Ofgem pay as you go price cap rates: February 2026 (UK)
Understand the February 2026 Ofgem price cap for PAYG (prepayment meter) customers, what it means for your unit rates and standing charges, and how to compare whole-of-market tariffs in minutes with EnergyPlus.
- Clear explanation of PAYG price cap rates and how your bill is worked out
- What changes in February 2026 and what to check on your meter/account
- Compare whole-of-market home energy tariffs and switch (where available)
- Support for credit, smart PAYG and traditional prepayment
Home energy only. Rates vary by region and meter type. We’ll ask for your postcode to show the right cap and available tariffs.
Check your Ofgem PAYG price cap rates for February 2026
The Ofgem price cap sets a limit on the maximum unit rate (pence per kWh) and standing charge (pence per day) that suppliers can charge most households on default tariffs (including many pay as you go/prepayment customers). The cap isn’t a limit on your total bill—your usage still matters.
Because PAYG cap rates vary by region and by meter/payment type (for example: smart prepayment versus traditional prepayment), the quickest way to understand what applies to you is to check using your postcode and fuel type.
Good to know: If you’re on a fixed tariff, the cap usually doesn’t apply until that fix ends. If you’re on a default variable tariff or standard PAYG tariff, the cap is typically relevant.
What you’ll get after submitting
- Estimated price cap rates for your area (PAYG, electricity, gas or both)
- Any available tariffs we can show across the market (where suppliers are open to new customers)
- A clear view of potential savings versus typical default pricing
Compare home energy (whole-of-market)
Fill in the form and we’ll show your options based on your region and meter type.
If you’re on PAYG and struggling: you may be able to access supplier support, payment plans, or grants. See FAQs for help routes and what to ask your supplier.
What are the Ofgem PAYG price cap rates for February 2026?
When people search for “Ofgem pay as you go price cap rates February 2026”, they’re usually trying to find the unit rates and standing charges that apply to prepayment (PAYG) customers in their region. Ofgem publishes price cap information that sets limits for suppliers’ default tariffs, including many PAYG tariffs.
The key point: there isn’t one single national PAYG cap rate. Cap levels are set by: fuel (electricity and/or gas), payment method (including prepayment/PAYG), region (electricity distribution region and gas region), and meter type (for example smart versus traditional prepayment can affect how charges are structured).
Unit rate (p/kWh)
The price you pay for each kilowatt hour of gas or electricity you use. PAYG customers often focus here, but standing charges matter too.
Standing charge (p/day)
A daily fixed amount that covers network costs and metering. Even if you use very little energy, this still applies.
VAT and billing
Domestic energy typically includes VAT. Your actual spend depends on how much you use and how often you top up.
Tip: If you want the exact cap-aligned rates relevant to you, use the postcode checker. It’s the fastest way to avoid looking at the wrong region’s figures.
What could change in February 2026 for PAYG customers?
Ofgem updates the cap periodically. For February 2026, what matters for PAYG households is how the updated cap affects the maximum allowed unit rates and standing charges on default PAYG tariffs in your region. Even small changes to the standing charge can meaningfully affect low-usage homes, while unit rate changes matter more for higher usage.
Check these 5 things
- Your payment type: PAYG/prepayment vs monthly direct debit
- Your meter: smart PAYG, key, or card meter
- Your region: postcode determines your electricity distribution area
- Fuel: electricity-only, gas-only, or dual fuel
- Your tariff type: default variable vs fixed (cap usually applies to default)
Common PAYG misconceptions
- “The cap is the most I can pay.” It’s a cap on rates, not your bill.
- “Everyone gets the same rates.” Regions differ, and so do meter types.
- “PAYG is always more expensive.” It can be, but not always—availability and eligibility matter.
- “Switching isn’t possible on prepay.” Many can switch; some restrictions apply (e.g., debt).
How PAYG price cap rates translate into what you actually pay
Your prepayment meter costs are mainly made up of a standing charge and your usage. A simple way to estimate your spend is:
Quick estimate formula
Estimated cost = (unit rate × kWh used) + (standing charge × number of days)
On PAYG, the standing charge is usually taken automatically (for example daily). If you don’t top up for a while, a meter can collect standing charges and other amounts when you next top up.
