £2,000 to £4,000, so the payback period can be lengthy. However, government grants through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme can reduce this cost significantly for those switching to heat pumps, and some energy suppliers offer boiler financing arrangements that spread the cost over several years.

Double Glazing and External Wall Insulation

These are among the most expensive home energy upgrades but also among the most effective for poorly insulated properties. Double glazing can reduce heat loss through windows by up to 50 per cent, while external wall insulation can cut heat loss through solid walls by a similar proportion.

The costs are substantial — typically £4,000 to £8,000 for full double glazing and £8,000 to £15,000 for external wall insulation.

Payback periods of 10 to 20 years mean these are long-term investments rather than quick fixes. However, they also add value to your property and improve comfort, which should be factored into any cost-benefit analysis.

Renewable Energy Options for Homeowners

As fossil fuel prices remain volatile, interest in domestic renewable energy has surged. For homeowners in a position to invest, generating your own electricity or heat can provide a hedge against future price rises while reducing your carbon footprint.

Solar Panels

Solar panel costs have fallen dramatically over the past decade, and a typical 4kW domestic installation now costs between £5,000 and £8,000. A system of this size can generate around 3,400 to 4,000 kWh of electricity per year in southern England, or somewhat less in Scotland and northern regions.

At current electricity prices, this translates to savings of approximately £400 to £600 per year if you use a significant proportion of the generated electricity yourself, plus income from exporting surplus power to the grid through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG). Payback periods typically range from 8 to 14 years, after which the electricity is effectively free for the remaining lifespan of the panels, which can exceed 25 years.

Battery Storage

Adding a battery storage system to your solar installation allows you to store excess electricity generated during the day for use in the evening and overnight. This increases the proportion of solar electricity you use yourself, known as self-consumption, and reduces the amount you need to buy from the grid.

Battery systems typically cost between £2,500 and £6,000 depending on capacity. While they extend the payback period of a solar installation, they also provide greater energy independence and protection against grid price rises. Batteries are particularly valuable for households on time-of-use tariffs, as they can be charged during cheap overnight periods and discharged during expensive peak hours.

Air Source Heat Pumps

Air source heat pumps extract heat from the outside air — even in cold weather — and use it to heat your home and hot water. They are significantly more efficient than gas boilers, producing around three units of heat for every unit of electricity consumed.

Installation costs typically range from £8,000 to £15,000, but the government’s Boiler Upgrade Scheme offers grants of up to £7,500 toward the cost. Running costs depend on the electricity tariff you are on, but well-installed heat pumps in properly insulated homes can deliver heating at a similar or lower cost than gas, with the added benefit of producing zero direct emissions.

Heat pumps are not suitable for every property. Homes with poor insulation, limited outdoor space, or very high heating demands may not see optimal performance.

A professional assessment is essential before committing to an installation.

Ground Source Heat Pumps

Ground source heat pumps work on a similar principle to air source models but extract heat from the ground rather than the air. They are typically more efficient but also more expensive to install, with costs ranging from £15,000 to £35,000 depending on the type of ground loop system required. Government grants of up to £7,500 are also available for ground source installations.

These systems are best suited to properties with sufficient garden space for horizontal ground loops or the ability to drill boreholes for vertical loops. They deliver consistent performance regardless of air temperature, making them particularly effective in colder regions of the UK.

Your Energy Action Plan for 2026

With energy prices likely to rise through the second half of 2026, taking action now gives you the best chance of minimising the impact on your household budget. Here is a step-by-step action plan you can follow.

Immediate Actions (This Week)

• Read your meter and check your bills. Make sure you are being charged correctly and that your direct debit is set at an appropriate level. Overpaying builds up credit with your supplier, but underpaying could lead to a nasty shock later
• Check your tariff. Log into your energy supplier’s website or app and find out exactly what tariff you are on, what you are paying per unit, and when your current deal expires
• Compare deals. Use price comparison services to see whether you could save by switching. Pay attention to both the unit rate and the standing charge
• Turn down your thermostat. Even a one-degree reduction can make a noticeable difference to your bills

Short-Term Actions (This Month)

• Draught-proof your home. Check around doors, windows, letterboxes, and any gaps around pipes for draughts. Self-adhesive draught strips and foam sealant are inexpensive and easy to apply
• Request a smart meter. If you do not have one, contact your supplier to arrange a free installation. Use the in-home display to identify when and where you are using the most energy
• Check your benefit entitlements. Use the GOV.UK benefits calculator to see whether you qualify for any energy-related support
• Decide on your tariff strategy. Based on your research, decide whether to fix, stay on the variable cap, or wait and monitor. If you decide to fix, act sooner rather than later, as deals are being repriced regularly

Medium-Term Actions (Before Winter 2026)

