From 1 October 2025, Ofgem has announced another increase in the UK energy price cap — a change set to affect homes and businesses across Greater Manchester, including Stockport. Whether you run a small business or live in a family home, this update will have real impact over the coming months. Below we explain what’s changing, who will feel it most, what you can do — and how renewable energy solutions might help now and in the future.
What is the Energy Price Cap?
Ofgem’s price cap is the maximum amount that energy suppliers can charge households on default tariffs (standard variable tariffs) per unit of energy, plus the standing charges. It’s reviewed every three months. (Ofgem)
It covers both gas and electricity, and applies to different payment methods (Direct Debit, standard credit, prepayment, etc).
The cap is meant to protect consumers from extreme swings in energy costs, by putting an upper limit on what suppliers can charge. But it doesn’t stop bills rising — it just limits how quickly or how much.
Why is the Cap Changing Again?
Several factors are pushing the cap up from 1 October into December 2025:
- Wholesales costs of gas and electricity remain volatile. Although some costs have fallen since the height of the energy crisis in 2022–23, they are still significant.
- Network costs (transporting energy, maintaining the electricity grid and gas networks) are increasing. Suppliers need to account for infrastructure upgrades and the cost of keeping supply secure.
- Costs linked to government schemes and essential support add to what energy companies have to recover. These are included within the cap.
How Much Will Bills Really Increase?
Here are the headline figures:
- A typical household using both gas and electricity and paying by Direct Debit will see annual bills rise to £1,755 from October to December 2025. This is about 2% higher than the previous quarter. (Ofgem)
- Compared with the same period in 2024 (1 October–31 December), that’s roughly £35.14 more per year, or about £2.93 more per month.
- However, although bills are up from last quarter, they are still significantly lower than during the peak of the energy crisis in early 2023. For instance, the current figure (£1,755) is about £625 (26.3%) lower than then.
Here are some of the unit and standing charges from October–December 2025:
| Type | Unit Rate (per kWh) | Daily Standing Charge |
| Electricity (Direct Debit, England/Wales/Scotland avg) | 26.35 p/kWh | 53.68 p/day (Ofgem) |
| Gas (same conditions) | 6.29 p/kWh | 34.03 p/day (Ofgem) |
These are averages; your actual bills depend heavily on how much energy you use, what meter you have, your payment method, and your location. Stockport households or businesses with inefficient heating, poorly insulated buildings, or higher usage will of course feel the pinch more.
Who Will Be Most Affected?
- Residential users with high consumption: Large older houses, poorly insulated homes, electric heating, etc., especially in Greater Manchester and Stockport where winter heating needs are significant.
- Small businesses: Especially those with high heating or process energy needs (e.g. hospitality, retail, small manufacturing) — their bills will rise, and margins may be squeezed.
- People on default tariffs (especially if they haven’t switched) will face the full force of the cap increase.
- Low-income households, or those on fixed incomes, or with less ability to improve insulation or invest in efficiency, will struggle more.
Will Bills Drop Again After Winter?
Possibly — but not guaranteed. The price cap is reviewed quarterly: January–March 2026 rates will be published by 25 November 2025.
If wholesale energy prices fall, network costs moderate, or government support schemes adapt, there could be reductions. Inflation or further supply constraints could push things the other way. In short: yes, there is a chance of bills dropping again once the worst of winter is over — but it will depend on many factors.
Standing Charges — What Are They & How Much Do They Matter?
Standing charges are fixed daily costs that cover getting energy to your property (meter maintenance, infrastructure) regardless of how much you use. Even if your usage is very low, these charges still apply.
As from 1 October 2025:
- Electricity standing charge: 53.68 pence per day
- Gas standing charge: 34.03 pence per day
These add up over time. Over a month, that could be £15–£25 just in standing charges, depending on property and fuel mix.
What Can Consumers Do?
Both households and businesses in Stockport and Greater Manchester can take action to reduce the impact of the price cap rise. Here are some strategies:
- Review your energy tariff
- Check if you are on a default (standard variable) tariff. If so, switching to a fixed-rate or better deal could save you money.
- Compare suppliers and tariff deals — sometimes small savings add up.
- Reduce energy usage where possible
- Improve insulation: loft insulation, cavity wall insulation, double-glazing.
- Draught proofing, using thermostats and smart heating controls.
- Using more efficient appliances, LED lighting, turning off standby.
- Behavioural changes: lower heating a degree or two; limit usage in unused rooms.
- Seek direct support if eligible
- Check government grants and schemes in Greater Manchester (cold weather payments, Warm Home Discount, etc.).
- Speak to your supplier if you’re struggling to pay — many offer payment plans, emergency credit etc.
- Local borough initiatives (Stockport MBC, Greater Manchester Combined Authority) may have support funds.
- Explore renewable energy & efficiency investments
- Solar panels: generate your own electricity, possibly reducing reliance on grid energy especially in daylight hours.
- Battery storage: store excess solar for use during peak times.
- Heat pumps: more efficient heating than gas or electric resistive heating.
- Energy efficiency upgrades: solar thermal, improved insulation, double/triple glazing, upgraded boilers.
- Consider aggregators or community energy schemes where applicable.
Renewables won’t completely shield you overnight — there’s upfront cost — but over winter and in the years ahead they can reduce your exposure to rising energy costs.
What We at Solarus Can Do to Help
If you are based in Stockport or Greater Manchester and would like help navigating this difficult winter, we’re here for you. At Solarus:
- We are Which? Trusted Traders, Octopus Trusted Partners, NICEIC and MCS certified — ensuring high quality, safe, and reliable service.
- We can help assess your property/business to suggest renewable energy installations (solar panels, batteries, heat pumps), insulation, and energy efficiency upgrades.
- We can advise on switching tariffs, applying for grants, understanding your bills.
Final Thoughts
The increase to the energy price cap from 1 October 2025 means households and businesses across Stockport and Greater Manchester need to brace for higher bills this winter. The rise is modest compared to past peaks, but for many it still represents a squeeze.
By reviewing your tariffs, improving energy efficiency, exploring renewables, and seeking support, you can reduce the impact. And while there is hope for some relief once spring arrives and market pressures ease, the best defence is acting proactively now.
If you’d like a free consultation, or just want to talk through your options, get in touch with Solarus today. 0161 674 0390 or hello@solarus.co.uk