Scots urged to act now on bills after Ofgem announces price cap to drop by 12.3 per cent in April

Scots are being urged to check their gas and electric bills after Ofgem announced on Friday that its price cap will drop by 12.3% in April.

The fall will mean a typical household will pay £1,690 a year – reducing the annual bill by around £238 from the current £1,928.

Ofgem said the fall in the price cap would see energy charges reach the lowest level since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022

However, it is still £552 more than what households were charged before the energy crisis hit in the autumn of 2021.

Advice Direct Scotland said while the fall was welcome, record levels of debt would continue pushing bills up.

The charity also highlighted differences in regional standing charges, putting Scottish consumers at a disadvantage.

Despite the overall cap decrease, increases in standing charges mean that residents in southern Scotland will now pay 63.31 pence per day, compared to their counterparts in London paying 40.79 pence, Advice Direct Scotland said.

A larger proportion of Scots also lack access to the gas grid, relying on the more expensive electric rate for heating and cooking.

In southern Scotland, the gas unit rate will decrease to 5.96 pence per kilowatt-hour (kWh), while electricity will be priced at 23.97 pence per kilowatt-hour (kWh).

Advice Direct Scotland is urging households to review how much they are paying and whether there are better tariffs available.

It is also encouraging Scots to check the accuracy of their bills in case they are facing higher charges than they should be based on estimated usage.

Those with smart meters are being urged to make sure the device is working, while those with traditional meters should submit gas and electricity readings to avoid overcharging.

Hazel Knowles, energy lead for Advice Direct Scotland, said: “Even with gas and electricity prices moving in the right direction, bills remain significantly higher than they were before the energy crisis began.

“The ongoing cost of living crisis, combined with record levels of energy-related debts, will continue pushing bills up, straining household budgets.

“That’s why it is vital that people look at what they are paying and keep a close eye on the energy market.

“It’s a good time to assess your current payments and check if there are any better options available.

“Taking regular meter readings and checking the level of your direct debit are as important as ever. If you have a smart meter, ensure its working.

“The important thing to remember is that nobody should struggle alone, and help is available.

“Our energyadvice.scot service 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.”