Wednesday, 28 October 2026 Updated 1 hour ago
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Chancellor proposes ending gas standing charges for 23 million homes

The Guardian reported that chancellor John Healey plans to ask energy regulator Ofgem to scrap the fixed daily fee on gas bills for 23 million homes.

Image accompanying the story: Chancellor proposes ending gas standing charges for 23 million homes
Image: Photograph: Joe Giddens/PA · via The Guardian

The Guardian reported that chancellor John Healey plans to ask energy regulator Ofgem to scrap the fixed daily fee on gas bills for 23 million homes. He described the charge as “unfair and outdated” and said its removal could save two‑thirds of households an average of £45 a year. The typical household currently pays about £108 annually in standing charges. Healey made the announcement ahead of his first budget statement in the Commons, scheduled for Wednesday. He said the request would be made for the next year or as soon as possible thereafter. If Ofgem agrees, the change would affect a large share of British consumers and alter how gas costs are calculated.

Why it matters

Eliminating the standing charge would lower energy bills for most households, easing financial pressure on consumers.

Key details

Location
United Kingdom · Europe
Reported by
The Guardian
First reported
Key names
John Healey, Ofgem, Business, Commons
Section
Business

Sources

This is an independent summary. Read the full, original reporting from the publisher:

Read the full story at The Guardian

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