Citizens Advice Flintshire urges residents to seek energy advice after price cap increase

Citizens Advice Flintshire is urging local residents to contact its Energy Team for help after the energy price cap rose by 10% on 1 October, pushing average energy bills to £1,717 per year.

This increase, driven by rising wholesale gas prices, leaves many households facing even higher costs as winter approaches.

The energy price cap, set by Ofgem, is designed to limit the amount suppliers can charge per kilowatt hour (kWh) of electricity and gas.

However, it does not cap total energy bills, which still depend on usage.

Under the new cap, electricity prices have risen from 22.36p to 24.50p per kWh, with a daily standing charge of 60.99p.

Gas prices have increased from 5.48p to 6.24p per kWh, with a standing charge of 31.66p.

For most households, this results in an average increase of £12 per month.

Support for Vulnerable Households

Pensioners, who are particularly vulnerable during the colder months, are a key focus for Citizens Advice Flintshire.

Changes to the Winter Fuel Payment scheme have left millions without crucial financial support.

The organisation is urging pensioners to check their eligibility for Pension Credit, which not only qualifies them for the Winter Fuel Payment but can also lead to Council Tax reductions and other financial aid.

With around 880,000 UK households missing out on the Winter Fuel Payment, Citizens Advice is highlighting the importance of accessing Pension Credit, which could also unlock other benefits.

Why the Price Cap Has Risen

The primary driver behind this price increase is the sharp rise in wholesale gas prices, which has surged by £123 since the last price cap period, making up the bulk of the £149 increase in the overall cap.

Additional factors include rising network and supplier business costs, which have also contributed to the hike, although the wholesale price of gas remains the largest factor.

Ofgem reviews the price cap every three months, and the next adjustment, expected in January 2025, may bring further changes, depending on market conditions. Households are urged to prepare and seek financial advice where needed.

Citizens Advice Flintshire’s Call for Assistance

Citizens Advice Flintshire is available to assist residents with managing these rising costs.

Their Energy Team can provide advice on reducing energy bills, accessing Pension Credit, and other financial support that may be available.

The service can be reached via Freephone at 0808 278 7923, with further information available online and through face-to-face drop-in sessions at Mold and Deeside.