People urged to submit meter reading before energy bills rise

Households are being urged to submit a meter reading to their energy firm to avoid paying more than they need to when prices rise on October 1.

Energy prices will rise by around 25% for gas and electric from Saturday, with the average household in the UK expected to pay around £2,500 a year.

Prime Minister Liz Truss announced an Energy Price Guarantee in order to keep costs as low as possible.

The energy price cap had been due to rise to £3,549 a year from October 1 before the guarantee was set out.

According to the UK Government, the guarantee will save the average household “at least” £1,000 a year.

Despite the guarantee, the average bill will still rise by 27% on the previous price cap of £1,971, which is regulated by Ofgem.

Frazer Scott, chief executive of Energy Action Scotland, warned of the impact in rising costs and urged people to submit their meter readings.

“This week, every household across the UK must make sure it submits a meter reading to their energy firm to avoid paying a penny more than they absolutely have to when prices go up on October 1,” he said.

“Fuel poverty is at record levels, levels of energy efficiency improvements are simply too low to provide respite and financial support is just a sticking plaster on the deepest of wounds.

“As unit costs for electricity and gas push bills higher still in October, communities will suffer and take years to recover.

“Meanwhile the impact of fuel poverty will be felt on the NHS and social care system and lives will be needlessly lost.”

Ben Gallizzi, energy spokesman at Uswitch.com, underlined the importance of keeping on top of home energy consumption.

“Energy bills are still due to rise in October despite the Government support and we know that many people are feeling anxious about the winter ahead,” he said.

“Keeping on top of your home energy consumption will be especially important during the coldest months when the heating comes on.”