British Gas Bill Breakdown: Understand Your Energy Charges

British Gas

Here you will find your Account Number, important in any communication with British Gas support team.

Information about the time period of consumption for your bill.

How much you owe for this bill period. For those paying by monthly direct debit, this can sometimes be in credit as usage changes throughout the year.

Gas and electricity consumption for the period covered by this bill. It can be estimated if you haven’t provided the exact figures.

You need to pay your bill by this date. If you pay your bill in time, you will get Prompt Payment discount on your next bill as well.

Here British Gas suggests you its cheapest gas tariff and what it could save you annually based on your consumption if you switch. (You need to be on Direct Debit to see this tariff).

Here British Gas suggests you its cheapest electricity tariff and what it could save you annually based on your consumption if you switch. (You need to be on Direct Debit to see this tariff).

1

Name of your supplier:

British Gas

2

Customer Reference Number:

Here you will find your Account Number, important in any communication with British Gas support team.

3

Bill period:

Information about the time period of consumption for your bill.

4

Your Bill amount:

How much you owe for this bill period. For those paying by monthly direct debit, this can sometimes be in credit as usage changes throughout the year.

5

Consumption:

Gas and electricity consumption for the period covered by this bill. It can be estimated if you haven’t provided the exact figures.

6

When do I pay?

You need to pay your bill by this date. If you pay your bill in time, you will get Prompt Payment discount on your next bill as well.

7

Gas Saving:

Here British Gas suggests you its cheapest gas tariff and what it could save you annually based on your consumption if you switch. (You need to be on Direct Debit to see this tariff).

8

Electricity Saving:

Here British Gas suggests you its cheapest electricity tariff and what it could save you annually based on your consumption if you switch. (You need to be on Direct Debit to see this tariff).

This is your current tariff and how you are paying for your bills. Your current tariff name is required while you compare on our website. It also shows current tariff’s End date and exit fees if you switch early. Though you can switch without incurring termination fees 42 days before this date.

This is your annual consumption of gas and electricity in kWh. This is always estimated, unless you provide regular meter readings. (You’ll need this info to switch)

TCR (Tariff Comparison Rate) is a guide helps to compare tariffs across the suppliers. It is based on Ofgem’s average usage figures. It is always advisable to compare tariffs on comparison websites as we suggest estimated spending and savings.

This is the cost of gas and electricity per unit (1kWh) applicable based on your current tariffs.

This is your Standing Charge for gas and electricity, the cost per day for having the chosen supplier provide energy to your home regardless if any energy is used.

This is the calculation used to convert a meter read into Gas usage in kWh (kilowatt hours).

9

Your Tariff and Payment method:

This is your current tariff and how you are paying for your bills. Your current tariff name is required while you compare on our website. It also shows current tariff’s End date and exit fees if you switch early. Though you can switch without incurring termination fees 42 days before this date.

10

Consumption:

This is your annual consumption of gas and electricity in kWh. This is always estimated, unless you provide regular meter readings. (You’ll need this info to switch)

11

About your TCR:

TCR (Tariff Comparison Rate) is a guide helps to compare tariffs across the suppliers. It is based on Ofgem’s average usage figures. It is always advisable to compare tariffs on comparison websites as we suggest estimated spending and savings.

12

Cost of energy:

This is the cost of gas and electricity per unit (1kWh) applicable based on your current tariffs.

13

Standing charge

This is your Standing Charge for gas and electricity, the cost per day for having the chosen supplier provide energy to your home regardless if any energy is used.

14

 

This is the calculation used to convert a meter read into Gas usage in kWh (kilowatt hours).

This unique number identifies the Gas supply at your property and it is required while switching your supplier on our website.

This unique number identifies the electricity supply at your property and it is required while switching your supplier on our website. If you have an Economy 7 meter, it should start with “02” on the top left.

15

Gas MPRN (Meter Point Reference Number):

This unique number identifies the Gas supply at your property and it is required while switching your supplier on our website.

16

Electricity MPAN (Meter Point Administration Number):

This unique number identifies the electricity supply at your property and it is required while switching your supplier on our website. If you have an Economy 7 meter, it should start with “02�? on the top left.

Content in this article

British Gas is one of the UK’s largest energy suppliers, providing gas and electricity to millions of households. Whether you’re on a fixed tariff, variable tariff, or the standard variable tariff, understanding your energy bill is essential to managing energy costs.

How to Read Your British Gas Bill

A British Gas energy bill contains multiple sections detailing your energy use, tariff type, and payment method. Below is an overview of what you’ll find on your bill:

Section Description
Account Summary Overview of your energy account, showing balance and recent payments.
Energy Usage Breakdown of electricity usage and gas consumption in kWh.
Meter Readings Your latest meter readings (actual or estimated).
Tariff Details Your energy tariff type (e.g., fixed rate or variable rate).
Unit Rate The price you pay per kWh of electricity or unit of gas.
Standing Charge The fixed daily cost of maintaining your energy connection.
VAT & Charges VAT and any additional costs applied.

