Which? responds to the energy price cap rising by 3.6% in October

Emily Seymour, Which? Energy Editor, said:

“This energy price cap increase will put further pressure on already stretched budgets this winter, particularly for households reliant on gas for heating.

“Gas prices have continued to rise under the previous two price caps, but lower summer usage means many won't yet have felt the full impact. With prices rising again just as people start heating their homes more, and with food inflation accelerating, many will feel the pinch in their household bills this winter.

"While the cut to VAT on electricity bills is welcome, increases elsewhere mean it has not been enough to prevent the overall energy price cap from rising.“The price changes only apply to those on out-of-contract, variable tariffs. If you have a fixed deal, your energy prices will stay the same until the end of your contract. Unfortunately for those looking to secure a fix, our recent analysis has found that energy suppliers generally weren’t offering fixed tariffs cheaper than the price cap.

“If you're worried about affording your energy bills, don't suffer in silence. Contact your energy supplier as soon as possible—providers are obliged to work with customers who are struggling and may be able to offer support.”