The energy price cap is rising by 13% from July, which may feel unusual at a time of year when energy use normally drops.
The cap does not limit your total bill; it limits the unit rates and standing charges suppliers can apply to standard variable tariffs.
Households can take action now by checking tariffs, sending meter readings, reducing waste and exploring energy-efficiency support.
What is changing?
Energy bills have been a major concern for households for several years now, and the latest update is one many people will understandably be worried about. From 1st July 2026, the energy price cap is rising by 13%, covering the period from July to September.
This is particularly frustrating because summer is normally when energy bills feel a little lighter. Heating is usually off, daylight lasts longer and many homes naturally use less gas and electricity. However, the price cap itself is still increasing, which means the unit price you pay for energy could rise even if your usage drops.
So, what does this actually mean for your household, and what can you do right now?
What is the Energy Price Cap?
Let’s start with the most important point: the energy price cap is not a cap on your total bill.
It is a limit set by Ofgem on the maximum unit rate and standing charge energy suppliers can charge households on standard variable or default tariffs. The unit rate is the amount you pay for each unit of gas or electricity you use, while the standing charge is the daily amount you pay to stay connected to the network.
This means your final bill still depends on how much energy you use, where you live, how you pay and what type of tariff you are on. If you use more energy, you will still pay more.
That’s why understanding what the energy price cap is can make such a difference. The headline figure is useful, but it is not a guarantee of what your household will pay.
Why is the Cap Rising in July?
Usually, energy use drops in summer, so households might expect some breathing space. This time, the price cap is rising because of higher wholesale gas prices, which continue to affect the wider energy market.
Ofgem has said electricity prices are expected to rise less than gas prices. However, for homes that use both gas and electricity, this change may still be noticeable.
Ofgem is updating the way it presents typical household consumption, because households are now using less energy than before. This means you may see different figures quoted, but the key message remains the same; the rates covered by the cap are going up from July.
Will Everyone Be Affected?
Not everyone will feel the change in the same way. If you are on a fixed tariff, your rates may not change until that deal ends. If you are on a standard variable tariff, the cap is much more likely to affect what you pay.
Your payment method also matters. Paying by Direct Debit can sometimes be cheaper than standard credit, and prepayment customers may see different rates again.
The best thing to do is check your latest bill or online account. Look for your tariff name, unit rates, standing charges and whether your bills are based on actual or estimated readings. Talk to RES if you need help understanding this.
What Can I Do Now?
While you cannot control wholesale energy prices, you can control some of the habits and decisions that shape your bill.
Submit a meter reading
Before the new cap starts, give your supplier an up-to-date reading so your usage is not estimated across the price change.
Check your tariff
Compare your current deal with fixed options, especially if you prefer budget certainty.
Review your Direct Debit
Make sure payments are realistic, but challenge anything that seems too high for your actual usage.
Cut standby waste
Switch off chargers, TVs, games consoles and appliances when they are not being used.
Use appliances wisely
Run washing machines and dishwashers with full loads, and use eco settings where possible.
Control hot water
If your system allows, check timings and avoid heating water when nobody needs it.
Look at Long Term Fixes If You Can
Small changes help, but the biggest long-term protection often comes from improving the efficiency of your home. Better loft insulation, wall insulation, heating controls, draught-proofing and efficient heating systems can all reduce the amount of energy your home needs in the first place.
This is where RES can help. We support households with friendly, practical advice on energy bills, home assessments, grants and funding options. We can help you understand which improvements are worth prioritising, and whether you may be eligible for support through schemes.
If you are concerned about rising bills, speak to a RES advisor about the steps that could make your home more affordable to run.