If you’re worried about energy bills and are struggling to pay, it is worth contacting your supplier to see what help could be available to you
Energy bills look set to rise again from July(Image: coldsnowstorm via Getty Images)
Energy bills are forecast to rise again this summer in more misery for UK households.
Analysts at Cornwall Insight currently expect the Ofgem price cap will soar to £1,861 a year for the typical home this July, following a sharp rise in oil prices following the Iran war.
It is currently set at £1,641 a year. The July price cap will be based on wholesale prices between February 18 and May 18, 2026, so predictions will likely change as we get nearer to the end of this timeframe.
If you’re worried about energy bills and are struggling to pay, it is worth contacting your supplier to see what help could be available to you.
For example, the British Gas Energy Trust has reopened its Individual and Families Fund for both pre-payment and credit households. In order to be eligible, you must be in energy debt.
You must owe between £50 and £1,700 in energy debt if you’re a pre-payment customer.
You must also have a household income of less than £20,328, or live with someone who is registered disabled and receives a disability benefit, someone who receives Carers Allowance, or be in a household with three or more children.
You can also apply for this if you are not a British Gas customer and your own supplier does not have a similar scheme, or if they do have one, but you have been declined for help.
OVO runs a hardship scheme called the Extra Support Package, which is worth £56million. The help you may be entitled to includes direct debit reductions, emergency credit top-ups, and extended repayment plans.
You may also qualify for free energy-saving products including electric throws and mattress toppers, or free home improvements including loft insulation or a new boiler.
Octopus funds its £40million Octo Assist scheme, with help including free electric blankets and standing charge holidays.
E.ON Next customers who are struggling can claim support via its E.ON Next Energy Fund.
In order to qualify, you pass the three-month Provisional Award Scheme. While you’re in the scheme, any debt will be suspended – then at the end, as long as all payments have been made, the debt will be cleared.
If you don’t keep up with the payments, the award will be withdrawn and the debt, together with any further debt which has accrued over the three months will remain.
You may also qualify for help with fixing broken appliances such as your cooker, fridge, fridge-freezer or washing machine.
