Comment on predicted rise in UK energy prices

Glasgow, Scotland – August 19, 2024:

A predicted rise in the cost of energy bills in October will come as a shock to households still struggling with debts built up last winter, Scotland’s national advice service has said.

Advice Direct Scotland was responding to the latest forecast from energy consultancy Cornwall Insight, which said the Ofgem price cap would rise significantly from October 1.

The analysis found that the typical household faced paying an extra £146 per year, with average bills rising from £1,568 per year at present to £1,714. Ofgem is due to announce the level of the price cap on Friday.

ADS runs the energyadvice.scot service, which provides free, impartial, and practical advice on energy bills for anyone in Scotland and can be contacted on 0808 196 8660.

Conor Forbes, Policy Director  at Advice Direct Scotland, said: 

“This predicted rise in Ofgem’s energy price cap will come as an unwelcome shock to households preparing for what looks set to be another long and difficult winter.

“The impact of the cost-of-living crisis is still being felt across the country and many people are struggling under the burden of energy debts they built up last winter.

“For customers who want certainty on what they will be paying each month, now could be a good time to compare deals from suppliers and consider signing up to a fixed-rate offer.

“We urge people across Scotland not to struggle alone – our expert advisers can provide free advice on the support available and ensure that households are claiming all the benefits they are entitled to.”

NOTES

Advice Direct Scotland is a charity which runs the national advice service advicedirect.scot. Advice is available to everyone in Scotland, at no cost, regardless of personal circumstance.

Advice related to energy issues is available at www.energyadvice.scot and on freephone 0808 196 8660, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.

The website also includes an online knowledge centre for Scots, with information on:

• Billing and meters

• Complaints and disputes

• Grants and assistance

• Scams and fraud

• Loss of energy supply

• Switching suppliers.