Energy bills in Wales to increase by 10% after new price cap
The average household energy bill is to increase by ÂŁ149 from October after Ofgem said it was increasing its price cap as homes approach the winter months
This October, households across England, Wales, and Scotland will see their energy bills increase as Ofgem, the energy regulator, raises the price cap by ÂŁ149.
The cap, which dictates the maximum price suppliers can charge per unit of energy, will increase by 10%, bringing the typical annual bill to ÂŁ1,717, up from ÂŁ1,568.
While this new cap is still ÂŁ117 lower than last October's figure of ÂŁ1,834, it comes as a blow to many, especially as winter approaches.
Rising international energy prices, driven by geopolitical tensions and extreme weather events, are the primary factors behind the hike, according to Ofgem.
Energy Secretary Ed Miliband called the announcement "deeply worrying" for families, attributing the situation to a failed energy policy that has left the UK vulnerable to volatile international gas markets.
Jonathan Brearley, chief executive of Ofgem, said: "We know that this rise in the price cap is going to be extremely difficult for many households.
"Anyone who is struggling to pay their bill should make sure they have access to all the benefits they are entitled to, particularly pension credit, and contact their energy company for further help and support."
He also urged consumers to "shop around" and consider a fixed-rate tariff that could save money.
"We are working with Government, suppliers, charities and consumer groups to do everything we can to support customers, including longer term standing charge reform, and steps to tackle debt and affordability," he added.