Advice as energy bills to rise by 1.2% in January
Citizens Advice experts have tips for those struggling
Last updated 5 hours ago
Ofgem has announced a rise in the energy price cap of 1.2% in England Scotland and Wales.
It means the average annual bill will go up by £21 - from £1,717 - to £1,738.
It will come into effect on the 1st of January.
It's the second consecutive winter-time increase to the price cap by regulator Ofgem.
Cornwall Insight had previously predicted a 1% fall to £1,697, but said this was now no longer the case, coming as a blow after prices rose by 10% in October.
Millions of pensioners are also facing a winter with less support, after the new Government decided to scrap winter fuel payments for those who do not receive pension credit or other benefits.
About 10 million pensioners will miss out on the payments of up to £300 this year.
Earlier this week, Cornwall Insight said: "Given the price cap rise in October, many will have been hoping to see a fall in the cap for January.
"Unfortunately, forecasts show that prices will be staying relatively high for the remainder of winter."
Ofgem changes the price cap for households every three months, largely based on the cost of energy on wholesale markets, with the regulator confirming the level for the first quarter of next year on November 22nd.
Pat Coomber-Wood is CEO for Citizens Advice in the Cherwell District and West Northamptonshire, and has this advice for those struggling given prospective increases:
"It's really important to speak to your energy provider first.
"Let them know the difficulties you're experiencing. They can also put you on a social tariff, if you go through an assessment. That may mean your energy costs would be considerably lower."
Pat tells us people already struggling to make ends meet will be hit hard by the energy price cap increase, but says help is available.