The energy price cap will reach £1,928 a year for the average household in January, and there’s no getting around the fact that energy bills are still much higher than just a few years ago.
The current energy price cap, which is set at £1,928, limits the amount that an average UK household can expect to pay for their energy bills in a year. The amount you actually pay depends on your usage and the size of your property, so you could still end up paying more than the price cap. Read more in our article What is the energy price cap?.
To prevent your energy usage being estimated and receiving inaccurate bills, it’s important to supply regular meter readings. Without these, your energy supplier estimates your usage instead, and you may be overcharged as a result. Bear in mind, however, that you do not need to do a meter reading if you have a smart, or pre-payment meter.
You can provide meter readings on your supplier’s website, app or on the phone. However, industry body Energy UK recommends checking your supplier’s website for advice on the best way to provide readings, given the large number of people trying to do so at present. Some suppliers such as EDF and Scottish Power are giving customers longer to submit their readings, but it’s still important to make a note of your readings today.
The simplest way to provide a meter reading is to take a picture of your reading using your phone, and then log into your online energy account to enter the readings. You may also be able to send readings by text message, or using WhatsApp. Alternatively, your provider may have an automated telephone service enabling you to give readings and avoid waiting in a call queue.
Other tips for cutting costs
Energy bills are burning a big hole in people’s pockets. You can find plenty of tips for reducing costs in our articles Energy saving tips: how to reduce your bills and 11 practical tips to keep warm and save energy this winter.
If you’re struggling with costs, and suffering anxiety over soaring bills, it’s always worth talking to your supplier. They often have support schemes available to help the most vulnerable and households on a low income, or you may be able to negotiate a repayment plan. Find out more in our article What can you do if you can’t pay your energy bills? and Is your energy supplier offering grants to pay off energy debts?
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