Monday UK Energy Savings Briefing
Week ending 1 November 2026 · Published 2 November 2026
The Autumn Budget committed to removing standing charges from gas bills as early as 2027, with those costs moving into unit rates. It also set out targeted debt relief for vulnerable households and government-backed loans for low-carbon heating.
All past editionsThe government has asked Ofgem to remove standing charges from household gas bills as early as 2027. The costs they cover will move into the gas unit rate.
What it means for you: Once the change takes effect, what you pay for gas will depend more on how much you use. Low gas users are likely to benefit; high gas users may pay more through a higher unit rate.
MoneySavingExpert · published 28 October 2026 · checked 2 November 2026
Under a new energy support package, a Warm Home Loans scheme will offer government-backed loans of up to £35,000 for low-carbon energy alternatives.
What it means for you: Households seeking to move away from fossil fuel heating can access government-backed borrowing to help finance installations such as heat pumps.
The Guardian · published 29 October 2026 · checked 2 November 2026
The government announced targeted, one-off debt relief for vulnerable households who re-engage with their supplier through a Debt Relief Scheme, with full eligibility criteria still to be published. The cut to VAT on electricity bills was extended to July 2027.
What it means for you: If you are behind on energy bills, contact your supplier and watch for the Debt Relief Scheme eligibility details. The VAT cut applies to electricity only; gas still carries VAT at 5%. If you get means-tested benefits, check whether you qualify for the £150 Warm Home Discount.
GOV.UK · published 28 October 2026 · checked 2 November 2026
Turn your combi boiler flow temperature down from 80°C to 60°C to keep heating costs in check as colder weather sets in.
Standing charge calculator — Check how standing charges make up your current bills as changes to gas daily rates approach.
Ofgem price cap (confirmed), Q4 2026 (1 Oct – 31 Dec 2026). These figures were frozen on 2 November 2026 and won't change if the cap changes later.
Electricity unit rate
26.32p per kWh
Electricity standing charge
54.83p per day
Gas unit rate
7.97p per kWh
Gas standing charge
29.68p per day
Source: Ofgem. Average rates for Direct Debit customers; your region may differ.
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