Energy Advice Hub
UPDATED FOR AUGUST 2026
The current military conflict in the MIddle East continues to have an impact on energy bills, in particular following the 1st of October when the UK's Energy Price Cap will change once again Estimates are that typical annual energy bills will increase by a further 4% from October. Ore Valley HA will be monitoring the situation and will udpate this webpage with relevant links and information as and when it comes available.
Energy price cap rates 1 st October to 31st December 2026 -
You are not affected by the changes to the energy price cap if you have changed to a fixed rate tariff.
Electricity rates
If you are on a standard variable tariff (default tariff) and pay for your electricity by Direct Debit, you will pay on average 26.32 pence per kilowatt hour (kWh). The daily standing charge is 54.83 pence per day. This is based on the average across England, Scotland and Wales. It does not include VAT from 1st October 2026 to 31st March 2027.
Gas rates
If you are on a standard variable tariff (default tariff) and pay for your gas by Direct Debit, you will pay on average 7.97 pence per kilowatt hour (kWh). The daily standing charge is 29.68 pence per day. This is based on the average across England, Scotland and Wales and includes VAT at 5%.
Summary -
The challenge of high utility bills, fuel poverty and inflation have never been more acute. This page aims to provide guidance, tips and advice for tenants looking for support on how to minimise the impact of the rise in the cost of living and save on carbon emissions.
Most of the UK’s utility companies have rolled out their own information and support funds to help. Below is a list of the support available.
British Gas -
British Gas have created a £25million support fund for everyone (even if you’re not a customer) - you can apply for financial support awards of between £250 and £750.
https://www.britishgas.co.uk/british-gas-energy-support-fund.html
E-On -
E-On have a new web page offering support on energy reduction
https://www.eonnext.com/policies/energy-efficiency
https://www.eonnext.com/policies/struggling-to-pay
EDF -
EDF offer debt advice, smart meter assistance and grants from their Priority Support Fund.
https://www.edfenergy.com/for-home/help-support/energy-bill-debt-advice
Scottish Power -
Scottish Power have a broad range of support available for customers including their Warm Homes discount Scheme and Hardship Fund.
https://www.scottishpower.co.uk/affordability
OVO Energy (now incorporating SSE) -
OVO will be announcing their customer support package from Thursday the 1st of September. Full details are available on their dedicated support webpage.
https://www.ovoenergy.com/pricecap
https://www.ovoenergy.com/extra-support
Octopus Energy (incorporating Bulb Energy) -
Octopus has a dedicated webpage for those needing help with coping with the cost of living crisis. Their Octo Assist fund is offering £7million in support.
https://octopus.energy/blog/bill-support/
Good Energy -
Good Energy similarly have a page dedicated to the energy crisis here:
https://www.goodenergy.co.uk/support/articles/what-to-do-if-youre-struggling-to-pay-for-your-energy/
Sainsbury’s Energy -
Sainsburys have a page dedicated to the crisis here:
https://www.sainsburysenergy.com/price-cap.html
Co-op Energy -
Co-op Energy have further details here:
https://energy.yourcoop.coop/help-resources/blog/July-Energy-Price-Cap-Rise-2025/
Below is our continuing series of energy saving advice videos with hints and tips on how best to use your home's heating system, saving money and budgeting. Also enclosed are leaflets with guidance on energy saving, utility bills, minimising condensation and how to maximise the benefits of solar panels on your home (if you have them on your property).
Citizens Advice Scotland -
CAS have a comprehensive guide on support available for Scottish households which can be found here.
Other Guides -
Utility Bill Price Rises Leaflet
Solar PV Guide for Weavers Row
Solar PV Guide for Carden Mill Brae
66A Rosewell Drive - Property Guide
66B Rosewell Drive - Property Guide
.png){kind=logo}