Sutherland residents warned that energy bills will stay high – 'seek support' say pundits!
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
As the new price cap comes into effect this weekend, Sutherland households have been urged to seek support after the boss of British Gas owner warned energy bills are likely to stay high for the foreseeable future.
Centrica chief executive Chris O’Shea said while prices are starting to drop they will remain significantly above the longer-term average.
Advice Direct Scotland (ADS), the national energy advice service for Scotland, is encouraging individuals to check grant and benefit entitlements.
Hazel Knowles, energy project team lead for ADS, said: “Even with the warmer weather and energy prices starting to move in the right direction, we know many people are struggling.
“Bills will still be almost double the amount they were before the energy crisis began, which will be unaffordable for many households. The important thing to remember is no one should struggle alone, and help is available."
Regulator Ofgem’s new price cap comes into effect this weekend which will see households with typical energy usage pay £2074.
However, it recently warned that it is unlikely for prices to return to the levels seen before the energy crisis.
Consultancy firm Cornwall Insight has also predicted that households can expect their energy bills to remain stubbornly high throughout the coming winter.
ADS, runs the energyadvice.scot service providing free, impartial and practical advice on energy bills for anyone in Scotland.
energyadvice.scot is available at www.energyadvice.scot and on freephone 0808 196 8660, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.
Households self-rationing energy due to the cost-of-living crisis can seek support from homeheatingadvice.scot.
Ms Knowles added: “We would urge anyone struggling with energy costs to reach out to their supplier who may have a hardship fund that could help. Our energyadvice.scot service also provides free, practical advice on the support and assistance available, such as grants, and ensures that people can access all entitled benefits.
“Anyone experiencing difficulties should visit www.energyadvice.scot or call 0808 196 8660 for assistance.”
