UK energy price hike: Gas and electricity bills set to soar for 15 million households

On standard tariffs, the cap on average annual gas and electricity use will increase by £139 to £1,277 per year. This method is now used by 11 million households in the UK.   The annual cap on pre-paid energy, which is used by nearly four million homes, will rise by £153 to £1,309, a 13 percent increase.
The changes will come into effect on October 1.Jonathan Brearley, chief executive of Ofgem, said: “Higher energy bills are never welcome and the timing and size of this increase will be particularly difficult for many families still struggling with the impact of the pandemic.
“With the price cap, suppliers can only pass on legitimate energy supply costs and cannot charge more than the price cap level, while they can charge less.”
“If you’re struggling to pay your bill you can get in touch with your supplier to access the help that’s available and if possible, shop around for a better deal.
“I understand that this is disappointing news for many people; nevertheless, I promise to customers that Ofgem will continue to do all possible to protect them during winter, particularly those in vulnerable circumstances.”

James Plunkett of Citizens Advice said: “This price hike could lead to a perfect storm for families this autumn, hitting people at the same time as a Universal Credit cut and the end of furlough. It’s particularly worrying given families on Universal Credit are far more likely to already be in energy debt.

“With rising bills and falling incomes, many families will find it difficult to escape.” For many, debt will be an inevitable consequence
“It all adds to the growing case to rethink the government’s planned cut to Universal Credit and keep this lifeline which has been vital to keeping so many afloat.”