Guides › Energy and Water Bills › What Is the Energy Price Cap?
What Is the Energy Price Cap?
The energy price cap is the maximum your supplier can charge for each unit of energy and the daily standing charge on a standard variable tariff. It does not limit your total bill: the more energy you use, the more you pay. Ofgem sets the cap level every 3 months.
At a Glance
Your Rights
What the rules say, with a link to the official source for each.
The Short Answer
What It Caps
The price cap is the maximum amount your supplier can charge for a unit of energy and standing charge together. It does not limit the cost of your total bill: the more energy you use, the higher your bill. Ofgem sets the price cap level every 3 months, with rates by region on its website. source
Time Limits to Know
Miss a deadline and you can lose a right. Check the dates on your own paperwork.
- Every 3 monthsOfgem sets the price capCheck Ofgem for current rates in your region
Steps to Take
Step 1 of 4
Check your tariff type on your bill.
Step 2 of 4
Compare your rates with Ofgem's cap for your region.
Step 3 of 4
Give regular meter readings.
Step 4 of 4
Ask your supplier for help if you cannot afford your bills.
(Tap the numbers to reveal steps)
Where to Go If It Is Not Put Right
Your options, in order, and when each one applies.
Your Energy Supplier's Complaints Team
Always start here, in writing.
Energy Ombudsman
After 8 weeks with no resolution, or when you get a deadlock letter.
Want Help?
If you would like one of our team to look at your problem, our initial case review is free. We cannot guarantee any outcome and we do not give legal advice.
Lead reviewer
Luke Marley
Founder and Lead Reviewer
Luke founded CPUK in 2026 after seeing how hard it is for ordinary people to get problems with companies put right. He oversees our guides and checks them against official sources.
Research by Katie Burt, Co-founder and Operations Lead (17 years in the care sector, including managing services for vulnerable adults), and the CPUK Research Team. Researched with AI-assisted research tools, then checked and corrected by our team.
Last checked: 13 October 2026. We are not paid by the companies we write about. Adverts never affect our guidance. Read our editorial policy.
Sources and official links
- ofgem.gov.uk/energy-price-cap Checked 13 October 2026
- energyombudsman.org/advice-for-consumers/what-is-back-billing Checked 12 October 2026