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Written question asked by Joe Robertson (Conservative) on Thursday, 15 October 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 20 October 2026 (named day). It was answered by Polly Billington (Labour) on Tuesday, 20 October 2026 on behalf of the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero.

Energy: Standing Charges

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment she has made of the potential financial impact of daily energy standing charges on pensioners and other low-income households who consume little or no energy; and what steps she is taking to help ensure such households benefit from the introduction of low and zero standing charge tariffs.

Answer

The Government knows that many people are concerned with the proportion of their bill that is made up of standing charges – that is why the Government made a commitment in its manifesto to reform them.

Earlier this year, the Government confirmed its intention that the costs of the Warm Home Discount should be moved from standing charges to unit rates, better aligning contributions to policy costs with energy use. Also, on 26 June 2026, Ofgem approved the first zero standing charge tariff trial, with other similar trials being launched.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
35482
Session
2026-27
Subjects
Energy Pensioners Low incomes Standing charges
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk