Martin Lewis founded MSE, and the team have urged people to be careful
The Money Saving Expert (MSE) team has warned people that energy prices are predicted to rise after this month. But some homes may be able to slash their bills.
In an update at the start of the month, MSE explains: “On 1 April, the Energy Price Cap fell by 6.7%, meaning a household with typical usage paying by Direct Debit will pay £1,641 a year. The drop in April is largely due the Autumn Budget, when the Government announced it would cut household energy bills by ‘£150’ a year.
“However, from July, analysts are predicting the Price Cap will rise significantly, due to the recent conflict in the Middle East. Plus wholesale costs remain high and network costs are predicted to rise over the next five years.”
How 1.6 million homes could slash bills
To help keep bills as low as possible, homes with solar panels are being urged to use them. MSE say that there are “more than 1.6 million homes across the UK with solar panels.”
It adds: “As well as saving you money on energy bills, solar panels can earn you cash. And don’t worry, they can still generate electricity on gloomy days, vital when the weather’s as dull as dishwater.”
Updated April 13, 2026, its guidance encourages households that already have them to make use of them as soon as possible. But if you don’t have them, it may not be worth it.
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How do solar panels work?
Solar panels convert the sun’s energy into electricity. Inside solar panels – also known as photovoltaics (PV) – are tiny particles called electrons that move when sunlight hits them.
This movement creates an electric current, which is then turned into usable power. Electricity flows through wires to power your devices, lights, and even charge an electric vehicle. Any extra energy can be sent back to the grid, and you may get paid for it.
What are the benefits of solar panels?
MSE stresses that solar panels “give a number of benefits”. And you may not know them all.
- Lower energy bills. Producing your own electricity to power your home and your vehicles means you can reduce the amount you take from the grid – which right now is extremely costly. To maximise savings, you can also invest in a solar battery as well.
- Get paid for any electricity you generate but don’t use. You can get financial incentives from the UK Government under the smart export guarantee, which pays homeowners for excess electricity they generate and feed back to the grid.
- Solar power is clean and green. You’re producing electricity without emitting harmful greenhouse gases, helping to lower your (and the UK’s) carbon footprint.
- Low maintenance. Solar panels have minimal moving parts so require little maintenance. Routine cleaning and occasional checks are usually enough to keep your system running efficiently.
- They could increase your property value. Homes with solar panels can sell for more than those without, as potential buyers are attracted by the savings and eco-friendliness. Though some say that the increase in property value doesn’t outweigh the cost of installation.
I don’t have solar panels – should I get them?
Not always. MSE cautions anyone thinking of getting them to “always check the maths first, to make sure you can recoup the cost of getting them installed.” It notes that while there are many benefits to installing solar panels, it doesn’t mean you should rush out to get them.
Solar power scams
MSE urges people considering solar panels to be wary of scam ads that offer cheap installation or maintenance. It notes that there have been many reports of fake emails and websites.
It explains: “We’ve heard numerous reports of scam emails and websites offering cheap solar panel installation and free health checks, so do be careful.
“It’s important you do your research and use a reputable company before getting solar panels fitted and once you’ve got them, don’t fall for ads trying to sell you solar panel servicing or cleaning.”
You can find out more about solar panels and how to get paid top rates for electricity you export online via the MoneySavingExpert website.
