CUSTOMERS of major energy firms can now claim £135 of savings with just one very simple change.
Anyone who has previously signed up with British Gas, EON, EDF, OVO or Octopus Energy are being warned to act quickly before prices rise.
Just in time for winter, energy regulator Ofgem has revealed that prices are expected to rise 10% from October 1.
This means that household bills will not just rise in line with the extra power needed to heat homes during the coldest part of the year as they have already been set on going up.
Average household bills are predicted to see an increase of £149 from £1568 to £1717.
Those thinking they do not need to change their supplier may want to think again.
Around 29 million customers will see their bills change from the start of the year.
Customers should remember that those who use less energy will pay less and those who you use more will pay more.
This means that you could pay anything either side of the £1717 figure from October depending on your personal usage.
The actual rates you are charged will depend on the area you live in, how you pay your bill and the type of meter you use.
For instance, anyone paying their bills using cash or cheque every three months will likely pay more, with a typical bill expected to cost £1669.
Those opting for prepayment metres will face slightly less of an increase than direct debit alternatives, with a typical bill of £1829.
The next energy price cap date is expected to be announced at the end of November as Ofgem review the levels every three months.
Source: Ofgem
Those unsure how to scope the various options should consider Outfox The Market which currently has the best deal on offer.
With a Fix’d Dual Aug 24 v4.0 users could save £135 per year against the expected cap to come into force from October.
This can be claimed by new and existing customers.
Whilst Ovo Energy’s tariff comes a close second, costing a typical household around £1625 annually.
This deal comes with a £50 exit fee per fuel or double that if you lock in with a dual fuel tariff.
Despite energy prices having fallen twice this year – in April and July – it looks like household owners and renters need to be aware of the increase coming their way.
Ofgem have blamed the new cap prices on extreme weather and geopolitical tensions which have driven up the sale price of electricity.
THERE'S a number of different ways to get help paying your energy bills if you're struggling to get by.
If you fall into debt, you can always approach your supplier to see if they can put you on a repayment plan before putting you on a prepayment meter.
This involves paying off what you owe in instalments over a set period.
If your supplier offers you a repayment plan you don’t think you can afford, speak to them again to see if you can negotiate a better deal.
Several energy firms have grant schemes available to customers struggling to cover their bills.
But eligibility criteria varies depending on the supplier and the amount you can get depends on your financial circumstances.
For example, British Gas or Scottish Gas customers struggling to pay their energy bills can get grants worth up to £2,000.
British Gas also offers help via its British Gas Energy Trust and Individuals Family Fund.
You don’t need to be a British Gas customer to apply for the second fund.
EDF, E.ON, Octopus Energy and Scottish Power all offer grants to struggling customers too.
Thousands of vulnerable households are missing out on extra help and protections by not signing up to the Priority Services Register (PSR).
The service helps support vulnerable households, such as those who are elderly or ill, and some of the perks include being given advance warning of blackouts, free gas safety checks and extra support if you’re struggling.
Get in touch with your energy firm to see if you can apply.
