Households are being urged to submit meter readings before the new Ofgem price cap starts this week to avoid being overcharged for usage.
Close Up Of Smart Energy Meter In Kitchen Measuring Electricity And Gas Use With Woman Looking At Bills(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Scottish households are being warned to submit a meter reading before midnight on March 31 to avoid being overcharged when the new energy price cap comes into force later this week. Advice Direct Scotland said failing to provide an accurate reading could mean suppliers estimate usage and apply the old, higher rates to energy used after April 1.
Energy regulator Ofgem is lowering the price cap from £1,758 to £1,641 from April, a drop of around 7 per cent. But households risk missing out on the lower rate if they do not provide an up-to-date meter reading in time.
Advice Direct Scotland, which runs energyadvice.scot, is urging people to act now or as close to the deadline as possible.
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Those with smart meters are also being told to check their device is working correctly, while taking a dated photo of a manual reading could help resolve any disputes.
Craig Tobin, head of business development and impact at Advice Direct Scotland, said: “Lower gas and electricity prices in April will come as a relief for struggling households, but unfortunately this is only likely to be a temporary reprieve.
“Current forecasts suggest the Ofgem price cap will increase significantly in July, potentially by more than £300 per year, piling even more pressure on people’s budgets.
“Whatever happens, it’s important to submit meter readings before the new price cap comes into force on April 1, so you are not overcharged.
“For extra peace of mind, take a dated photo of your meter, and if you have a smart meter, make sure that it’s working as it should.”
Households are also being encouraged to check if cheaper tariffs are available, although many of the best deals are typically reserved for customers with smart meters or those able to switch providers easily.
Despite the April drop, energy bills remain significantly higher with households still paying more than £500 a year above 2021 levels.
Advice Direct Scotland said many people are continuing to struggle with energy debt and urged anyone worried about their bills to seek help.
Tobin added: “People can also take practical action by examining their bills, finding out how much they are paying, and checking if there are cheaper options available with other suppliers.
“Struggling customers should know they do not have to suffer in silence. Our expert team is on hand for anyone who needs help.”
The next energy price cap announcement is due in May, with forecasts suggesting bills could rise again in July due to ongoing pressure on global energy markets.
