Leeds locals share energy bill fears as gas and electric price cap rises by 4%
We asked Yorkshire Evening Post readers how they feel about energy bills - here is what they said 📣
Energy regulator Ofgem has increased the energy price cap by 4% this month, a decision reasoned by the “volatile global gas markets.”
The new price cap is £1,723 for a typical household paying by direct debit for gas and electricity which equates to paying £5 more on energy bills each month.
This change, combined with years of previous price rises can create unnerving feelings around energy bills, especially as the colder weather kicks in.
To get a picture of how Leeds locals are feeling about energy bills, we asked YEP readers if they are worried about their energy bills this winter.
“I watch my smart meter go up constantly”
Jacqueline Lawler shared that she was feeling particularly unsettled about rising costs of gas and electricity.
In fact, she said that it’s become her “new normal” to fret about how her use of household electrics causes her monthly bill to steadily increase.
Jacqueline said: “I’m really worried. I watch my smart meter go up constantly every time I put an appliance on.”
“Heating hasn't been on for months”
Gareth Stothard questioned if his heating credit is accurate because his numbers don’t appear to add up.
He highlighted that he hasn’t been using the heating throughout the year but expects the colder weather will create even more expenses.
Gareth said: “I'm nearly 300 in credit. Dunno if they [are] working it out wrong. I'm using between 100 and 120 every month and I'm paying 150.
“Obviously that will increase in winter. Heating hasn't been on for months.”
“The candle and camp stove will come out”
Angela Augustus is on a pre-payment plan which means that she doesn’t have fear of an unexpectedly high energy bill.
If she doesn’t have enough, she said she’d resort to old-fashioned energy sources.
Angela said: “I'm pre payment so if I don't have money to put on then candle and camp stove will come out.”
Energy advice for Leeds residents
Leeds City Council advises local residents struggling to pay their gas and electricity bills to contact organisations such as Green Doctor and Home Plus for free energy advice.
There are also numerous community hubs across Leeds which offer a warm space to locals in winter and aim to reduce daytime energy demand.