Stay on top of the latest UK home energy updates and see what they mean for your household bills. Compare whole-of-market tariffs with EnergyPlus and switch with confidence.
Home energy only. Whole-of-market comparison. Switching is subject to eligibility and supplier terms.
Energy headlines can be noisy. This page focuses on the updates that most commonly affect UK households: the Ofgem price cap, unit rates, standing charges, supplier tariff moves, and practical steps to take. If you’d rather skip the reading, jump straight to comparing whole-of-market tariffs.
Tip: Media reports often quote averages. Your bill depends on your region, meter type (credit vs prepay), and usage. The fastest way to see your likely costs is to compare deals using your postcode.
The price cap limits the maximum unit rates and standing charges suppliers can charge on standard variable tariffs in Great Britain (not the whole UK). If you’re on a variable tariff, changes to the cap can move your costs up or down. Fixed deals can still beat (or exceed) the cap depending on market prices.
Standing charges cover network, metering and policy costs—paid daily regardless of usage. For low-usage homes, standing charges can make a bigger difference than unit rates. Comparing tariffs is essential because the balance between unit rates and standing charges varies by supplier and region.
When wholesale prices shift, suppliers often adjust fixed tariffs. A good fixed deal can help you budget, but check exit fees and your end date. If your fixed term is ending soon, comparing early can reduce the risk of rolling onto a higher standard variable tariff.
Government and supplier-led support can change over time. Some help is automatic, some requires action. If you’re struggling, it’s worth checking supplier hardship support, repayment plans, and whether you might be better suited to an alternative tariff type.
News is useful—but savings happen when you act. Use EnergyPlus to compare electricity and gas tariffs across the market and see options that match your home, meter and region.
Already know your numbers? If you have a recent bill, keep it handy. If not, no problem—an estimate is enough to start.
Most “energy news” boils down to a few bill drivers. Understanding them helps you decide whether to switch tariff, adjust your usage, or contact your supplier for support.
The price you pay for each unit of gas or electricity. News about wholesale prices, regulation, or supplier pricing often shows up here—especially on fixed deals.
Daily charges that can differ by region and meter type. When standing charges rise, reducing usage alone may not cut the bill as much as you’d expect.
Exit fees, end dates, discounts and payment methods can change the “best” deal for your home. Always compare the full picture, not just the headline rate.
Regional differences: Electricity distribution regions affect standing charges and unit rates. That’s why two households reading the same “average bill” headline can see different real-world costs.
When the news mentions the price cap, supplier profits, or wholesale costs, here’s a practical, household-first approach. Use these steps whether you’re on a fixed tariff, standard variable tariff, or prepayment meter.
If you’re reading UK energy news regularly, these are the phrases you’ll see most—and how they affect your home.
| Term | What it means | Why households should care |
|---|---|---|
| Ofgem price cap | A limit on unit rates and standing charges for standard variable tariffs (Great Britain). | If you’re on a variable tariff, changes can affect what you pay. Fixed deals aren’t capped. |
| Unit rate | Price per kWh of energy used. | High-usage homes are more sensitive to unit rates—small changes can add up. |
| Standing charge | Daily fixed cost for maintaining your supply. | Low-usage homes can still face high bills if standing charges are high in their region. |
| Fixed tariff | A deal where unit rates/standing charges are set for a period (subject to terms). | Helps budgeting; check end date and exit fees before switching again. |
| Standard variable tariff (SVT) | Default tariff that can change with the market and regulation. | Often where people end up after a fixed deal ends—worth comparing regularly. |
Want the quick route? Use the EnergyPlus comparison form to see which tariffs are available for your postcode.
Not exactly. In Great Britain, the cap limits the maximum unit rates and standing charges for a typical standard variable tariff, not your total bill. If you use more energy, you’ll pay more.
Fixing can help you budget, but the “right” choice depends on the deal available for your region and meter, plus exit fees and your usage. Comparing whole-of-market tariffs is the most reliable way to decide.
Standing charges vary by electricity distribution region, meter type and payment method. That’s why postcode-based comparisons are essential for accurate results.
Often yes, though available tariffs can vary. Provide your details in the form and we’ll help you see the options available for your setup (subject to supplier criteria).
A good rule is: when your fixed tariff is within a few months of ending, when the price cap changes, or whenever your household circumstances change. Regular comparisons can prevent overpaying on default rates.
No—EnergyPlus is a comparison service. We help UK households compare home energy tariffs across the market and take the next step towards switching.
Switching energy is a practical decision—your data and your choices matter. Here’s what households typically value when comparing with EnergyPlus.
Compare a broad range of tariffs rather than guessing based on headlines or a single supplier quote.
Understand the impact of price cap changes, standing charges and tariff terms before you choose.
If you’re unsure what to do next, we help you identify suitable options based on your household details.
“The news was confusing, but the comparison made it clear what I’d actually pay in my area. Switching felt straightforward.”
“I didn’t realise standing charges were driving my costs. Comparing tariffs helped me pick a deal that fits our usage.”
Use your postcode to compare whole-of-market home energy tariffs and see what’s available for your household today.
EnergyPlus is a comparison service for UK households. Availability varies by region, meter and supplier criteria.
Go to the form and submit your details. It’s the quickest way to see tariffs that may suit your home.