Questions and answers

The price cap limits the amount customers will pay for each unit of gas and electricity and sets a maximum standing charge. The cap is set by Ofgem (the energy regulator) and determined by the price of wholesale energy. It’s reviewed 4 times a year, with changes coming into effect in January, April, July and October.

This is a cost that’s paid by everyone who has an energy account in the UK – whether their home is using any energy or not. It’s used to pay for things like the maintenance of pipes, power lines, and meters.

Your projected annual cost may increase even if your unit rate decreases due to other factors, such as changes to standing charge. Your estimated annual cost takes into account your unit rate, standing charge, and previous energy use. If your unit rate decreases but your standing charge increases, the overall amount you spend on energy over the year might increase. This is especially likely if you're a low energy user.

Here’s an example for a home that typically uses 1,000 kWh per year:

Old prices:

Unit rate: 30p per kWh

Standing charge: 60p per day

Annual cost: £519

New prices:

Unit rate: 28p per kWh

Standing charge: 70p per day

Annual cost: £535.50

In this scenario, the unit rate has decreased. But the increase in the standing charge results in an estimated £16.50 increase on energy costs over the year.

It’s a different story if we look at a home that typically uses 3,000 kWh per year:

Old prices:

Unit rate: 30p per kWh

Standing charge: 60p per day

Annual cost: £1,119

New prices:

Unit rate: 28p per kWh

Standing charge: 70p per day

Annual cost: £1,095.50

Although this home spends more on energy than the previous example, the price changes mean they’re estimated to save £23.50 over the year.

This shows how changes in both unit rate and standing charge can impact your overall energy costs.

Each region’s affected differently by the price cap. While most areas will see a drop in unit rate prices alongside a rise in standing charges, some regions experience unique variations. This is because the price cap factors in the complexity of infrastructure needed to deliver power to each area. It also considers the specific needs of the local population.

We've put together a guide covering tips to help you save energy and money.

Our priority right now is making sure you have as much support as possible through this challenging period.

We’re offering customers within the OVO family (which includes Boost) extra financial and practical support with our Customer Support Package. You can find out more and apply online.

If you’re concerned about topping up or paying your energy bill, contact us as soon as possible.

We’re here to help, and our teams will be able to talk you through your options and advise on what might work best for you.

We’ve supported lots of people in similar situations – and we can support you too. The sooner you speak to us, the easier it will be to talk you through what support and advice is available.

Let us know if:

  • Your financial circumstances have changed
  • You’re elderly, have a disability or long-term illness

We’re here to work with you to make a suitable plan, and talk to you about organisations that can also help.

If you’re worried about your energy bills, please contact us.

Help and support

If you’re concerned about topping up or paying your energy bill, contact us as soon as possible.

We’re here to help, and our teams will be able to talk you through your options and advise on what might work best for you.

We’ve supported lots of people in similar situations – and we can support you too. The sooner you speak to us, the easier it will be to talk you through what support and advice is available.

Let us know if:

  • Your financial circumstances have changed
  • You’re elderly, have a disability or long-term illness

We’re here to work with you to make a suitable plan, and talk to you about organisations that can also help.

If you’re worried about your energy bills, please contact us.

We work with a number of charities and organisations that offer free support.

Citizens Advice England and Wales
Adviceline (England and Wales): 0808 223 1133

Citizens Advice Scotland
Adviceline (Scotland): 0808 196 8660

National Debtline
Helpline: 0808 808 4000

StepChange Debt Charity
StepChange
Debt helpline: 0800 138 1111

Civil Legal Advice
Check if you can get legal aid
Telephone: 0345 345 4 345

Here are trusted organisations you can contact for more energy-saving advice and tips:
Energy Saving Trust
Citizens Advice
Citizens Advice Scotland
Advice Direct Scotland