Budget Energy to raise electricity tariffs by 4% from January 2026

Budget Energy customers are set to face higher electricity bills early next year as the supplier prepares to increase its tariff by 4% from 15 January 2026.

The rise means a typical credit customer will see their annual bill increase by around £47, while a typical prepayment customer will pay around £46 more per year.

According to the Consumer Council, the average annual bill for Budget Energy customers will now reach £1,281 for credit customers and £1,270 for prepayment customers.

Raymond Gormley, Head of Energy at the Consumer Council, said:

“From 15 January 2026, a typical Budget Energy credit customer will see their annual electricity bill increase to around £1,281 and a typical prepayment customer will see their annual costs increase to around £1,270.

“The main reason for this increase is rising network operating costs.

“We would encourage consumers to think about the way they pay for their energy and see if they can reduce their energy costs. Being on a standard tariff and paying on receipt of a bill is the most expensive way to pay for your electricity.

“Switching payment option, changing billing method, or even switching supplier may save you money.”

The Consumer Council is urging households to assess whether they could cut costs by reviewing how they pay for their energy or by switching tariff or supplier.

To help consumers navigate the changes, the organisation provides a free, independent electricity price comparison tool, enabling households to compare all electricity and gas tariffs across Northern Ireland in one place.

Customers without internet access or who require additional support can contact the Consumer Council directly by calling 0800 121 6022 or emailing contact@consumercouncil.org.uk.

The increase marks another upward shift in energy costs at a time when many households continue to face wider financial pressures.

With network operating costs identified as the key driver, Budget Energy’s announcement adds to ongoing concerns about affordability and long-term stability in the Northern Ireland energy market.

Visit the Consumer Council’s trusted price comparison tool by tapping the button below to see if you could save by switching supplier.

Price Comparison Tool