Why Is My Electricity Bill So High in the UK?

Main reasons

• Estimated readings instead of actual reads
• Standing charge changes
• Tariff expiry or rate increase
• Seasonal usage spikes
• Wrong billing period dates

What to check in 2 minutes

• Compare unit rate (p/kWh)
• Check standing charge per day and days billed
• Verify billing period dates
• Confirm meter readings match your photos
• Check if there were two rates on one bill

Quick calculation

Use the kWh → cost calculator to sanity‑check usage cost, then add standing charge.

If something looks wrong

1. Ask for reading history (opening/closing reads) and whether reads were actual/estimated
2. Request a calculation breakdown (rates + days + kWh)
3. If wrong, raise a formal complaint and keep a timeline
4. If unresolved, follow dispute steps and escalate as appropriate

Related pages

• Unit rate & kWh explained
• Standing charge explained
• Dispute steps
• Smart meters

Updated 2026-02-18