From 1st October 2025, the UK energy price cap is increasing again, up by around 2%. That means the average household on a standard tariff will now pay about £1,755 a year for gas and electricity.

While the rise itself is modest, it’s another reminder that energy bills are still unpredictable. Even when wholesale costs settle, other charges (like standing charges and network costs) continue to creep up. For many households, this feels like being stuck on a rollercoaster you never asked to ride.

So, how do you step off and take back control? That’s where solar panels, battery storage, and smart EV charging come in.

Why Solar Panels Make Sense Right Now

Installing solar panels allows you to generate your own clean electricity from sunlight, cutting down the amount you need to buy from the grid. Every unit of power your panels produce is one you don’t pay for and with prices going up, those savings add up faster than ever.

In places like Somerset, Wiltshire, Bath and Bristol, where we install solar, homeowners are already seeing real benefits. Solar PV isn’t just about “being green” anymore it’s one of the smartest investments you can make in your home.

The Power of Battery Storage

Pairing solar panels with a home battery makes the system even more effective. During the day, your panels might produce more energy than you’re using. Instead of sending it back to the grid, you can store it in your battery and use it later. For example, in the evening when prices are highest.

This means you can cover more of your daily energy needs from your own supply, making your home less exposed to future price rises.

EV Chargers & Off-Peak Savings

If you drive an electric car, adding a home EV charger takes things one step further. By combining solar panels, a battery, and a smart charger, you can:

• Charge your EV directly from solar power.

• Top up your battery or car overnight on cheaper off-peak tariffs.

• Reduce your reliance on the grid during peak hours.

For many families, EV charging is one of the biggest household energy costs. Using a smart charging setup could save hundreds of pounds a year.

Future-Proofing Your Home

The truth is, none of us can control what happens in the global energy market. But with the right technology at home, you can protect yourself from price volatility and keep your bills predictable.

By installing solar panels, battery storage and EV chargers, you’ll:

• Lower your energy bills.

• Make your home more resilient to price hikes.

• Reduce your carbon footprint.

• Add long-term value to your property.

Take Control Before the Next Rise

October’s price cap increase is a timely reminder: relying 100% on the grid leaves you exposed. The good news is, more and more households across Somerset and Wiltshire are choosing solar and battery storage to take back control.

If you’d like to explore how this could work for your home, JCE Contracting can help. With over 25 years of electrical experience, we design and install bespoke solar, battery and EV charging systems to suit your lifestyle and budget.

👉 Get in touch today to book a free, no-obligation consultation and see how much you could save.