All about Lanarkshire Energy bills still high despite lower cap
Costs unlikely to revert to normal by end of decade
Lanarkshire households will still face high energy bills this winter despite Ofgem lowering the energy price cap.
The energy regulator has announced that average bills will fall by £151 from October 1, meaning a typical household will pay £1923 per year.
However, despite the cap falling to its lowest rate since March 2022, it still remains 50 per cent higher than two years ago.
The average household energy bill will continue to be hundreds of pounds higher compared to the winter of 2021, when it stood at £1277.
Consultancy firm Cornwall Insight has predicted that bills are unlikely to revert to normal levels by the end of the decade.
Advice Direct Scotland, the country’s national advice service, runs energyadvice. scot which provides free, impartial and practical advice on energy bills for anyone in Scotland.
The charity said vulnerable people, including those who must power medical equipment at home, will still struggle with their energy bills this winter due to the ongoing cost of living crisis and because they are continuing to pay significantly more than two years ago.
It also pointed out that government help provided last year through the Energy
Bill Support Scheme has come to an end.
Conor Forbes, director of policy with Advice Direct Scotland, said: “Even with energy prices moving in the right direction, customers are facing a challenging winter.
“Bills remain significantly higher than they were before the energy crisis began, which will be unaffordable for many households.
“Given the impact of the cost of living crisis on household budgets, we understand that many Scots are grappling with difficult decisions about spending, even on essential items.
“The important thing to remember is no one should struggle alone, and help is available.
“We would urge anyone struggling with energy costs to reach out to their supplier who may have a hardship fund that could help.
“Our service also provides free, practical advice on the support and assistance available, such as grants, and ensures that people can access all entitled benefits.
“Anyone experiencing difficulties should visit www. energyadvice.scot or call 0808 196 8660 for assistance.”
Advisers, who can also provide information on sources of support, are available on freephone 0808 196 8660, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm, and further details can be found at the website.
The important thing to remember is no one should struggle alone, and help is available Conor Forbes