Energy · checked 15 September 2026
October 2026 energy price cap: should you fix or stay put?
From 1 October to 31 December 2026, Ofgem's illustrative annual figure for a typical dual-fuel household paying by Direct Debit is £1,723. It is not a maximum bill: what you pay still depends on your usage, region, payment method and tariff.
Your best next move
Compare your tariff's unit rates and standing charges—not just the monthly Direct Debit—with Ofgem's figures for your region.
Do this in order
A simple check, not a financial application
- Find the unit rates, standing charges and tariff end date on your latest bill.
- Check whether you are on a fixed tariff or the price-capped default tariff.
- Use annual consumption in kWh for a fair comparison. A Direct Debit balance can make one month's payment misleading.
- If a fix is offered, compare the full annual cost, exit fees and certainty—not only the headline monthly amount.
Worth knowing
Don't trip over this
The £1,723 figure is an illustration for typical use in England, Scotland and Wales, not a household spending limit. Northern Ireland has a different energy market.
Now check the household
One bill can be useful. The best three moves are better.
Square Peg ranks potential impact, urgency, effort and confidence—then tells you what to do first and what to leave alone.
Check my household →General information, not personal financial advice. Potential savings are not verified savings. Check current terms, eligibility and official guidance before acting.