Latest news with #AdviceDirectScotland
Rhyl Journal
10 hours ago
- Business
- Rhyl Journal
Check your meter before Energy Price Cap changes on Monday
Consumers should submit readings before midnight on June 30 to avoid being overcharged, and to ensure that smart meters are working properly. Accurate readings prevent suppliers from estimating usage and applying previously higher prices to energy used after June 30, as Ofgem resets the cap on what suppliers can charge every three months. The latest change from £1,849 to a lower rate of £1,720 on July 1 represents a 7% drop, with average annual bills falling by around £122. Bad news! Ofgem's energy Price Cap that dictates the rate 2/3 homes in Eng, Scot & Wales pay, is now predicted to rise even more than before. I've knocked up this table showing today's new average predictions (from 3 big firms) for the Cap for someone on supposed 'typical use';… However, this is still £582 more than households were paying before the energy crisis began in autumn 2021. Advice Direct Scotland, a charity which runs the national energy advice service is among charities calling for a 'longer-term solution to the scourge of fuel poverty' with a UK-wide social energy tariff, to support low-income households which would automatically place the most vulnerable people on cheaper deals. It said that anyone unable to submit readings by June 30 should do so as close to the date as possible and advised taking a photo of the meter in case of disputes, and suggested checking for more favourable tariffs. The next price cap update will be announced by Ofgem in August, and many people are still struggling with record levels of debt. More on energy bills Conor Forbes, policy director at Advice Direct Scotland, says: 'Lower gas and electricity prices will come as a relief for households, but bills remain significantly higher than they were before the energy crisis began. 'It's important to submit meter readings before the new price cap comes into force, to prevent being overcharged. 'For extra peace of mind, take a dated photo of the meter. If you have a smart meter, make sure it's working. '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, no matter their circumstances. 'However, a longer-term solution to the scourge of fuel poverty is a UK-wide social energy tariff, which would automatically put vulnerable people on the cheapest deals.' Household energy debt has reached alarming levels, underscoring just how much pressure both consumers and suppliers are under. Overall arrears remain alarmingly high, with 75% of the total debt having no repayment plan in place. The average debt per customer is £1,200, exacerbating an already pressurised market and making it increasingly difficult for both customers and suppliers to manage rising costs. 'Today's figures from Ofgem show that household energy debt has continued to rise, with an increase of £300m in Q1 of 2025, having now grown for ten consecutive quarters," says Matt Turner-Tait, Senior Manager at specialist Energy & Utilities consultancy, BFY Group. "There have been some well-intended attempts by the government and regulatory bodies to relieve the issue – such as the Warm Home Discount becoming accessible to double the number of households previously, or Ofgem's prepayment meter review prompting suppliers to return £18.6m to customers through compensation and debt write offs. "However, these measures don't provide the much-needed long term relief that customers need. "Since the covid crisis, the UK retains the most expensive electricity bills out of 25 other European countries – which highlights the need for urgent, sustainable action at policy level. Suppliers can provide some relief to customers through early engagement, accessible advice, and smarter tools for managing bills - this will help customers retain some financial stability.'
