UK households urged to submit meter readings as energy price cap rises 13%

Effective 1 July 2026, Ofgem raised the energy price cap by 13%, increasing the typical annual bill from £1,641 to £1,862 – an extra £221 per year, roughly £18 per month. The hike, driven by higher wholesale gas prices linked to the Middle‑East conflict, lifts electricity unit rates from 24.67p/kWh to 26.11p/kWh and gas rates from 5.74p/kWh to 7.33p/kWh.

Around 5.3 million households on standard variable tariffs without smart meters have been told to submit a meter reading before the new rates take effect, to avoid estimated usage being billed at the higher cap. Energy experts and consumer‑advocacy groups recommend checking for cheaper fixed‑tariff deals, comparing offers and using smart‑meter data where available.

Government officials highlighted existing support schemes such as the Warm Home Discount and urged vulnerable consumers to contact suppliers for assistance. While warmer summer weather may soften the immediate impact, analysts expect winter bills to be higher as heating demand returns.