Households in Great Britain could reduce their energy costs by moving from a default tariff to a fixed deal before the price cap rises in October. The change could also provide protection against a further increase forecast for January, although future prices are not yet confirmed.

From 1 October, the price cap will rise by 4% to an annual equivalent of £1,723 for a typical household, following a 13% increase in July. The cheapest cited fixed tariff, from Fuse Energy, costs £1,550 a year for typical use—£173 below the October cap—while other suppliers offer savings of more than £100; consumers should check contract lengths and exit fees before switching. Analysts at Cornwall Insight forecast a further 9% rise in January, potentially taking typical bills to about £1,872, while a temporary zero VAT rate on domestic electricity is expected to save a typical household £45 a year.