This means that the average energy bill will rise by £693 (54%) to £1,971 per year, with substantial increases likely in domestic gas, fuel, and electric fuel bills.
The Trades Union Congress suggested that this rise will increase 14 times faster than average weekly wages.
To best prepare for the expected increases in bills, residents in St Helens are being advised to adopt more energy-saving tips to help lessen the impact of this.
St Helens Council is urging residents to take a meter reading on Thursday, March 31, and if possible, take a picture of the reading.
Once submitted to your energy supplier, this should ensure you are billed for your actual energy use at the lower rate.
Other energy-saving tips are to update or use the eco-setting on your boiler, switch to LED bulbs, unplug all your chargers at the wall, ensure your home is insulated, and use a microwave more often than an oven or stove if possible.
Homeowners within council tax bands A to D will also be eligible for the Government’s £150 energy rebate through their council tax bills.
Councillor Jeanie Bell, Cabinet Member for Safer, Stronger Communities, said: “The changes to the Ofgem price cap from April 1st are going to mean much higher energy bills for many households in the borough so it is important to take action now to help lessen the impact if you are able to.
“It’s heart breaking that we are in this position where we are having to give advice to people who are worried and scared about how they are going to heat their homes amidst a rise in cost of living and rising fuel costs. The £150 payment is a small sum from Government but it doesn’t mitigate the struggle that people are now going to face.
“We will do everything we can to support residents in St Helens including offering advice and ideas on how to save money on your energy bills.
“Taking accurate meter readings of your actual gas and electricity usage before the changes is one important way you can do this. It will ensure you pay for your actual use at the lower rate after the new charges take effect in April.”
Councillor Bell added: “You can use some of the energy saving tips we have highlighted online as these could also help to reduce the cost of your bills. They are small steps but all of them can make a significant difference over time.”
For more information please visit the St Helens Council website here
