Middle East Conflict Impact on Energy Costs and Bills

Ofgem News & Press Releases

Published March 13th, 2026

Detected March 13th, 2026

Summary

Ofgem has issued a notice regarding the impact of the Middle East conflict on UK energy costs. The notice clarifies that while global markets are affected, consumers on standard variable tariffs are protected by the energy price cap until the end of June 2026.

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What changed

Ofgem has published a notice to inform consumers about the potential impact of the Middle East conflict on energy costs and bills in Great Britain. The notice clarifies that while global energy markets are interconnected and international events can influence wholesale prices, consumers on standard variable tariffs are protected by the energy price cap until the end of June 2026. Suppliers are prohibited from charging above the cap during this period, even if wholesale prices increase. The regulator is monitoring the developing situation and working with government and industry to protect consumers.

For consumers, the key takeaway is that their unit rates and standing charges are protected until June 2026 if they are on a standard variable tariff. Those on fixed deals will not see price changes for the duration of their contract. Ofgem advises consumers worried about bills to contact their supplier for support, including payment plans. Practical steps such as submitting meter readings, checking tariffs, and reducing energy consumption are also recommended.

What to do next

Consumers on standard variable tariffs should be aware of the price cap protection until June 2026.
Consumers worried about bills should contact their energy supplier for potential support and payment plans.
Consumers can take practical steps like submitting meter readings and reducing energy use to manage costs.

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What the situation in the Middle East means for your energy bills

Publication type: News Publication date:

13 March 2026

Topic: Consumer protection, Energy pricing rules Subtopic: Energy price cap, Standing charges Print this page

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Information on how the situation in the Middle East could affect wholesale energy costs and bills.

We know that the ongoing conflict in the Middle East is concerning. Our thoughts are with everyone affected, and we understand why many households will be worried about what this could mean for energy prices in Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales).

Global energy markets are closely connected, and international events can affect wholesale gas and electricity prices. However, it is important to be clear about what this means for consumers right now. In the short term, households on standard variable tariffs are protected by the energy price cap until the end of June. This means suppliers cannot charge more than the cap allows, even if wholesale prices rise during this period.

The situation is still developing, and it is too early to know how long-lasting any market impacts may be. While the UK’s energy supplies remain secure, sustained disruption to global gas markets could put pressure on prices in future price cap periods. Ofgem continues to closely monitor developments and works with government, industry and system operators to protect consumers.

For now, there are practical steps consumers can take:

If you are on a standard variable tariff, the price cap means your unit rates and standing charges are protected until the end of June.
If you are on a fixed deal, your prices will not change for the length of your contract.
If you are worried about bills, contact your supplier early – they must offer support, including payment plans or help if you are struggling.
Simple actions such as submitting regular meter readings, checking you are on the best tariff for you, and reducing energy use where possible can also help. Our priority remains protecting consumers and ensuring the energy system continues to work for households across Great Britain.

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