Consumers could face a new round of energy price rises as early as next month, experts are warning.

As the "big six" energy suppliers axe their cheapest deals in the face of soaring wholesale gas prices, domestic fuel prices are expected to rise by 15% this year. This would add £172.50 to the typical household energy bill of £1,150 a year.

Suppliers are blaming earlier than expected price rises on pressure caused by the political crisis in the Middle East and North Africa, the Japenese nuclear catastrophe and surging demand from the booming Chinese and Indian economies.

This year, seven of the best dual-fuel deals have been pulled, including the cheapest internet one - the EDF Online Saver V8 at £876 a year, a saving of £274 from the average energy deal. The cheapest online deal from British Gas is £895.