Is there a regulated or capped energy price in the UK?

The short answer

In some countries the state or the regulator sets or caps the price households pay. In others, prices are free and you compare offers.

📜 The rules in the UK

Regulated price

Great Britain only: caps the unit rate and standing charge on standard variable tariffs, not your total bill. 1 Oct to 31 Dec 2026: £1,723 a year for a typical Direct Debit home (up 4%). No VAT on electricity from 1 Oct 2026 to 31 Mar 2027.

Energy price cap (Ofgem) 🔗 ofgem.gov.uk

Official source: ofgem.gov.uk · Checked 2026-09-27

The market

In Great Britain you can switch electricity and gas supplier or tariff at any time; Ofgem regulates the market. Northern Ireland has its own regulator and rules; there all households can switch electricity, but gas choice depends on the area.

Official source: ofgem.gov.uk · Checked 2026-09-27

🪜 Step by step

See what appliesThe situation in the UK is described below.
Compare with offersEven where a regulated price exists, market offers can be cheaper or dearer. Compare before you decide.
Watch for changesRegulated prices are usually reviewed at fixed moments. Check the official source.
Ask the regulatorFor questions about how the price is set, contact the regulator.

📇 Who to contact

Ofgem (Office of Gas and Electricity Markets)Supervises energy companies and explains your rightsFor information, and to report a company that breaks the rules🔗 www.ofgem.gov.uk

Utility Regulator (Northern Ireland)Supervises energy companies and explains your rightsFor information, and to report a company that breaks the rules🔗 www.uregni.gov.uk

Consumer Council energy price comparison tool (Northern Ireland only; Great Britain has no official comparator) officialCompare electricity and gas offersBefore you switch, or when your price goes up🔗 www.consumercouncil.org.uk/consumers/help-consumers/electricity-oil-and-gas/electricity-price-comparison-tool

❓ Questions

Who sets the price?

See the explanation for the UK on this page.

Can I go back to the regulated price?

That depends on national rules. Check the official source on this page.

Why is my bill higher than the cap?

A cap may apply to the unit price or a typical bill, not your total. Taxes and your use also count.

📎 Sources

Checked: 2026-09-27

🧭 Is this still correct?

We check this information carefully, but phone numbers, websites and rules change — and sometimes we get something wrong. Spotted a mistake or a change? Let us know below.

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🏛️ Is there a regulated or capped energy price in the UK?