Data from energy regulator Ofgem reveals that around 62% of households remain trapped
Some 10% of customers who switched using MoneySuperMarket saved £851(Image: SimpleImages via Getty Images)
Millions of households could cut hundreds of pounds from their energy bills as wintry weather threatens to grip Britain. With the Met Office warning that chillier conditions – and even snow – could be approaching, families are being urged to act swiftly to avoid paying excessive amounts to heat their homes.
Data from energy regulator Ofgem reveals that around 62% of households remain trapped on their supplier’s Standard Variable Rate (SVR) – the most costly tariff providers are permitted to charge. These customers could be losing out on savings of up to £851 annually simply by switching to a fixed-rate energy deal, according to savings data from Decision Tech.
Some 10% of customers who switched using MoneySuperMarket saved £851, based on its December 2025 figures. Alastair Douglas, chief executive of TotallyMoney, said many households were preparing themselves for a painful increase in bills just as temperatures start to drop.
He said: “With the warning that colder weather, and even snow could be on its way, households across the UK will be turning up their radiators while worrying about the spike in their energy bills. But with six in ten are paying the maximum their supplier is able to charge, and could save up to £851 by switching to a new fixed-rate energy deal.
“If you’ve not moved suppliers in a while, check your account to see if you’re free to move, and if you’re already locked into a deal, look at the small print to see if there are any early exit fees and charges for leaving early. When it comes to energy suppliers, remember that loyalty doesn’t pay, but switching can.
“And it might be more straight forward than you think, as all your pipes and plugs stay the same, the switch takes place remotely, and it should be done within five working days. If not, you’ll get £40 in compensation which the supplier must pay within 10 days, and if you change your mind about the new provider, you have 14 days to cancel.”
According to Ofgem regulations, changing energy suppliers shouldn’t exceed five working days. Should this timeframe be breached, customers are owed £40 in compensation, which must be settled within 10 days.
The alert arrives as numerous households confront a challenging winter juggling heating expenses alongside other escalating household costs, with energy consumption typically soaring during freezing spells.
The guidance for households, experts emphasise, is straightforward: those who remain with their current provider risk overpaying, whilst making the switch could deliver swift and significant savings precisely when the cold weather strikes.