Skip to contentSwipe for next articleIndependent Bulletin homepageDownload our appAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleWant to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Membership today.Join todayAlready a member? Log inSiobhan McNallyWednesday 21 October 2026 11:05 BSTThe Ofgem energy price cap rose by 3.6 per cent to £1,723 on 1 October (PA)A poll by Uswitch reveals over nine million UK households are entering winter in debt to energy suppliers or with zero credit, prompting many to cut heating or food budgets.The Ofgem energy price cap rose by 3.6 per cent to £1,723 on 1 October, with forecasters anticipating an additional rise of around 22 per cent in January.Energy experts advise consumers on standard variable tariffs to consider fixing their rates, paying via direct debit, and regularly submitting meter readings to avoid overbilling.Simple household adjustments, including setting thermostats between 18C and 21C, using air fryers instead of ovens, and utilising smart meter monitors, can significantly lower energy usage.Households struggling with payments are encouraged to contact their supplier to set up payment plans or apply for support through government schemes like the Warm Home Discount and local crisis funds.In full7 things to do now if you are worried about winter energy billsMore bulletinsThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in