Energy bills: Major changes unveiled to help household struggling with cost
Millions of Britons are set to benefit from a change in energy rules which could help households struggling with surging costs
PA
Millions of Britons are set to benefit from a change in energy rules which could help households struggling with surging costs.
Watchdog Ofgem has launched new proposals to reform the power market in a bid to help energy customers.
The latest rules will mean firms will have to offer customers who are struggling to pay bills payment holidays.
In addition, companies will be required to provide 24/7 emergency support for those cut off from their power or gas supply due to faulty meters.
The latest rules will mean firms will have to offer customers who are struggling to pay bills payment holidays
PAOfgem has also confirmed that there will be a crack down on poor energy broker practices for small businesses.
This will mean firms will be better informed on how their energy bills are being paid to brokers and will also enable disputes to be resolved better through a new scheme.
The new rules will come into effect from March 31, 2025 and will protect companies by making sure they have enough capital to cushion them from wholesale energy price increases.
This comes after 30 suppliers failed in 2021 following to a surge in wholesale electricity and gas prices.
Neil Lawrence, director at Ofgem, said: "Suppliers are short-changing too many of their customers, who deserve better.
“Customers need more support when they are struggling and should be able to contact their supplier without frustration or undue delay when they need help.
“The plans we are announcing put the welfare of business and domestic consumers first and set out a comprehensive package to tackle poor behaviour by energy suppliers."
Millions of households are also being issued with cost of living payments to help with essentials such as energy bills and food.
Millions of households are also being issued with cost of living payments to help with essentials such as energy bills and food
gbnewsThe £900 payment has been split into three instalments worth £301, £300 and £299.
The first was already paid in April and May, with the second due in autumn and the third in Spring 2024.
Those receiving Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA), Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), Income Support, Pension Credit, Universal Credit, Child Tax Credit and Working Tax Credit can apply for the scheme.