Homes across the UK are being urged that today, June 30, is the final chance to take a picture and send meter readings to energy suppliers ahead of the upcoming price cap increase. The Ofgem energy price cap rises on Wednesday, from the start of July, meaning properties on standard variable tariffs will face higher charges per unit of gas and electricity used.
Why Submitting a Meter Reading Matters
Taking the latest gas and electric meter readings before July 1 will allow bill payers to provide their genuine energy usage figures, rather than suppliers relying on estimates. By overlooking this, Ofgem could incorrectly bill you at the new, potentially higher rate for the energy you used in June.
Millions could be in this situation, as estimates suggest more than 33 million accounts in the UK are on a Standard Variable Tariff or default variable tariff, accounting for about 60% of households, according to Ofgem. Providing an accurate reading by photographing your meter ensures that the units you consumed in June are charged at the lower pre-July rate.
Who Needs to Act?
Anyone on a fixed tariff can ignore this step, as their rates are locked in and remain unaffected by the cap adjustments. For properties with a functioning smart meter, this should occur automatically. However, those with conventional meters, faulty smart meters, or accounts that depend on estimated readings may still need to submit a manual reading. The most effective method is to photograph your current readings and then enter them into your energy account, according to the Express.
If a reading falls below your provider's estimate, you can request that they lower your monthly direct debit. Having photos of your meters showing the readings and serial numbers provides concrete evidence should a billing dispute happen.
What is the New Energy Price Cap from July 1?
Ofgem has announced that between July 1 and September 30, 2026, energy bills will rise by 13% for a typical household using both gas and electricity and paying by Direct Debit. For those on a standard variable tariff (default tariff) who settle their electricity bill by Direct Debit, the average costs will be:
- Electricity: 26.11p per kilowatt hour (kWh). The daily standing charge is 57.19p.
- Gas: 7.33p per kilowatt hour (kWh). The daily standing charge is 29.04p.
Ofgem says: "This increase is a result of higher wholesale gas prices, caused by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. However, prices are still very much below the height of the energy crisis in 2022. The government then put a limit on bills of £2,500."
How to Properly Take a Meter Reading
Householders should record readings for both gas and electricity, unless their property runs solely on electricity. For a standard meter, note down the figures from left to right, ignoring any red numbers or digits following a decimal point. For digital meters, press the display button until the reading shows on the screen. For prepayment meters, the method may differ, so residents should check their supplier's instructions.
Should you be unable to safely access your meter, do not place yourself in danger. Contact your supplier for assistance, particularly if the meter is positioned too high, located outside, locked away or otherwise difficult to reach.
