Energy bills could rise again this summer - what you can do now
Energy bills fell in April, but current forecasts suggest the price cap could rise again from July.
The predicted increase would affect many households on standard variable tariffs, but the exact amount you pay still depends on your energy use.
If you’re worried about higher bills later this year, LEAP can help you understand your options and plan ahead.
While the latest price cap showed a slight positive improvement from April, forecasts suggest bills could rise again this summer.
The energy price cap fell by 6.7% on 1st April 2026, taking the typical annual bill for a dual-fuel household paying by Direct Debit to £1,641. However, current predictions suggest the cap could rise by an average of 12.3% from 1st July 2026, increasing the typical annual figure to around £1,843.
That does not mean everyone’s bill will increase by exactly the same amount. But it does mean now is a good time to understand what the price cap is, how it could affect what you pay, and what support is available if you’re already struggling.
What is the energy price cap?
The energy price cap is set by Ofgem and limits the amount suppliers can charge for each unit of gas and electricity, plus daily standing charges, for customers on standard variable tariffs. It applies to households paying by Direct Debit, prepayment meter, standard credit and Economy 7.
It’s important to remember that the price cap is not a cap on your total bill. If you use more energy, you will still pay more. If you use less, you should pay less.
What could change from July?
According to three major suppliers, we currently expect the July to September 2026 price cap to rise. The average prediction is a 12.3% increase, taking typical annual costs from £1,641 to £1,843.
Why are prices expected to rise again?
The price cap changes every three months. Ofgem looks at the costs suppliers face, including wholesale energy costs, network costs, policy costs, operating costs and VAT. When those costs rise or fall, the cap can change too.
Ofgem is due to announce the official price cap for 1 July to 30 September 2026 by 27 May 2026.
Will prices keep rising after summer?
The key message is that energy costs are still uncertain. Even a short-term rise can make budgeting harder, especially if you are already behind on payments, using a prepayment meter or trying to manage other household costs.
What can you do now?
You do not need to wait until prices change to take action.
Check your bills and tarrif
Before July, it’s worth checking if your bill is based on actual readings, if your Direct Debit still looks realistic and if you’re on the right tariff for your situation. If you’re struggling to pay, contact your supplier early and ask what support is available.
Reduce wasted energy at home
Small changes at home can also help reduce wasted energy, such as using heating and hot water controls carefully, turning appliances off standby where safe, and fitting LED bulbs and draught-proofing gaps around doors and windows. The aim is not to go without energy you need, but to make sure you’re not paying for energy that is being wasted.
Get support
If you’re worried about what a future price cap rise could mean for you, LEAP can help. A trained advisor can help you understand your bills, look at your energy use and check what support may be available.
Apply for LEAP support online, or call free on 0800 060 7567 in England and Wales, or 0800 029 4543 in Scotland.