Yahoo
10 hours ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Why you must take a meter reading on Monday - or risk being overcharged
Households are being urged to submit meter readings before the newly lowered Ofgem price cap comes into force on July 1 2025. Consumers should submit readings before midnight on June 30 to avoid being overcharged, and to ensure that smart meters are working properly. Accurate readings prevent suppliers from estimating usage and applying previously higher prices to energy used after June 30, as Ofgem resets the cap on what suppliers can charge every three months. The latest change from £1,849 to a lower rate of £1,720 on July 1 represents a 7% drop, with average annual bills falling by around £122. Bad news! Ofgem's energy Price Cap that dictates the rate 2/3 homes in Eng, Scot & Wales pay, is now predicted to rise even more than before. I've knocked up this table showing today's new average predictions (from 3 big firms) for the Cap for someone on supposed 'typical use';… — Martin Lewis (@MartinSLewis) June 24, 2025 However, this is still £582 more than households were paying before the energy crisis began in autumn 2021. Advice Direct Scotland, a charity which runs the national energy advice service is among charities calling for a 'longer-term solution to the scourge of fuel poverty' with a UK-wide social energy tariff, to support low-income households which would automatically place the most vulnerable people on cheaper deals. It said that anyone unable to submit readings by June 30 should do so as close to the date as possible and advised taking a photo of the meter in case of disputes, and suggested checking for more favourable tariffs. The next price cap update will be announced by Ofgem in August, and many people are still struggling with record levels of debt. More on energy bills Martin Lewis' key Energy Price Cap changes advice Energy Price Cap warning for bill payers this summer The energy 'back billing' rules Martin Lewis wants you to share Conor Forbes, policy director at Advice Direct Scotland, says: 'Lower gas and electricity prices will come as a relief for households, but bills remain significantly higher than they were before the energy crisis began. 'It's important to submit meter readings before the new price cap comes into force, to prevent being overcharged. 'For extra peace of mind, take a dated photo of the meter. If you have a smart meter, make sure it's working. '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, no matter their circumstances. 'However, a longer-term solution to the scourge of fuel poverty is a UK-wide social energy tariff, which would automatically put vulnerable people on the cheapest deals.' Household energy debt has reached alarming levels, underscoring just how much pressure both consumers and suppliers are under. Overall arrears remain alarmingly high, with 75% of the total debt having no repayment plan in place. The average debt per customer is £1,200, exacerbating an already pressurised market and making it increasingly difficult for both customers and suppliers to manage rising costs. 'Today's figures from Ofgem show that household energy debt has continued to rise, with an increase of £300m in Q1 of 2025, having now grown for ten consecutive quarters," says Matt Turner-Tait, Senior Manager at specialist Energy & Utilities consultancy, BFY Group. "There have been some well-intended attempts by the government and regulatory bodies to relieve the issue – such as the Warm Home Discount becoming accessible to double the number of households previously, or Ofgem's prepayment meter review prompting suppliers to return £18.6m to customers through compensation and debt write offs. "However, these measures don't provide the much-needed long term relief that customers need. "Since the covid crisis, the UK retains the most expensive electricity bills out of 25 other European countries – which highlights the need for urgent, sustainable action at policy level. Suppliers can provide some relief to customers through early engagement, accessible advice, and smarter tools for managing bills - this will help customers retain some financial stability.'
The Herald Scotland
11 hours ago
- Business
- The Herald Scotland
Check your meter before Energy Price Cap changes on Monday
Accurate readings prevent suppliers from estimating usage and applying previously higher prices to energy used after June 30, as Ofgem resets the cap on what suppliers can charge every three months. The latest change from £1,849 to a lower rate of £1,720 on July 1 represents a 7% drop, with average annual bills falling by around £122. Bad news! Ofgem's energy Price Cap that dictates the rate 2/3 homes in Eng, Scot & Wales pay, is now predicted to rise even more than before. I've knocked up this table showing today's new average predictions (from 3 big firms) for the Cap for someone on supposed 'typical use';… — Martin Lewis (@MartinSLewis) June 24, 2025 However, this is still £582 more than households were paying before the energy crisis began in autumn 2021. Advice Direct Scotland, a charity which runs the national energy advice service is among charities calling for a 'longer-term solution to the scourge of fuel poverty' with a UK-wide social energy tariff, to support low-income households which would automatically place the most vulnerable people on cheaper deals. It said that anyone unable to submit readings by June 30 should do so as close to the date as possible and advised taking a photo of the meter in case of disputes, and suggested checking for more favourable tariffs. The next price cap update will be announced by Ofgem in August, and many people are still struggling with record levels of debt. More on energy bills Conor Forbes, policy director at Advice Direct Scotland, says: 'Lower gas and electricity prices will come as a relief for households, but bills remain significantly higher than they were before the energy crisis began. 