Millions of households across Britain are being urged to take immediate action to prevent higher energy charges, as a new price cap comes into force this week.
Deadline Looms for Standard Tariff Customers
Customers of major suppliers including British Gas, EDF, EON, Ovo, and Octopus who are on standard variable tariffs have been advised to submit an up-to-date meter reading before Thursday, 1 January. This crucial step ensures they are billed accurately for the energy used before the new, higher price cap takes effect.
Energy experts warn that failing to provide a reading could mean suppliers estimate usage, potentially applying the new, more expensive rates to energy consumed in December. The advice is particularly vital for the millions without a functioning smart meter.
Expert Advice: "Take a Dated Photo"
Jillian Edmund, energy project lead at Advice Direct Scotland, emphasised the importance of evidence. "Energy prices remain significantly higher than they were before the energy crisis began," she stated. "That is why we are reminding households that it is important to submit meter readings before the new price cap comes into force, to prevent any overcharging."
She offered a key tip for consumer protection: "For extra peace of mind, take a dated photo of your meter." For those with smart meters, she advised ensuring the device is transmitting data correctly.
Ben Gallizzi, an energy expert at Uswitch.com, echoed the call to action. "Households should take a moment to read their energy meter in the coming days to avoid the possibility of being charged at higher energy rates," he said. "Customers who don’t have a smart meter should submit their readings before or on 1 January, so their supplier has an updated – and accurate – view of their account."
Further Support and Next Steps
Both experts highlighted that struggling customers are not alone. Advice Direct Scotland offers free guidance via their website energyadvice.scot or on the freephone number 0808 196 8660.
Practical steps consumers can take include:
- Examining current energy bills to understand usage and cost.
- Checking if their supplier offers any free energy-saving schemes, particularly for off-peak times.
- Comparing tariffs to see if cheaper options are available with other suppliers.
The new price cap, set by the regulator Ofgem, will be in place for three months until it is reviewed again on 1 April. This regular change makes submitting timely meter readings a recurring task for those not on fixed deals.
In summary, with just days until the change, energy customers are being told that a few minutes of effort now could prevent unexpected bill shocks in the new year.
