ENERGY bills could be higher for many households this winter despite falling prices it has been warned.

The head of watchdog Ofgem said there will be no cash help from the government this year.

Jonathan Brearley appeared before the Energy Security and Net Zero Committee in the House of Commons and said while there was positive news with lower prices than last year bills will still pose a challenge.

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He said: “The market is more stable, it is less volatile and prices are lower than this time last year.

“This time last year, we were anticipating and seeing prices at around £4,200 a year without Government support. And last year, Government did step in to give tens of billions of pounds of support to customers.

“But there is a reality for customers this year: That support is not available.

“So, for many people, their bills will be very similar this year and possibly worse for some than they were last year.”

Glasgow Times:

Advice services urged people to check what help they are entitled to.

Conor Forbes, director of policy with Advice Direct Scotland, said: “This warning from Ofgem is a reminder that many households will face financial challenges when the weather turns colder in the weeks and months ahead.
“Without the government support package that was in place last year, bills will look the same as the previous winter for many or could potentially be higher.
“Given the wider impact of the cost-of-living crisis on household budgets, many Scots are facing difficult decisions about spending, even on essential items.
“No one should struggle alone, and help and advice is available to everyone in Scotland for free.
“The energyadvice.scot service can help identify grants and ensure that people access all the benefits they are entitled to, with advisers available online or over the phone.”