Budgeting for Rising Energy Bills: 3 Smart Strategies

Rising energy bills are squeezing household budgets across the UK. So, how much are energy bills rising? Ofgem’s cap for July – September 2025 stands at £1,720 a year, 10% (£152) higher than the same period last year. With prices still 43% above winter 2021/22 levels, smart budgeting has never been more of a priority for families who don’t want to get into debt with their energy provider.

In this blog, we will look at three easy to implement strategies that can help you manage your energy bills and budget enough to pay them.

Keep Track of Usage to Tackle Rising Energy Bills

Before you worry about how much energy bills are rising, you first need to get a clear picture of what you are currently spending. Find your latest bill or meter reading and note how much energy you use each month. Then head to a comparison site, like Uswitch, to see if you can switch to a cheaper plan. With Ofgem’s cap set at £1,720 for July – September 2025, fixed or tracker tariffs can lock in a better rate and shield you from future spikes. A few minutes spent comparing deals could save you money and keep rising energy bills in check.

Smart Habits to Cut Costs

Cutting how much energy you use is the quickest way to bring down rising energy bills.

While these changes cut costs, it is also worth weighing whether finding new income streams could outperform extra savings. Small habits add up fast, keeping your home warm and your bills down.

Spread Your Costs with Payment Plans

Worried about how much energy bills are rising? Spreading your payments evenly can ease the shock of big spikes. Switch to a direct debit and ask your supplier to smooth your yearly cost into 12 equal monthly payments. That way, a sudden rise won’t hit you with a huge bill, just a predictable amount each month.

As it is currently summer, you can pay a bit more now on your bill and it will help you manage those rising bills that are sure to come when winter begins and the heating and lights need to be on more hours of the day.

Many suppliers offer pay-as-you-go smart tariffs, where you top up in small amounts and track your balance in real time. If you are struggling to make your payments, check that you have received your government grants, like the Winter Fuel Payment or contact your local council to see if they will help with energy costs. It is possible that these schemes could cut hundreds off your annual spend and make rising energy bills more manageable.

Conclusion

Rising energy bills are not something that can be ignored. They are being felt all across the UK. But you can take some steps to keep costs under control. First, review your usage and switch to the best tariff. Next, adopt smart habits, such as LED bulbs and smart meters, to cut down your consumption. Finally, spread the cost with payment plans and tap into grants if you need support. Act now to take on those rising energy bills and keep your finances on track.

More Information

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