Energy price cap review: How employers can support with rising bills

As Ofgem’s latest energy price cap review hits the headlines once again, the financial pressure on UK households continues to mount. Despite minor fluctuations, energy bills remain significantly higher than pre-crisis levels. For many working households, especially lower to middle earners, this is creating real concern about how to make ends meet. 

While employers can’t control energy prices, they can play a powerful role in helping their people manage the impact. Smart, cost-effective employee benefits are no longer just a “nice to have” - they’re an essential part of the support ecosystem. 

So how can businesses respond? 

Understand the current climate

The latest energy price cap, which sets the maximum amount suppliers can charge per unit of energy, continues to keep bills high. With standing charges remaining fixed and wholesale energy costs still volatile, many employees are facing hundreds of pounds more on their annual utility bills. 

These rising costs contribute to wider financial stress, lower productivity, and reduced wellbeing at work. That’s where proactive employers can step in. 

Offer practical financial support – not just pay rises. 

While pay increases help, they’re not always feasible, and not all businesses’ can afford to give their employees pay rises each year. Especially for SMEs or during economic uncertainty. That’s where BHN Extras comes in. 

Our employee benefits offer flexible, everyday savings through a range of workplace benefits that support their mental, physical, and financial wellbeing: 

• Discounted grocery and retail gift cards 

• Cycle to Work Scheme: saving money on everyday commuting 

• Home & Tech: the smart way to save on essentials with Currys and IKEA 

• Green Car Benefit: the affordable green car solution 

• MyGymDiscounts: discounts across a range of gym memberships 

• Prepaid shopping card with cashback savings across a range of retailers 

These aren’t just “perks” - they’re tools your team can use to stretch their salary further right now. 

Focus on everyday essentials

When energy prices surge, employees look for savings in other areas. Helping them reduce grocery, fuel, or clothing costs frees up money to go toward household bills. BHN Extras enables savings at major UK supermarkets and retailers - supporting families where it matters most. 

Communicate and champion the benefits.

It’s not enough to have benefits in place. Make sure your teams know about them and how to use them. 

We recommend: 

• Regular internal communications 

• Launch events or webinars 

• Monthly “benefits spotlight” features 

• Line manager training to champion uptake 

Our team at BHN Extras can support you with engagement toolkits and ready-to-use templates. 

Employers that support their staff through cost-of-living challenges see better retention, engagement, and productivity. It’s a win-win. Offering meaningful, accessible benefits positions your organisation as a responsible and caring employer. 

Help your people today, not tomorrow. 

Rising energy bills may be out of your hands - but helping your people cope isn’t. With BHN Extras, you can offer real support that goes beyond the payslip.  

Discover our full benefits range and speak to our team about how we can tailor a package to support your workforce. Contact us and speak to a member of our friendly team!