Hit with energy bill hikes? Here’s what you can do

2 mins read

Friday 6 August 2021

Tags: universal credit, counting the costs, energy bills, water and fuell bils

Around 15 million families are expected to see their energy bills rise by up to £139 a year after Ofgem hiked its price cap by 12%.

People on prepayment meters will be hit harder still, facing an up to £153 bill increase when the price cap rises this October.

The hike comes as a result of huge rises in the wholesale prices of energy.

Una Summerson, Head of Policy & Public Affairs at Contact, says:

“Our Counting the Costs research has highlighted that families with disabled children are among those hit hardest by hikes in energy costs.

“Having a disabled child can require heating on for longer and more washes of clothes and equipment. This is why we want to see the Warm Home Discount Scheme in England offered to all families with disabled children.

“Not only does this come in the midst of a pandemic that has disproportionately affected families with disabled children, but this September, many families will lose out when the government’s weekly £20 uplift in Universal Credit payments come to an end. We urge the government to rethink this decision.”

Our advice on reducing energy costs

We have advice on our website on help with fuel and water bills and energy saving tips, including switching providers.

The price cap applies to default deals, meaning some customers may be able to shop around for a variable tariff at a cheaper rate.

You can also get in touch with our helpline or use our Listening Ear service if you’d like to talk to someone about today’s announcement.