Energy prices are set to skyrocket again - what support has already been announced by the government and could more help be coming?
26.08.2022 - 12:47
/ manchestereveningnews.co.uk
Ofgem announced on Friday (August 26) that the energy price cap will rise to £3,539, resulting in an 80 per cent rise in bill costs.
It means around 24 million households in England, Scotland, and Wales on default energy tariffs will see their bills rise dramatically from October 31. The new energy price cap will remain in place until December 31, where it will be expected to rise once again.
The new price cap is defeating news for many vulnerable and struggling households who are already finding difficulty dealing with the financial hardships of the worsening cost of living crisis. The rising costs come amid record-high global gas prices which have mainly been attributed to the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
Read more: BREAKING: Energy price cap will rise to £3,549 in October, Ofgem announces
Many households across the UK will likely be concerned about whether they will be able to afford the new energy bill costs. Fortunately, there is some help available via government and charity grants.
However, some have warned that the current help available is still not enough for many families. Ofgem chief executive Jonathan Brearley said: "The government support package is delivering help right now, but it's clear the new Prime Minister will need to act further to tackle the impact of the price rises that are coming in October and next year."
Meanwhile, chancellor Nadhim Zahawi acknowledged that the energy price cap will cause "stress and anxiety" for many people, but added that the government was working to develop more options to support households. We have compiled all the ways you can currently receive financial help towards paying for your energy bills.
The government plans to provide every household in the UK with a £400