Key Charges on Your British Gas Bill

1. Standing Charge (Daily Fixed Cost)

A standing charge is a fixed daily amount that covers the costs of maintaining the energy network.

Fuel Type Standing Charge (p/day) (April – June 2024)
Electricity 60.99p
Gas 31.66p

Why It Matters: Even if you use zero energy, you still pay the standing charge.

2. Unit Rate (Cost Per kWh of Energy)

The unit rate is the price you pay for each unit of energy (kWh) consumed. Rates vary depending on whether you’re on a fixed tariff, variable tariff, or the standard variable tariff under the Ofgem price cap.

Tariff Type Electricity (p/kWh) Gas (p/kWh)
Standard Variable Tariff 24.50p 6.24p
Fixed Rate Tariff 25.10p 6.50p
Variable Rate Tariff Varies by market rates Varies by market rates

Tip: To control energy costs, compare price cap rates and latest predictions for the best deals.

3. Meter Readings & Energy Usage

Your energy bill is calculated based on meter readings from your gas meter and electricity meter. If you don’t provide regular meter readings, British Gas may estimate your energy consumption, which could lead to higher bills.

Meter Type How It Works
Smart Meter Automatically sends readings to British Gas.
Traditional Meter Requires manual submission via your online account or customer service.

Check your bill to ensure you are being charged for your exact usage, not an estimated amount.

Compare Energy Prices

Thinking about changing your energy provider?

Compare Now

Impact of Ofgem’s Price Cap on British Gas Bills

On 25th February 2025, Ofgem announced a 6.4% increase in the energy price cap, effective from 1st April 2025. This adjustment affects customers on standard variable tariffs, including those with British Gas.

Latest Price Cap (April – June 2025)

The table below outlines the updated price cap rates for a typical UK household:

Charge Type Price Cap Rate
Annual Cap for Typical Household £1,849
Electricity Unit Rate 27.03p per kWh
Gas Unit Rate 6.99p per kWh
Electricity Standing Charge 53.80p per day
Gas Standing Charge 32.67p per day

Note: These rates are averages; actual charges may vary based on regional factors and individual consumption patterns.

What This Means for British Gas Customers

  • Standard Variable Tariff Customers: If you're on a standard variable tariff, your rates will adjust to align with the new price cap levels from 1st April 2025. This translates to an average increase of £111 annually, or approximately £9.25 per month. ofgem.gov.uk
  • Fixed Tariff Customers: Those on a fixed energy tariff will not be immediately impacted by this change. Your rates remain constant for the duration of your contract. However, upon contract renewal, it's advisable to review available tariffs, as market conditions may have shifted.

Understanding the Price Cap Increase

The primary drivers behind this price cap rise include:

  • Wholesale Energy Costs: A significant surge in global gas prices has been observed, influenced by factors such as a colder winter and increased demand. thetimes.co.uk
  • Policy and Operational Costs: Inflationary pressures and policy-related expenses have also contributed to the overall increase. ofgem.gov.uk

    Payment Methods & Direct Debit Discounts

British Gas offers several payment methods, but monthly direct debit often results in average savings due to discounts.

Payment Method Benefits Drawbacks
Monthly Direct Debit Lower rates, predictable payments, easier budgeting. Overpayments if estimates are too high.
Pay on Receipt Pay only for exact usage. No direct debit discount, risk of late fees.
Prepayment Meter Pay as you go, no unexpected bills. Higher unit rate, risk of running out of credit.

Direct debit payments provide peace of mind by ensuring bills are paid automatically.

How to Reduce Your British Gas Bill

Here are some new ways to lower your energy bill:

  • Submit regular meter readings – Ensures accurate billing.
  • Switch to a smart meter – Tracks your energy use in real time.
  • Choose a fixed rate tariff – Avoid price fluctuations.
  • Check your direct debit amount – Ensure it aligns with your actual energy consumption.
  • Improve energy efficiency of your home – Small changes like LED bulbs and better insulation help.
  • Compare energy suppliers – Look for a better deal to cut energy costs.

FAQs About British Gas Bills

Why is my British Gas bill higher than expected?

Your energy bill may be higher due to estimated readings, changes in the price cap, increased energy usage, or being on a variable rate tariff.

What is the difference between standing charge and unit rate?

  • Standing charge: A fixed daily cost you pay regardless of usage.
  • Unit rate: The price per kWh of electricity or unit of gas consumed.

Does British Gas offer discounts for direct debit payments?

Yes, paying by monthly direct debit often results in lower rates compared to pay-on-receipt.

How do I check my British Gas tariff details?

Log in to your online account to see your energy tariff, unit rate, and standing charge.

Can I switch to a different British Gas tariff?

Yes, you can switch between tariffs, but check for an exit fee if you’re on a fixed tariff.

Compare Energy Prices

Thinking about changing your energy provider?

Compare Now

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Page last updated on: 05/05/2025

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