Energy bills are expected to rise even more this winter than previously forecast, according to the latest from energy consultancy Cornwall Insight.
Bills are now expected to reach around £3,582 a year for the average household from October, up from £3,359 forecast earlier this month.
From January, the amount is expected to reach £4,266 before continuing to rise in April to £4,427; the previous forecast was £3,729 in April.
In October last year, the limit was £1,277.
The price limit for this October will be announced by the energy regulator Ofgem at the end of this month.
Cornwall Vision said it had increased its forecast due to continued increases in wholesale prices and an expected change in the way the energy price cap is calculated.
Dr Craig Lowrey, lead consultant at Cornwall Insight, described the increase of more than £650 to the January forecast as a “fresh shock”.
“The cost of living crisis was already at the top of the news agenda as more and more people face energy poverty, this will only add to the concerns.”
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He said the change in the way the price cap was calculated was necessary to prevent suppliers from going out of business, but added: “Instead of criticizing the methodology of the cap, it may be time to consider the place of the cap all.
“At the end of the day, if it’s not controlling consumer prices and it’s hurting suppliers’ business models, we have to ask whether it’s fit for purpose, especially in these times of unprecedented energy market conditions.
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“It is essential that the government uses our predictions to drive a review of the support package on offer to consumers.
“If £400 was not enough to affect the impact of our previous forecast, it certainly isn’t enough now.”
He added: “Right now, the current price cap is not working for consumers, suppliers or the economy.”
Justina Miltienyte, head of policy at Uswitch.com, said: “Each week brings more bad news about how high the price cap is likely to rise, and these latest suggestions must prompt the government to act now rather than that it’s too late
“Support for the energy bill must be reviewed urgently.
“The new predictions will leave many people worried about how they will pay their bills this winter and beyond, based on sky-high predictions until next October. Households desperately need to know that sufficient financial support will be provided.
“If you’re behind on paying your bills or your energy account is in arrears, talk to your supplier as soon as possible.
“They should be able to help you find a solution, such as working out a more affordable payment plan. You may also find that you are eligible for additional support, such as hardship funds and other energy assistance programs.” .