Energy price cap explained
Understand the Ofgem energy price cap. What it means for you, how often it changes, who it affects, and your options with EDF
Last updated: 25 February 2026
At a glance
Latest update on the price cap: 25 February 2026
- From 1 April 2026, Ofgem (the energy regulator) will decrease the price cap by 7%
- Typical dual fuel bill; approx £1,641 a year based on Ofgem's average usage(1)
- Prices will change on 1 April 2026 for any EDF customer on a standard variable, deemed or tracker tariff
- Prices change quarterly in Jan/Apr/Jul/Oct
- Due to the UK Government taking action in the Autumn budget last year, customers will see an overall reduction in their prices
Latest update on the price cap
What's happening
From 1 April 2026, Ofgem (the UK energy regulator) is decreasing the price cap by 7%.
What this means for you
- Customers on variable or tracker tariffs: your prices will automatically update
- Direct Debit payments: We'll review your Direct Debit payments and let you know if any changes are needed to keep up with the new prices. Please don’t change your Direct Debit, as changing your payment before a review could result in debt
- Prepayment customers: You'll see the new prices when you first top up after April 1, 2026. Gas prices could update on prepayment customers' meters any time from today (after a top-up), but they won't activate until 1 April 2026
What is the energy price cap?
The price cap was introduced when energy prices started to spike in 2019. The energy price cap is a limit set by Ofgem, the UK’s energy regulator. It puts a maximum on:
- Unit rates: The price you pay for each unit of gas and electricity you use
- Standing charges: The daily fee you pay to stay connected to the energy network
How often does it change?
The price cap is reviewed quarterly: January, April, July, and October. If you’re on a variable or tracker tariff, your unit rates will adjust accordingly. Fixed-price tariffs remain unaffected during the contract term.
Our price cap predictions help you easily work out whether you should stay on a variable tariff that tracks the cap or switch to a fixed price or tracker tariff.
Does the price cap apply to me?
The price cap applies if you’re on one of EDF’s variable or tracker tariffs. Here's a list of our current tariffs
- Variable tariffs: Standard Variable, Welcome, Deemed, Safeguard Assist
- Tracker tariffs: Simply Tracker, Evolve Tracker, Heat Pump Tracker, Heat Pump & Save Tracker, Heat Pump & Power Tracker, Empower, Empower Tracker Exclusive V2
Not sure which tariff you’re on?
You can check your tariff name in MyAccount or on your latest bill
Should I stay on the price cap or switch?
If you’re on one of our variable or tracker tariffs, your prices can go up or down in line with the price cap every three months. For some customers, switching to a different tariff can bring savings or peace of mind.
We encourage every household to compare all available tariffs and choose the option that offers the best protection for the year ahead.
Philippe Commaret, Managing Director of Customers at EDF, said: “It is welcome news that Government support means that the price cap is decreasing, but we wanted to see how we could go further in reducing costs for EDF customers. 57% of customers are still on standard variable rates – by opting for a fixed or tracker tariff, customers can start saving today. This tracker tariff guarantees customers will always save £100 against the price cap, regardless of the changes to the energy price cap over the next year.
“Plus, by applying the discount through standing charges, we ensure that customers who are already working to improve their energy efficiency and reduce their carbon footprint still benefit from equal cost savings.”
Your options at a glance
| Option | At a glance | Considerations |
| Stay on the cap | Follows cap quarterly | Prices change every three months |
| Switch to a fixed tariff | Locked rates for the length of the tariff | Prices may be higher if the cap falls; exit fees apply |
| Tracker tariff | Always cheaper than cap | Still variable. Prices can change each quarter |
What to do next
If you’re paying by Direct Debit, it’s easy to switch online, and there are no exit fees if you're on a standard tariff that is aligned to the price cap.
Compare our tariffs against Ofgem's price cap
Get discounted standing charges. Guaranteed!
Switch to our Simply Tracker Extra Jun27 tariff and get £50 off the standing charge per fuel – that's up to £100 a year if you choose both electricity and gas(2)
Start saving today!
| Meter types | Payment methods | |
| Standard & E7 | Direct Debit, Cash/Cheque, Smart PAYG and Prepayment | View Jan 26 price cap rates |
| Complex meters, ECO20:20 and Economy 10 | Direct Debit, Cash/Cheque, Smart PAYG | View Jan 26 price cap rates |
What does the energy price cap mean for my bill?
Your prices will automatically change on 1 April in line with the price cap. This means that your next bill, after this date, will reflect any changes. These prices will include the reduction in your bill due to the UK Government's action in the Autumn Budget last year.
If I’m on a fixed tariff, will I be affected?
No, your rates and standing charges stay the same until your tariff plan ends. Don't forget to choose another fixed plan when your existing one ends if you want to continue benefiting from fixed rates.
How do I check which tariff I’m on?
You can check which tariff you're on by logging into your account and looking under tariff details on your home screen. Alternatively, you'll be able to see your tariff info on your latest bill (on page 2) under the 'About your tariff' section.
Does this mean I’ll only pay £1,641 a year?
No. The £1,641 annual bill value is based on Ofgem's typical usage value (1), which they reference when discussing the price cap. Your bill depends on how much energy you use. Use more, pay more. Use less, pay less.
On top of that, there’s a standing charge. This is a daily fee you pay to stay connected to the energy network. It covers the cost of keeping your home plugged in and ready, a bit like paying line rental for a phone. You’ll pay this even if you don’t use any energy at all.
4 ways to save money and cut carbon
You can lower your energy bills, use less power, and reduce your carbon footprint with just a few changes. Here are four ways to get started today:
1. Get a smart meter
Track your energy usage in real-time with a smart meter and our Energy Hub. You’ll see where you can save, cut waste, and access all EDF tariffs with ease.
Book your smart meter installation today.
2. Try simple energy saving tips
Small actions can make a difference. Many tips are completely free and take just minutes to do.
See our top energy-saving tips
3. Choose a smarter way to pay
Paying by Direct Debit or Smart Pay As You Go is often the cheapest and easiest way to manage your energy costs. You’ll spread payments evenly and avoid surprises on your bill.
4. Sunday Saver
Shift your electricity use away from peak times and enjoy free electricity every Sunday through our Sunday Saver programme. So far, customers have saved more than £1.5 million.
Join via Energy Hub
Struggling to pay your energy bills? We’re here to help
Last winter, EDF partnerships helped 70,000 customers, and this year we're setting aside £30m to support those who need it most. Through these partnerships, we can offer debt advice, explore ways to increase income, provide energy efficiency tips, and assist with debt clearance. Our Customer Support Fund provided 25,000 products to assist our most vulnerable customers. We supplied essential electrical goods like heated throws, rechargeable hot water bottles, air fryers, and slow cookers, along with energy vouchers.
Need help? Get in touch — Our friendly team is here to help you find the best solution. Please get in touch by email at hello@edfenergy.com with your account number, or call 0333 006 99 50.(3)
Independent energy advice — We work with trusted partners, such as Citizens Advice Plymouth (0808 156 6666, Mon-Thu 9 am-5 pm, Fri 9 am-4.30 pm) and IncomeMAX, a social enterprise that helps people boost their household income.