What if I haven't got the help I'm entitled to?
If you have not received a Cost of Living payment that you think you are entitled to, you can enquire here:
https://secure.dwp.gov.uk/report-a-missing-cost-of-living-payment/welcome
Why were energy prices so high?
Energy prices have been rising worldwide for a variety of reasons. A cold winter in Europe last year put pressures on supplies, so there is less gas stored globally than normal. There’s also been increased demand from Asia, and around the world as economic activity increased after lockdowns. They have also increased because Russian has sharply cut its supplies of gas to Europe. This has pushed up the price of gas across the continent, including in the UK. Prices are now (May 2023) starting to fall again.
Will the UK have enough gas?
Yes - while global wholesale gas prices are currently high the government are confident that the UK’s security of energy supply is secure now and over the winter.
What happens if my supplier goes bust?
If your supplier stops operating, Ofgem – the independent energy regulator - will automatically switch you onto a new supplier so there will be no interruption to your supply of energy. There is a well-planned system in place to protect households and ensure your gas and electricity keeps running.
Will my bills go up if that happens?
All customers will still be protected by the energy price cap. This limits suppliers on how much they can charge for standard variable rates.
What should I do if my supplier goes bust?
You will be moved to a new supplier, but this may take a couple of weeks. Citizens Advice have lots of information about what to do – including taking meter readings and how to get back any money you are owed https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/consumer/energy/energy-supply/problems-with-your-energy-supply/your-energy-supplier-has-gone-bust/
What if I can’t afford my energy bills?
Contact your supplier as soon as you can if you are worried about paying your energy bills. They have to work with you to agree on a payment plan you can afford under Ofgem rules. This includes reviewing a plan you have agreed before.
You can ask for:
- a review of your payments and debt repayments
- payment breaks or reductions
- more time to pay
- access to hardship funds
- Priority Service registration – a free support service if you are in a vulnerable situation.