The Office of Gas and Electricity Markets (Ofgem) has announced a 13% increase in the energy price cap effective July 1, primarily due to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East affecting global energy prices. This translates to an average increase of £18 per month for households using both gas and electricity, with gas bills rising by 24% and electricity by 5%. Ofgem's chief executive, Tim Jarvis, noted the volatility in global energy markets as a significant factor. Energy Secretary Ed Miliband expressed concern over the impact on households already facing financial pressures and highlighted the importance of de-escalating the conflict to stabilize oil and gas prices. He called for a push towards clean, homegrown energy solutions to prevent future price spikes. Meanwhile, Citizens Advice director Gillian Cooper criticized delays in the energy debt relief scheme, urging the government to implement it swiftly to support families in need. Currently, 40% of energy accounts are on fixed tariffs and will not be affected by this price rise.