Stories

Wed, 26 Aug 2026

Wed, 26 Aug 2026 Why high energy bills look like they are here to stay

The government is under pressure to support billpayers when domestic energy prices predicted to rise further.

* A further 9% increase is predicted at the peak of winter in January, according to Cornwall Insight.
* EDF suggests energy bills will remain "stubbornly high" until the end of the decade.
* The typical household's dual-fuel bill is now 70% higher than it was at the start of 2021, with an additional £600 per year.
* Unpaid energy debt has reached a record high, with over £6bn in outstanding bills and charges.
* Ofgem estimates that unpaid bills will rise to £7bn by the end of the year.
* The average household in debt owes more than the typical annual bill, with covering the cost of debt adding around £60 to the average annual bill.
* A proposed debt relief scheme has been put forward by Ofgem, but funding for it is yet to be confirmed.
* Charities and industry experts are calling for a discounted tariff for those who need it most, based on benefits, health, and income data.