Ofgem energy price cap
Between 1 April to 30 June 2024 the Ofgem energy price cap is set at £1,690 per year for a typical household who use electricity and gas and pay by Direct Debit. This is £238 lower than the cap set between 1 January to 31 March 2024 (£1,928).
The price cap is based on typical household energy use. Read how typical household energy use is worked out in our Average gas and electricity usage guidance.
The price cap also makes sure that prices for people on a standard variable tariff (default tariff) are fair and that they reflect the cost of energy.
You are covered by the price cap if you pay for your electricity and gas by either:
- standard credit (payment made when you get your electricity and gas bill)
- Direct Debit
- prepayment meter
- Economy 7 (E7) meter
For more information on the energy price cap see www.ofgem.gov.uk/energy-price-cap
Energy social tariff
An 'energy social tariff' is a discounted energy deal for those on lower incomes and with specific needs. If implemented it would represent a crucial element in ensuring that UK households with vulnerabilities can afford the energy they need to keep warm and well.
Contact your energy supplier to make sure you are on the cheapest tariff available.
Grants and services from energy suppliers
Many energy companies offer schemes or grants to help with home heating and energy costs. Some are open to anyone – you don’t need to be a customer.
Contact your supplier to find out what they offer.
Citizens Advice lists grants some larger suppliers offer.
Ask about being put on your supplier’s Priority Services Register. This is a free energy support service if you are vulnerable.
Help with energy costs
See what support is available to help with the cost of living and save money with our energy saving tips
www.helpforhouseholds.campaign.gov.uk
Whether you’re worried about rising rents, covering higher energy costs or tackling debt, we’ve brought together our most useful tools, calculators and guides to help you keep on top of your money.
www.moneyhelper.org.uk/en/money-troubles/cost-of-living
Energy at home - How to save money on my energy bills www.energysavingtrust.org.uk
Household support fund
The Household Support Fund provides grants to people in York who are struggling to pay their fuel bills. Check if you are eligible.
Energy bill support
The Government energy bill support for 2023 and 2024 has now ended. All those eligible will have received their payments.
For more info, including edibility criteria, payment amounts and when these will be paid see www.gov.uk/guidance/cost-of-living-payment
Saving on energy bills
- Comparing and switching supplier or energy tariff may make a difference to your gas and electricity bills. However, since the increases in prices people should be very careful when switching tariff as this could make you worse off. Guidance is available from Citizens Advice.
- Switching from a prepayment meter. If you have an old-style prepayment meter, you can ask your energy supplier to replace it with an old-style credit meter or a smart meter. Guidance is available from Citizens Advice.
- Check your direct debit is right under the new price guarantee from October
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Try a range of tips for saving energy: