UK households urged to switch before 13% energy price cap rise on July 1

Ofgem will raise the UK energy price cap by 13% on 1 July, affecting more than 18 million households on standard variable tariffs and adding an estimated £4 billion to household costs. The increase translates to an annual rise of about £221 per household, though the immediate impact may be modest as it coincides with the summer heating low‑season.

Uswitch reports that 27 fixed‑rate tariffs are currently cheaper than the new cap, offering potential annual savings of up to £284. Energy expert Ben Gallizzi urges consumers to act quickly, noting that 66% of bill‑payers say a 10% price rise would strain finances, 17% would cut essential spending, and one‑in‑ten would dip into savings. Geographic hotspots for switching include Manchester, Walsall, Weston‑Super‑Marine and Torquay, while Milton Keynes shows the lowest activity.