Nearly 418,000 households across the UK are set to see their energy bills surge this month and next, as dozens of fixed-rate deals come to an end, according to new analysis from Uswitch.com.
The energy comparison and switching service revealed that 471,870 customers signed up to 12-month fixed deals in April and May last year. With 79 of those tariffs expiring by the end of May, households risk being automatically moved onto standard variable tariffs—which are pegged to the Energy Price Cap, currently at its highest level since 2022.
Standard Tariffs Set to Soar Again
As of April 1, 2025, the energy price cap rose by 6.4%, marking the third consecutive increase. This cap, set by Ofgem, affects roughly 29 million households and significantly raises the cost of staying on a default tariff.
MoneySavingExpert founder Martin Lewis posted on social media:
“THE PRICE CAP IS A PANTS CAP – GET OFF IT IF YOU CAN. FIX NOW IF YOU HAVEN’T ALREADY.”
Households facing the end of their fixed deals could save an average of £259 per year by switching to a better deal now. If all affected households acted, £108 million in potential savings could be made nationwide.
How to Beat the Price Cap
The best fixed-rate deal depends on your location and energy usage, making comparison sites essential. Uswitch.com advises using platforms that show the entire market, not just providers who pay for listings.
Elise Melville, energy expert at Uswitch.com, warned:
“If your fixed deal began last spring, check now—many of these tariffs are ending and switching early could save you significant money. You can move up to 49 days before your tariff ends without incurring exit fees.”
Why This Matters Now
- Standard tariffs are among the most expensive on the market.
- Suppliers are currently offering competitive fixed deals to attract new customers.
- Once wholesale energy prices rise again, these offers may vanish quickly.
Uswitch is encouraging everyone—especially those who fixed their tariffs in spring 2024—to act swiftly. “It’s unusual to see such well-priced deals,” Melville added. “The window to lock them in could be brief.”
Energy Price Cap Explained
The Energy Price Cap, introduced by Ofgem in 2019, limits the unit price of gas and electricity but not the total bill. What you pay depends on how much energy you use.
The cap:
- Applies to standard/default tariffs (mostly variable).
- Is adjusted quarterly based on wholesale energy costs.
- Aims to protect consumers from being overcharged.
While it prevents extreme overpricing, it’s no guarantee of value, especially as fixed-rate tariffs can be significantly cheaper during periods of price stability.
Next Steps for Households
- Check your tariff – Find out when your current fixed deal ends.
- Use a comparison tool – Ensure it shows all available deals, not just paid listings.
- Switch up to 49 days early – Avoid exit fees and secure a cheaper plan.
- Review your tax code – As wages and bills change, it’s worth checking to ensure correct taxation.
Further Resources
- Uswitch Fixed Energy Deals
- Check your energy tariff end date
- MoneySavingExpert Energy Tracker
