Clever ways to take the heat off your energy bills

SEPTEMBER starts tomorrow and it won’t be long before the nights are drawing in and we're all fretting about our gas and electricity bills again. We were given another reason to worry last week, when energy regulator Ofgem confirmed that energy bills will tick up again from October 1, when the household energy price cap will rise by £35 to £1,755.

- By Harvey Jones

That’s only a 2% increase but it is still a staggering £713 more than five years ago, in October 2020, when the cap stood at £1,042.

Sarah Pennells, consumer finance specialist at Royal London, said: “Once again, millions of households face higher energy bills just as we head into the colder months, when energy use is at its highest.”

The winter months can be really hard on the elderly and vulnerable, who spend more time at home and need to stay warm to remain healthy.

Millions are already cutting every corner, including on food and other bills, but Pennells said it is still worth seeing if you can squeeze out some extra energy savings. “Estimated bills could mean you end up paying either too much or too little for your energy.

“Installing a smart meter should ensure you have accurate bills and identify areas to cut back.”

Also, double check eligibility for government support. “Many miss out on schemes like the Warm Home Discount or Winter Fuel Payment because they assume they don’t qualify. It takes 10 minutes to check, but it could save more than £100.”

If still struggling, don’t suffer in silence. Contact your provider.

“Energy suppliers should agree a payment plan with you, taking into account what you can afford. Most suppliers have hardship funds or other help, but you have to ask.”