• Insulate your loft. If your insulation is below the recommended 270mm, arrange to top it up. This is one of the most cost-effective home improvements you can make
• Service your boiler. An annual service ensures your boiler is running efficiently and can identify potential problems before they become expensive breakdowns during the coldest months
• Consider a boiler upgrade. If your boiler is old and inefficient, start researching replacement options. Factor in available grants and financing arrangements
• Investigate renewable energy. If you are a homeowner, get quotes for solar panels and explore whether a heat pump might be suitable for your property. Even if you do not proceed immediately, understanding the costs and potential savings will help you plan

Long-Term Actions (2026 and Beyond)

• Invest in energy efficiency. Major upgrades like double glazing, wall insulation, and renewable energy systems have long payback periods but deliver decades of savings and add value to your property
• Build an energy buffer. If your finances allow, consider setting aside a small amount each month during the warmer months to cushion the impact of higher winter bills
• Stay informed. Energy markets are volatile, and the policy landscape is constantly evolving. Follow trusted sources for updates on the price cap, government support schemes, and new tariff deals

Frequently Asked Questions

Will UK energy bills go up in 2026?

The Ofgem price cap is expected to be around £1,641 per year from April 2026, representing a slight decrease. However, most analysts expect the cap to rise again in July 2026 due to the impact of the Middle East conflict on wholesale gas prices. If the crisis persists, further increases could follow in October, meaning bills are likely to be higher by winter 2026 than they are now.

How does the Middle East conflict affect my energy bill?

The UK does not import most of its energy directly from the Middle East, but oil and gas are traded on global markets. When conflict threatens supply from a major producing region, global prices rise, and those increases eventually feed into the wholesale costs that UK energy suppliers pay. Under the Ofgem price cap system, higher wholesale costs lead to higher cap levels, which in turn mean higher bills for consumers on standard variable tariffs.

Should I switch to a fixed energy tariff right now?

This depends on your view of where prices are heading and your appetite for risk. If you believe prices will continue rising — and the current evidence supports that view — fixing now at a competitive rate could save you money over the next 12 months.

However, if the crisis resolves quickly and wholesale prices fall, a variable tariff would allow you to benefit from a lower price cap. Consider your personal circumstances, check exit fee terms carefully, and compare deals before committing.

What is the Ofgem price cap and how does it work?

The Ofgem price cap limits the maximum unit rate and standing charge that energy suppliers can charge customers on standard variable tariffs. It is reviewed and updated quarterly — in January, April, July, and October.

The cap is calculated based on the wholesale energy costs that suppliers face, plus an allowance for operating costs, network charges, and a modest profit margin. The cap figure quoted (for example, £1,641) refers to the annual cost for a household with typical consumption.

Am I entitled to any help with my energy bills?

Possibly. Key schemes include the Warm Home Discount (£150 off your electricity bill), Winter Fuel Payment (£100 to £300 for eligible pensioners), and Cold Weather Payments (£25 per qualifying week).

The Energy Company Obligation (ECO) scheme can also fund insulation and other energy efficiency improvements in eligible homes. Use the GOV.UK benefits calculator to check what you may be entitled to.

Do smart meters actually save money?

Smart meters themselves do not directly reduce your energy consumption. However, research shows that households that actively use the in-home display tend to save around 2 to 3 per cent on electricity. The bigger potential saving comes from time-of-use tariffs, which are only available to smart meter customers and can offer significantly cheaper rates during off-peak hours.

Is it worth getting solar panels in the UK?

For many homeowners, yes. A typical 4kW solar panel system costs between £5,000 and £8,000 and can save £400 to £600 per year on electricity bills, plus income from exporting surplus power.

Payback periods of 8 to 14 years are typical, after which the electricity is essentially free. Solar panels also add value to your property and reduce your exposure to future energy price rises.

What is the Bank of England base rate and why does it matter for energy?

The Bank of England base rate, held at 3.75 per cent as of March 2026, influences borrowing costs across the economy. While it does not directly set energy prices, higher interest rates make it more expensive for energy companies to borrow and invest, costs which can ultimately be passed on to consumers. The base rate also reflects the Bank’s assessment of inflation, which is being pushed higher in part by rising energy costs — creating a challenging feedback loop for the economy.

How can I reduce my energy bills without spending money?

Several no-cost measures can make a meaningful difference. Turning your thermostat down by one degree, switching off appliances at the wall instead of leaving them on standby, washing clothes at 30 degrees, boiling only the water you need, and closing curtains at dusk to retain heat are all free and can collectively save over £200 per year. Using your heating timer effectively and only heating rooms you are actually using are also highly effective zero-cost strategies.

Will the government introduce more support for energy bills?

The government has not announced any new large-scale energy bill support beyond existing schemes. However, if prices rise sharply through 2026, political pressure for additional intervention is likely to increase.

Previous responses to energy crises have included direct bill subsidies, expanded eligibility for existing schemes, and targeted support for vulnerable households. Keep an eye on official announcements from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero for the latest developments.