Energy bills in England, Wales, and Scotland rise 6.4%

From April 1, energy bills for millions of households will increase by 6.4%. The energy price cap set by Ofgem will raise average bills from £1,738 to £1,849 each year. This change affects around 26 million households in England, Wales, and Scotland. The increase means households will pay an average of £111 more per year, which is about £9.25 a month. Compared to last year, the bills are £159 higher. However, they are still £531 lower than during the peak of the energy crisis in early 2023. To help consumers manage rising costs, the Energy Saving Trust has shared ten quick tips. These suggestions apply to homeowners, renters, students, and anyone living at home. Some of the tips include turning off standby on appliances, installing draught proofing, and using less hot water. Here are some estimated savings from these actions: Turning off standby could save £45 a year. Using a tap aerator can save £29, and reducing dishwasher use may save £12. Martin Lewis, a well-known money-saving expert, recommends checking if fixed tariffs have early exit penalties. He suggests that consumers should compare energy prices around 50 days before their fixed tariff ends to find better deals. Lewis believes locking into a fixed price can lead to immediate savings and protection against future increases. The current hike follows earlier price rises in October and January.