Rising energy costs: what you can do

If you’re worried about rising energy costs, you’re not alone. In this guide, we’ve put together some handy tips to help keep your energy bills low. You can also find out about support you might be able to get and what you can do to avoid scams.​
 

Struggling to pay your energy bill?​

If you’re struggling to pay for energy, speak to your energy supplier straight away to ask about payment plans and hardship support. The energy regulator Ofgem requires suppliers to work with you to agree on a payment plan you can afford. You can also ask your supplier about being added to the Priority Services Register if you are of pensionable age, living with a disability or health condition or in a vulnerable situation. You’ll get priority support in emergencies, advanced notice of power cuts and more.​

Grants and financial help​

It’s common for energy providers to offer grants if you are falling into debt with them.​

  • The British Gas Energy Trust offer support to anyone, no matter your energy provider.
  • StepChange have put together a list of energy providers that offer grants, and what to do if your supplier isn’t listed.​
  • Check what government support there is to help you pay your energy bills.​

Tip 1 – Everyday changes to cut your energy bills

  • Make small changes like​
    • Turning appliances off standby​
    • Washing clothes at lower temperatures​

    • Only heating the rooms you use​

      Have a look at these tips from The Energy Saving Trust. While the changes on their own might seem small, the savings can add up to put more money back in your pocket.
       

  • Switch energy deals easily with Youtility. You can compare and switch energy deals using My Home Manager in our app.
     
  • Make use of your smart meter. If you have a smart meter for your gas and electricity, using an in-home display will show you when you’re using energy. It will help you to identify where you can reduce your usage. Everyone is entitled to a smart meter. If you feel like you’d benefit from one, visit Smart Energy GB to find out how to request your upgrade.

Tip 2 – How to make your home more energy efficient

  • Block out the draughts. Professional draught-proofing can be expensive compared to the savings. Why not do some DIY draught-proofing by putting weatherstrip seal tape around your door and window frames. You can also add secondary glazing film to windows to reduce heat loss.​
  • Turn down the temperature. If you have a combi boiler, the temperature is adjustable. If you’re heating hot water just to cool it back down, you could be spending where you don’t need to.​
  • Insulate where possible. Putting a British standard jacket around your hot water tank and insulating your pipes can keep water hotter for longer.​

Tip 3 – Get help and support​

Tip 4 – Protect yourself from scams​

  • Make sure you’re on the lookout for suspicious emails, calls and text messages. Fraudsters might pretend to be from energy providers, Ofgem or the government.​
  • Have a look at these tips on spotting fraud and scams. You can also see how to protect yourself with Report Fraud.​
  • Check out Take Five for ways to recognise and prevent fraud or scams, as well as the latest fraud updates.​

Budget Planning

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Ways to cut your spending

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