The Office of Gas and Electricity Markets (Ofgem) has released a statement on what the situation in the Middle East means for UK energy bills. In a fresh alert posted on X today (Friday, March 13), the country’s energy regulator shared information on how the Iran conflict could impact wholesale energy costs and bills.

Describing the circumstances as “concerning”, Ofgem said: “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).”

It adds: “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.”

Ofgem says the situation is still evolving, and it is too early to determine how long-lasting any market impacts may be. While the UK’s energy supplies remain secure, it cautions that sustained disruption to global gas markets could place pressure on prices in future price cap periods, reports the Mirror.

Ofgem also states it will continue to closely monitor developments and work alongside the government, industry and system operators to safeguard consumers. For now, it maintains that 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,” the energy regulator advises. “If you are on a fixed deal, your prices will not change for the length of your contract.”

It added: “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.”

Ofgem concluded: “Our priority remains protecting consumers and ensuring the energy system continues to work for households across Great Britain.”

It also summarised: “In the short term, households on standard variable tariffs are protected by the energy price cap until the end of June.”

It comes as Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer revealed RAF jets have expanded their action to Bahrain. Sir Keir stated people are “really worried” about the impact of the Iran conflict and “want to see us doing all we can to de-escalate”.

Speaking alongside Taoiseach Michael Martin during the UK-Ireland summit at Fota House in Cork, he announced: “Last night, RAF Typhoons extended their action to Bahrain.”

The Prime Minister confirmed that 67,000 British nationals have now been repatriated from the Middle East. Some Brits stranded in Bahrain, where airspace continues to be closed, have undertaken the journey overland to exit the region via Saudi Arabia.

Downing Street said RAF jets have been patrolling the skies over Bahrain for Iranian drones. It is the first British action over Bahrain in the current conflict.

The Prime Minister’s official spokesman said: “Overnight, UK jets flew air defence sorties specifically in defence of Bahrain for the first time. This saw Typhoon jets patrolling the skies for Iranian drones heading towards Bahrain. British Typhoon and F35 jets are now flying in defence of British people, bases and our partners, moving in Qatar, Cyprus, UAE, Jordan and Bahrain.”