What's happened
From April 2025, the UK energy price cap will increase by £111 to £1,849 annually, marking the third consecutive rise. This surge is attributed to volatile global gas prices and low storage levels, impacting millions of households already struggling with high bills since the Ukraine conflict began.
What's behind the headline?
Current Situation
- The average energy bill will rise to £1,849, a significant burden for many households.
- This increase reflects a broader trend of rising living costs, particularly in energy and essential services.
Implications
- Households on variable tariffs will feel the immediate impact, while those on fixed tariffs may face delayed increases.
- The government’s promise to reduce energy bills by up to £300 by 2030 now appears increasingly difficult to achieve.
Future Outlook
- Analysts predict further increases in energy prices, particularly in colder months, which could lead to more households falling into energy debt.
- The transition to renewable energy sources is critical to stabilizing prices in the long term, but immediate relief measures are necessary for vulnerable populations.
What the papers say
According to The Guardian, the average energy bill will rise by £111, impacting millions of households already struggling with high costs. The energy regulator Ofgem's announcement of a 6.4% increase in the price cap has drawn criticism from campaigners who describe the situation as 'unbearable' for many. Meanwhile, The Mirror highlights government efforts to support vulnerable families through initiatives like the Warm Home Discount, which provides £150 off energy bills for over three million households. However, the effectiveness of these measures is questioned as the cost of living continues to rise. The Independent notes that the cumulative cost of energy increases since the Ukraine conflict began is expected to reach £3,000 for the average household by summer, emphasizing the urgent need for a comprehensive strategy to address energy affordability.
How we got here
The UK energy price cap, set by Ofgem, has seen three consecutive increases due to rising wholesale gas prices and low storage levels in Europe. The ongoing impact of Russia's invasion of Ukraine has exacerbated the situation, leading to higher costs for consumers.
Go deeper
- How can I reduce my energy bills?
- What support is available for struggling households?
- What are the long-term solutions to rising energy costs?
Common question
-
Why Are UK Energy Bills Increasing Again?
UK energy bills are set to rise again, with the energy price cap increasing by 6.4% in April. This change is causing concern among households already grappling with high living costs. Below, we explore the reasons behind this rise, its implications for consumers, and what steps can be taken to manage these escalating expenses.
-
Why Are UK Energy Bills Rising Again in 2025?
As of April 2025, UK households are facing another increase in energy bills, with the price cap rising by £111 to £1,849 annually. This marks the third consecutive rise, leaving many consumers wondering about the reasons behind this surge and how it will impact their finances. Below, we address common questions regarding the causes of rising energy costs and what consumers can do to manage their bills.
-
How Will the Rising Energy Bills Affect UK Households in 2025?
As the UK faces another increase in energy bills, many households are left wondering how this will impact their finances. With the energy price cap set to rise by £111 to £1,849 annually from April 2025, it's crucial to understand the implications and explore potential solutions. Below are some common questions and answers regarding this pressing issue.
-
What Are the Current Trends in Global Gas Prices and Their Impact on Energy Costs?
As global gas prices continue to fluctuate, many consumers are left wondering how these changes will affect their energy bills. With the UK energy price cap set to rise again in April 2025, it's crucial to understand the factors driving these trends and what they mean for households. Below, we explore common questions about gas prices, energy costs, and potential alternatives.
-
What is the UK government doing about rising energy bills?
As energy prices continue to soar, many UK households are feeling the financial strain. With the energy price cap set to rise again in April 2025, it's crucial to understand what measures the government is implementing to alleviate this burden. Below are some common questions regarding government responses to rising energy costs.
-
How Do UK Energy Prices Compare to Other European Countries?
As the UK faces another rise in energy prices, many are left wondering how these costs stack up against other European nations. With the energy price cap set to increase by £111 to £1,849 annually, it's crucial to understand the broader context of energy costs across Europe. This page explores key comparisons, contributing factors, and potential lessons the UK can learn from its neighbors.
More on these topics
-
Edward Samuel Miliband is a British politician serving as Shadow Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy since 2020, and has served as Member of Parliament for Doncaster North since 2005.
-
Ukraine is a country in Eastern Europe. It is the second-largest European country after Russia, which borders it to the east and northeast.
-
Russia, or the Russian Federation, is a transcontinental country located in Eastern Europe and Northern Asia. Covering an area of 17,125,200 square kilometres, it is the largest country in the world by area, spanning more than one-eighth of the Earth's in