Fixing the foundations: The need for better targeted support for energy consumers

Fixing the foundations - the need for better targeted support for energy consumers 1.53 MB

Energy affordability no longer dominates headlines as it did when prices were at their peak, and for some households the acute phase of the energy crisis has passed. But millions of households are still struggling, and many are burdened with unsustainable energy debts built up over recent years. 

In the first 3 months of 2024, energy was the most common type of issue Citizens Advice helped people with. Looking at our busiest 5 months for energy debt advice since January 2019, 4 of them have been in 2024.

To demonstrate the continuing impact of higher energy costs, we commissioned nationally representative polling of adults in Great Britain to understand people’s expectations of the coming winter.

For those struggling most, there’s no light at the end of the tunnel. The energy price cap is predicted to rise by around 9% just as the weather gets colder this autumn. This means bills of £1,714 for a typical household - up nearly £150 from the current level.

The new Government has inherited a challenging situation, but it is clear that more support is urgently needed. The most efficient way to provide this is to reform the Warm Home Discount, to ensure it reaches more households and provides support that is based on their energy needs.

The risk of harm to energy consumers over the coming winter is mounting - the government must work fast to ensure that effective support is put in place.