Millions of Households in Great Britain Face Higher Energy Bills
As energy prices rise, millions in Great Britain brace for increased bills amid freezing temperatures and snow warnings this winter
Great Britain, Energy Bills, Price Cap, Fuel Poverty, Winter
The average bill will jump to £1,738 a year, which is a 1.2% increase. This change comes from the energy regulator raising the cap on gas and electricity charges. With winter temperatures dropping, this rise is going to put a strain on many families already struggling with their finances.
As we head into the new year, the weather isn’t looking great either. There are warnings for heavy rain, wind, and even snow across the country. Many areas are expected to see temperatures dip below zero, which is worrying for the over eight million people living in cold, damp homes.
Experts predict that bills could rise again in April, reaching an average of £1,785 a year. That’s nearly £600 more than before the Ukraine crisis began. If you use more energy than average, your bills could be even higher. The cap only limits the price per unit, not the total bill, so those on variable tariffs will feel the pinch right away.
Simon Francis from the End Fuel Poverty Coalition pointed out that many people are living in homes that are hard to heat. He mentioned that a lot of money is wasted on heating because the UK has some of the worst insulation in Europe.
Craig Lowrey from Cornwall Insight noted that the energy markets are facing a lot of uncertainty, which is driving these price increases. He mentioned that the situation in Ukraine and the Middle East is adding to the volatility.
Caroline Simpson from Warm This Winter emphasized the need for long-term solutions, like better insulation, to help reduce bills. She highlighted that many people are struggling with fuel poverty and the health issues that come with it.
Miatta Fahnbulleh, the energy consumers minister, said that as long as the UK relies on global fossil fuel markets, price rises will continue. She believes that moving towards clean energy is the way to protect consumers and lower bills in the long run.
To help this winter, the government’s warm-home discount is set to support three million eligible households. They’re also encouraging energy suppliers to provide over £500 million in assistance to customers during this tough time.