'It's important to submit meter readings before the new price cap comes into force, to prevent being overcharged. 'For extra peace of mind, take a dated photo of the meter. If you have a smart meter, make sure it's working. '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, no matter their circumstances. 'However, a longer-term solution to the scourge of fuel poverty is a UK-wide social energy tariff, which would automatically put vulnerable people on the cheapest deals.' Ofgem latest debt figures signal that the UK's energy affordability crisis is nearing breaking point Household energy debt has reached alarming levels, underscoring just how much pressure both consumers and suppliers are under. Overall arrears remain alarmingly high, with 75% of the total debt having no repayment plan in place. The average debt per customer is £1,200, exacerbating an already pressurised market and making it increasingly difficult for both customers and suppliers to manage rising costs. 'Today's figures from Ofgem show that household energy debt has continued to rise, with an increase of £300m in Q1 of 2025, having now grown for ten consecutive quarters," says Matt Turner-Tait, Senior Manager at specialist Energy & Utilities consultancy, BFY Group. "There have been some well-intended attempts by the government and regulatory bodies to relieve the issue – such as the Warm Home Discount becoming accessible to double the number of households previously, or Ofgem's prepayment meter review prompting suppliers to return £18.6m to customers through compensation and debt write offs. "However, these measures don't provide the much-needed long term relief that customers need. "Since the covid crisis, the UK retains the most expensive electricity bills out of 25 other European countries – which highlights the need for urgent, sustainable action at policy level. Suppliers can provide some relief to customers through early engagement, accessible advice, and smarter tools for managing bills - this will help customers retain some financial stability.'
Scottish Sun
17 hours ago
- Business
- Scottish Sun
Exact date millions of energy customers MUST submit meter readings
Find out what you need to do before the deadline SAY WATT? Exact date millions of energy customers MUST submit meter readings – or risk overpaying MILLIONS of energy customers have been warned that they must submit their meter readings by a specific date as an important deadline looms. If they don't, then they risk being overcharged for their energy usage this month. Advertisement 3 Energy customers have been urged to submit their meter readings by a specific date Credit: Alamy 3 It comes as a new price cap kicks in on July 1 Credit: Getty 3 Anyone who doesn't risks being overcharged Credit: Getty The urgent warning comes as the new Ofgem price cap is set to come into force in a few days. Energy bills are set to decrease from July 1 as the price cap, set by the national energy regulator, decreases by seven per cent. And Advice Direct Scotland is reminding households to act quickly so they don't get caught out. Scots are being urged to submit their meter readings before midnight on June 30. Advertisement Accurate readings will prevent suppliers from estimating usage and applying new prices to energy consumed before the new date. So, submitting them before the price cap comes into force on July 1 can mean homeowners can avoid being overcharged. It's important to submit meter readings before the new price cap comes into force, to prevent being overcharged Conor Forbes Anyone who has a smart meter installed is also being reminded to check that their device is working properly before the deadline. Ofgem resets its cap on the amount suppliers can charge every three months. Advertisement And the latest change represents a seven per cent drop on the current level from £1,849 to £1,720. This will see annual energy bills decrease by around £122 for households on average. The bizarre reason my smart meter won't work & I miss out on cheaper bills Despite the drop, this is still £582 more than what customers were previously paying before the energy crisis began in autumn 2021. Over the last four years, energy prices have been particularly turbulent. Advertisement And many have been left out of pocket by huge changes that occurred over a short space of time. So, experts at Advice Direct Scotland are sharing their latest advice to help people not get caught out. Anyone who can't submit readings by June 30 for whatever reason should do so as close to the date as possible. Struggling customers should know they do not have to suffer in silence. Our expert team is on hand for anyone who needs help Conor Forbes And they suggested that customers take a photo of the meter showing the readings before submitting them. Advertisement This can help resolve any disputes with their energy firm if they arise. Another thing customers can do to decrease costs is check if there is a better tariff available to them. However, most of the best-value deals are targeted at more affluent customers or those with a smart meter installed. Ofgem is due to announce its next update on the price cap in August. Advertisement And