Households Urged to Submit Energy Meter Readings as Ofgem Price Cap Increases Bills 13%
UK households face a 13% average increase in annual energy bills, effective from today, as the new Ofgem price cap comes into force. Consumers are being advised to submit up-to-date meter readings to their suppliers, a measure intended to prevent erroneous billing based on outdated estimates.
The typical household energy bill is now expected to reach £1,928 per year, a rise of £172 from the previous cap. This adjustment is projected to impact approximately 29 million households across England, Wales, and Scotland. Northern Ireland operates under a distinct regulatory framework.
Campaigners highlight that submitting meter readings ensures that all energy consumed prior to the cap increase is billed at the lower, older rate. Without current readings, suppliers may estimate usage, potentially charging the higher new rate for energy consumed before the cap change.
Energy suppliers such as EDF and British Gas have actively encouraged their customers to submit readings. However, providers acknowledge that a surge in submissions could lead to website and phone line congestion. Customers unable to submit readings on the exact day of the cap change are advised to do so as close to the date as possible.
While the price cap dictates the maximum unit rate and standing charge suppliers can levy, the total bill remains dependent on actual energy consumption. Government support for energy costs, including the Energy Price Guarantee, concluded in June 2023, leaving households fully exposed to the latest cap increase.
