Wed, 27 Aug 2025

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 Four ways to keep your energy bills down

Household energy bills are due to rise again in October but there are ways to keep a lid on your expenditure.

* Energy prices will rise by around £35 a year in October due to a cap increase.
* Fixing energy rates can save households up to 17% compared to variable rates, which could equate to £250 over a year.
* Fixed deals typically require customers to switch to direct debit and may come with exit fees if prices fall below the fixed rate.
* Prepayment schemes have been changed so that those on low incomes pay 3% less than the capped variable rate.
* Some households may be eligible for discounts, grants, or support schemes, including: + £150 off electricity bills for means-tested benefit recipients + Cold Weather Payment and Winter Fuel Payment for certain groups + Hardship grants from energy suppliers and government's Fuel Direct Scheme + Grants to help with insulating homes
* Tips to reduce energy bills include: + Fixing energy rates + Using smart meters or submitting regular meter readings + Switching to direct debit + Managing usage through off-peak pricing schemes, electric cars, and energy-efficient appliances.
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