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Energy price cap in Great Britain to rise by 13% from July
Ofgem said the higher cap reflects volatile gas markets, with a typical household set to pay about £18 more a month.
On Wednesday, May 27, 2026, energy regulator Ofgem announced a 13% rise to the energy price cap effective July 1, 2026 for typical households in England, Scotland and Wales, lifting annual bills to about £1,862.
Since the Iran war began earlier this year, European energy markets have surged, with month-ahead gas futures in Britain up more than 40% as the Middle East conflict threatens shipments through the Strait of Hormuz from the Persian Gulf.
Breaking down the increase, typical households will pay an extra £18 monthly, as Ofgem says gas and electricity bills will rise unevenly, with gas up 24% versus around 5% for electricity from the current £1,641 cap.
Simon Francis, End Fuel Poverty Coalition coordinator, warned households face rising direct debits and harder-to-clear energy debts, saying "We are also worried that energy firms will now factor higher costs into direct debit calculations."
Industry body Energy UK estimates household energy debt could reach £7 billion by the end of 2026 if prices stay high, while The Government plans targeted support and Chancellor said it will act "if market conditions worsen significantly".
Energy bills to rise for millions as price cap increases
Six O'Clock News discuss Ofgem’s 13% rise in Great Britain’s energy price cap from July and warnings of further hikes amid Iran-related market disruption