Typical bill drivers for PAYG homes
Heating pattern
Gas central heating usage can dominate winter costs. Electric heating can push electricity usage high.
Standing charges
High standing charges can be a bigger share of total cost for low-usage households.
Debt and emergency credit
If there’s debt on the meter, top-ups may be used to repay it. Emergency credit can also affect what you owe later.
Important: If you see your top-ups disappearing quickly, it may be due to standing charges, debt collection, or recovery of emergency credit. Contact your supplier to request a breakdown.
Why Ofgem PAYG price cap rates vary by region
Ofgem’s cap accounts for differences in network costs across Great Britain. That’s why your neighbour in another part of the country may see different cap-aligned unit rates and standing charges—especially for electricity.
What to use to find the right rates
- Postcode (to map you to the correct electricity region)
- Fuel type (electricity, gas, or dual fuel)
- PAYG meter details (smart prepay vs key/card)
Use the comparison form to see information tailored to your area.
PAYG cap rates: what you should compare
If you’re staying on PAYG
- Electricity unit rate (p/kWh)
- Electricity standing charge (p/day)
- Gas unit rate (p/kWh) if applicable
- Gas standing charge (p/day) if applicable
- Any debt recovery settings on the meter
If you’re considering switching
- Whether the tariff is fixed or variable
- Exit fees (typically fixed tariffs)
- Payment method options (PAYG or credit)
- Any eligibility limits (for example, outstanding debt thresholds)
- Service quality and contact methods
Why compare with EnergyPlus?
Whole-of-market view
We aim to show a broad range of home energy options, so you can compare what’s available for your situation.
PAYG-friendly guidance
We explain the cap clearly and help you spot what matters for prepayment: standing charges, debt settings and regional rates.
Fast, postcode-accurate
Your postcode is the quickest route to the right region and the right cap-aligned figures.
FAQs: Ofgem PAYG price cap rates (February 2026)
Does the price cap apply to all pay as you go tariffs?
The cap generally applies to default tariffs (including many standard PAYG/prepayment tariffs). It usually doesn’t apply to fixed deals while the fix is active. If you’re unsure, check your tariff name on your supplier account or ask them directly.
Is the PAYG cap higher than direct debit?
Ofgem sets cap levels by payment method. Historically, PAYG and direct debit caps can differ due to cost assumptions. The practical takeaway is to compare your own rates (unit and standing) rather than relying on national headlines.
Why are my top-ups going down even when I’m not using much?
On prepayment meters, your balance can reduce due to standing charges, debt repayment, and recovery of emergency credit. Ask your supplier for a breakdown of charges and whether repayment rates can be adjusted if you’re in hardship.
Can I switch supplier if I have debt on my prepayment meter?
Sometimes. Switching rules can depend on the amount of debt and how it’s managed. If you can’t switch immediately, you may still be able to move to a different tariff with your current supplier or agree a more manageable repayment setting.
What information should I have ready to compare PAYG tariffs?
A recent top-up receipt or statement (to see your current unit rates and standing charges), your postcode, whether you have gas and electricity, and your meter type (smart PAYG or key/card).
What if I’m in an emergency and can’t top up?
Contact your supplier as soon as possible—most have hardship processes and can explain emergency credit, friendly hours, and support options. If you’re vulnerable or at risk (for example due to health needs), ask about additional protections and priority support services.
Want your region-specific PAYG cap view? Go back to Compare & check your rates.
Trusted, practical support for PAYG households
“Simple and clear”
“I didn’t realise rates were regional. The postcode check made it obvious what I should be paying and what to ask my supplier.”
Homeowner, North West
“Helped me compare properly”
“I was only looking at unit rate. Seeing standing charges side-by-side changed my decision.”
Tenant, West Midlands
“Quick and no fuss”
“I got a clear summary of options for PAYG and what steps I could take next.”
Household customer, Scotland
What we prioritise
- Accuracy: postcode-led comparisons to reduce regional mismatches
- Clarity: unit rate and standing charge displayed in plain English
- Control: you decide whether to switch and when
Ready to check your February 2026 PAYG cap rates?
Use your postcode to see the region-specific PAYG price cap view and compare whole-of-market home energy options.
- Postcode-led results
- Unit rate + standing charge comparison
- Guidance for smart and traditional prepayment meters
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