Regulator Ofgem has confirmed that the average UK household energy bill will rise by £149 in October.

The 10% increase comes after the regulator announced it is hiking its price cap from the current £1,568 for a typical household in England, Scotland and Wales to £1,717, adding around £12 a month to an average bill.

However, it is around £117 cheaper than the cap in October last year, which was set at £1,834.

Average UK household bill to rise this winter

Discussing the Ofgem price rise, Ofgem said rising prices in the international energy market, due to heightened political tensions and extreme weather events, was the main driver behind the decision.

Jonathan Brearley, the 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 opting for a fixed-rate tariff that could save people money.

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said Ofgem’s announcement that its energy price cap will increase by 10% was “worrying” for many people.

Mr Miliband said: “This will be deeply worrying news for many families.

"The rise in the price cap is a direct result of the failed energy policy we inherited, which has left our country at the mercy of international gas markets controlled by dictators.

RECOMMENDED READING

Can I refuse to pay my energy bills? What happens if you don't pay

“The only solution to get bills down and greater energy independence is the Government’s mission for clean, homegrown power.

"That’s why we have hit the ground running, lifting the onshore wind ban, consenting unprecedented amounts of solar power and setting the largest-ever budget for our renewables auction.

“We will also do everything in our power to protect billpayers, including by reforming the regulator to make it a strong consumer champion, working to make standing charges fairer, and a proper Warm Homes Plan to save families money.”