the most recent forecasts have suggested that prices will fall again as we head into autumn. This would mean that the pressure on consumers would ease a little bit more over winter, lasting until around spring next year. Despite this, Advice Direct Scotland has said that many homeowners are still struggling with record levels of debt. Advertisement The charity is encouraging anyone worried about bills to contact its experts for free, impartial advice. Advisers can be contacted at or on freephone 0808 196 8660, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm. The firm is also campaigning for a social energy tariff to be introduced across the UK. This would automatically place the most vulnerable customers on the cheapest deals, and eligibility could be based on benefit receipt or low income. Advertisement How to take a meter reading THE easiest way to take a meter reading is to take a photo of your gas and electricity meters. This means you have evidence in case you need to dispute a bill. You can send in your meter reading online via your energy account. Some providers will also let you send in the numbers by text or through their app. Check which options your supplier offers on their website. Electricity meters If you have a digital electricity meter then you will see a row of six numbers. Five of them will be in black and one will be in red. Write down the five numbers in black, which are shown from left to right. If you are on an economy 7 or 10 tariff, which gives you cheaper electricity at night, then you will have two rows of numbers. You need both to take a reading. If you have a traditional dial meter then you need to read the first five dials from left to right. Ignore any red dials. If the pointer is between two numbers then write down the lowest figure. If it is between nine and zero then write down the number nine. Gas meters If you have a digital metric gas meter showing five numbers followed by a decimal point then you need to write down the first five numbers. If you have a digital imperial meter then you will see four black numbers and two red numbers. Write down the four black numbers only. If you have a digital gas meter, follow the same steps as the digital electricity meter. Conor Forbes, policy director at Advice Direct Scotland, said: 'Lower gas and electricity prices will come as a relief for households, but bills remain significantly higher than they were before the energy crisis began. 'It's important to submit meter readings before the new price cap comes into force, to prevent being overcharged. 'For extra peace of mind, take a dated photo of the meter. If you have a smart meter, make sure it's working. '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. Advertisement 'Struggling customers should know they do not have to suffer in silence. "Our expert team is on hand for anyone who needs help, no matter their circumstances. 'However, a longer-term solution to the scourge of fuel poverty is a UK-wide social energy tariff, which would automatically put vulnerable people on the cheapest deals.'
STV News
2 days ago
- Business
- STV News
Scots urged to submit meter readings as energy price cap falls
Scots are being urged to submit meter readings to their supplier as the energy price cap comes into force. Advice Direct Scotland says those with smart meters should act before midnight on June 30 to avoid being overcharged and ensure their device is working properly. Accurate readings prevent suppliers from estimating energy usage and applying higher prices after the deadline at the end of June. The latest change from £1,849 to £1,720 on July 1 represents a 7% drop for consumers, with average annual bills falling by around £122. Advice Direct Scotland says this price is still £582 more than households were paying before the energy crisis began in autumn 2021. Ofgem resets the cap on what suppliers can charge every three months. Anyone unable to submit readings by June 30 should do so as close to the date as possible, and taking a photo of the meter can help resolve any potential disputes. The next price cap update will be announced by Ofgem in August, with forecasts suggesting a further fall in price. Conor Forbes, policy director at Advice Direct Scotland, said: 'Lower gas and electricity prices will come as a relief for households, but bills remain significantly higher than they were before the energy crisis began. 'It's important to submit meter readings before the new price cap comes into force, to prevent being overcharged. 'For extra peace of mind, take a dated photo of the meter. If you have a smart meter, make sure it's working. '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, no matter their circumstances. 'However, a longer-term solution to the scourge of fuel poverty is a UK-wide social energy tariff, which would automatically put vulnerable people on the cheapest deals.' Advice Direct Scotland says people in Scotland are still struggling with 'record levels of debt', and is encouraging anyone worried about bills to contact its experts for free, impartial advice. Advisers can be contacted at or on freephone 0808 196 8660, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm. The charity has been campaigning for a social energy tariff to be introduced across the UK, which would automatically place the most vulnerable customers on the cheapest deals. Eligibility could be based on benefit receipt or low income. Get all the latest news from around the country Follow STV News Scan the QR code on your mobile device for all the latest news from around the country
