Residents encouraged to be energy smart as higher domestic fuel bills come in from April

Article date: 17 March 2022

Energy regulator Ofgem announced in February that the UK energy price cap will rise from 1 April. The average energy bill will rise by £693 (54 %) to £1,971 per year, which is likely to mean substantial increases in domestic fuel bills. This follows large increases in wholesale energy costs during recent months.

In order to prepare for the expected sharp increases in bills, residents in the borough are being advised to adopt more energy saving tips in order to help lessen the impact of the expected rises.

Residents are also being urged to make sure they take a meter reading on 31st March, and if possible, take a picture of your readings. You should then submit the meter readings to your supplier to ensure you get billed for your actual use at the lower rate.

In addition householders in the borough may be eligible for the Government's recently announced through their council tax bills. Each home within Bands A to D in the scheme will be entitled to a single £150 payment.

Councillor Jeanie Bell, Cabinet Member for Safer, Stronger Communities, said: "The changes to the Ofgem price cap from 1 April are going to mean much higher energy bills for many households in the borough so it is important to take action now to help lessen the impact if you are able to.

"It's heart breaking that we are in this position where we are having to give advice to people who are worried and scared about how they are going to heat their homes amidst a rise in cost of living and rising fuel costs. The £150 payment is a small sum from Government but it doesn't mitigate the struggle that people are now going to face.

"We will do everything we can to support residents in St Helens including offering advice and ideas on how to save money on your energy bills.

"Taking accurate meter readings of your actual gas and electricity usage before the changes is one important way you can do this. It will ensure you pay for your actual use at the lower rate after the new charges take effect in April."

Councillor Bell added: "You can use some of the energy saving tips we have highlighted online as these could also help to reduce the cost of your bills. They are small steps but all of them can make a significant difference over time."

If you are struggling with your energy bills or are looking for assistance with making your home more energy efficient, help and advice is available. For more information, please visit www.sthelens.gov.uk/saveenergy or contact our Affordable Warmth team on 01744 676555.