The new energy price cap  announced by the energy regulator Ofgem means that energy bills increased 0n 1 April by 6% for a  typical dual fuel household, paying by direct debit. The typical household annual bill will be £1849, an increase of £111.

Gas prices are capped at 7.07p/kwh (currently 6.34p/kwh) and electricity capped at 26.48p/kwh (currently 24.86p/kwh)

Standing charges have increased for the London area. They are: Electricity – 46.20p/day  Gas- 32.96p/day.

Now is a good time to switch to a fixed deal as they are not affected by the energy price cap changes. There are a number of new deals out there which are worth considering but before you  switch it is important  to look at what is likely to happen over the next 12 months as some of the deals have exit fees which you will pay if you want to leave early!

Here are the list of energy suppliers offering deals worth considering:

• EON Next – Next Fixed 14m v2 ,12.4% less than price cap. Pay by Direct Debit (DD), £50 per fuel exit fees
• Outfox the Market – Outfox the Price Cap Apr25 12m Fixed 13.2 % less than price cap. Dual fuel only, Pay by DD, £50 dual fuel exit fees.
• EDF Energy – Simply Fixed Jul26 v2 16m, 12.1 % less than price cap. Dual fuel or Elec only, £25 per fuel exit fees.
• Ovo Energy – Extended Fixed 15m, 11.8% less than price cap.Dual fuel or Elec only, £75 per fuel exit fees.

Things to do if your are  still struggling with your energy bills:

Review your direct debit
Your monthly payments are based on estimated annual usage. If your actual usage is less then ask your supplier to reduce these monthly payments. Also ask for a refund if your account is in credit in May!

Pay what you can
If you are struggling to meet your direct debit or quarterly payments then talk to your supplier and ask for an ‘able to pay plan’ based on what you can afford to pay!

Check to see if you can get further help
You may be entitled to further help such as The Winter Fuel Payment or The Warm Home Discount so check to see if you are claiming all that you can!

Useful websites:

Ofgem – energy advice for households

Moneyhelper – free and impartial help with money, backed by the government

AltristEnergy – energy and money saving advice for households or small businesses

For more help and advice on saving energy and money visit our services page