Brits expected to ration electricity as price hikes hit the UK from today
British homeowners can expect to pay more for electricity from this month, as previously announced increases take effect.
The UK’s energy price will increase by 2% in October, as announced by energy regulator Ofgem on 27 August 2025.
The price cap sets a maximum rate per unit and a standing charge that energy companies are allowed to levy on customers for their energy use.
Note that those on fixed tariffs will not be affected by the increase to the energy price cap.
For the average household on a default tariff, this increase will lead to their energy bills rising by around £2.93.
Ofgem’s price cap for October is set at £1,755 based on what it describes as a typical household – a 2-3 bedroom house with two or three people. However, the extent to which different customers will be affected by the increase to the price cap depends greatly on the size of their home and its energy efficiency.
Polling by fuel poverty charity National Energy Action shows 58% of British adults say they are likely to ration their heating this upcoming winter, which is an increase of nine percentage points when compared to National Energy Action’s polling in January 2025.
38% of GB prepayment meter customers say they have found themselves without credit on their prepayment meter and unable to access any heating or power when they needed it at least once in the last 12 months. This is an increase of 13 percentage points when compared with National Energy Action’s polling in January 2025.
“Unaffordable energy bills present a risk to health – and life – this winter. These findings indicate that some of the most vulnerable people are already struggling and, justifiably, extremely worried about the coming winter,” said National Energy Action Chief Executive Adam Scorer.
He noted that self-disconnecting from heat and power is an act of desperation, becoming even more serious as the weather gets colder.
No household should be in this situation in the UK in 2025, but many are, he said.
“Household energy debt is at monstrous levels. Ofgem’s plans to help people out of debt are welcome, but need to go much further. Energy bills are rising, debt levels are rising, fears for the coming winter are rising. The Warm Homes Plan needs to provide this certainty for the long term.”
