Energy price cap changes 2026: are energy prices going up?

The energy price cap limits how much energy suppliers can charge you for their default tariff (a basic tariff an energy supplier offers). This is controlled by Ofgem, the energy regulator. 

How much you pay for your energy depends on how much you use, where you live, how energy efficient your house is, and the type of meter you own. As the rise in the energy price cap is based on each unit of energy rather than the final bill, some households with higher consumption may pay more.

Between 1 July and 30 September 2026, the energy price cap is set to rise to £1862 per year for typical households that pay their gas and electricity by direct debit. This is a 13.5% increase compared to the previous three months.

Energy bills are going up by 13.5% for three main reasons: conflict abroad pushing up global gas prices, the cost of running the UK’s energy grid, and a change in how the regulator measures an ​‘average’ household’s energy use.

If you’re on a fixed term energy deal, then the energy price cap won’t apply to you, as it’s only for standard and default tariffs. Once your fixed term energy deal ends, you’ll be automatically switched to a price-capped tariff. 

The energy price cap is different depending on whether you pay by direct debit, quarterly or after receiving a bill, and for those who prepay. However, the price cap limits what you pay for each unit of energy, as well as setting a maximum daily standing charge (the amount you pay for your home to access energy). 

You may be paying more than the energy price cap if you’re on a certain tariff called a green deal. We recommend that you check your account to see which tariff you are on.

The energy price cap is reviewed every three months by Ofgem, the energy regulator company. For this period (1 July and 30 September 2026) the review was released on 27 May.

For the next period (1 October to 31 December 2026 ) the new energy price cap will be updated and announced by 26 August 2026.

Understandably, many people will be worried about the energy price cap changes and energy bills rising. There are lots of ways to get support for rising energy prices: 

If you get certain benefits or are on a low income, you might be eligible for some energy-saving home improvements, such as help with the cost of insulation, boiler repairs or replacements, and heating upgrades. For more information on these schemes, visit the Energy Company Obligation, the Great British Insulation Scheme and the Home Upgrade Grant.

Did you know that you could be entitled to extra benefits? Use our confidential and free benefits calculator to make sure that you’re not missing out on valuable financial support. You can also check to see if you’re eligible for Pension Credit.

To help with rising energy costs, it’s worth checking whether you’re eligible for grants that don’t need to be paid back. Use the Turn2us Grants Search to find money that you’re missing out on.

Did you know that if you’re struggling to pay for rising energy bills, there are lots of ways to get help. You can: 

• Learn how to contact your energy company directly
• Find seven ways to get support if you’re struggling to pay energy bills
• Learn how to understand your bill and take meter readings

Are you behind on energy bill payments? Our free, expert debt help will advise on the best route out of debt, and offer different types of support to help you become debt free. Find a local CAP debt centre near you.

Many people may be worried about turning on their heating this winter. However, there are plenty of places in your community that can help. Warm Welcome Spaces are heated and offer refreshments such as tea/​coffee. They let you come in, feel the warmth and feel safe and welcomed in your community.

Find a Warm Welcome Space near you.