Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current electricity unit rate in the UK?
As of Q1 2026 (January-March 2026), the Ofgem price cap sets electricity at approximately 24.5p per kWh and a standing charge of around 53p per day. Rates vary by region and supplier — you can find your exact rate on your energy bill or in your online account. Direct debit customers may get slightly different rates.
What is the current gas unit rate in the UK?
Under the Q1 2026 Ofgem price cap, gas is approximately 6.24p per kWh with a standing charge of around 32p per day. Gas is significantly cheaper per kWh than electricity, which is why gas central heating is usually cheaper than electric storage heaters. Check your bill for your exact tariff.
How much electricity does a typical UK home use?
Ofgem's 'typical domestic consumption values' (TDCV): Small home = 1,900 kWh electricity, 8,000 kWh gas per year. Medium home = 2,900 kWh electricity, 12,000 kWh gas per year. Large home = 4,300 kWh electricity, 17,000 kWh gas per year. All-electric homes use more electricity: 3,800 kWh for medium-sized homes.
How much does it cost to run an electric shower?
A typical 9.5kW electric shower used for 8 minutes costs approximately 31p per shower (9.5kW × 8/60 hours × 24.5p/kWh = 31p). For a family of 4 using 8 minutes each daily = £4.34/week, £226/year in electricity costs alone.
How much does it cost to run a tumble dryer?
A typical tumble dryer uses 2.5-4 kWh per cycle. At 24.5p/kWh, one cycle costs 61p-98p. Running 3 cycles per week = £95-£153 per year. Heat pump tumble dryers use about 1.5 kWh per cycle (~37p) and are significantly cheaper to run, though more expensive to buy.
What is an energy standing charge and can I avoid it?
The standing charge is a daily fixed fee for being connected to the grid, regardless of how much energy you use. You cannot avoid it while connected to the gas/electricity network. Under the Q1 2026 price cap: electricity ~53p/day = £193/year, gas ~32p/day = £117/year. Some prepayment tariffs have different standing charge structures.
How can I reduce my energy bill?
Key strategies: Switch to a better tariff (compare at Ofgem-regulated comparison sites), insulate your home (loft insulation £150-£200, payback in 2-3 years), replace old boiler (A-rated condensing boiler cuts gas use by 20-30%), switch to LED bulbs (saves £55/year), install smart thermostat (saves £75-150/year), consider solar panels (saves £1,000+/year with export tariff).
What is the Warm Home Discount and who qualifies?
The Warm Home Discount provides a £150 rebate on electricity bills for eligible low-income households. Most customers are automatically added by their energy supplier if they qualify. Eligibility is based on: receiving Pension Credit (Core group), or having a low income with certain benefits and a high electricity cost (Broader group). Not all suppliers participate — check with your provider.