Your cookie preferences


We use cookies and similar technologies. You can use the settings below to accept all cookies (which we recommend to give you the best experience) or to enable specific categories of cookies as explained below. Find out more by reading our Cookie Policy.

Select cookie preferences

Skip to main content

Two million homes face being pushed into debt as energy costs soar

50% of households say that assistance from the government over rising energy costs in the last year has been inadequate, as Uswitch research finds that the incoming price cap rise could push two million homes into debt.
Share this guide
Gas ring on stove

Ofgem and individual energy suppliers have also come in for criticism as consumers hold them responsible for current energy pricing challenges.

Those who were fortunate to be on fixed deals before the energy market crisis began will have started moving onto standard variable deals and seen their bills soar, with the current price cap level £1,277 and projected to rise to the region of £2,000 in April 2022.

If the price cap increases to £2,000, Uswitch research shows that monthly bills would increase by £60.25 a month, but the average billpayer says they could only afford to pay an extra £33.90 a month. Those in fuel poverty, who pay 10% or more of their household income on energy, say they could only afford to pay an additional £13.70 on average each month.

Richard Neudegg, Head of Regulation at Uswitch, said: “Make no mistake, millions of households could soon face even tougher choices when it comes to paying their bills, with the looming price cap predicted to reach nearly £2,000 on average.

“This situation is even worse for those already in fuel poverty, who already pay more for their energy yet are less able to deal with a huge hike in their bills.

“The Government needs to do much more, and fast, to scale up its targeted support for vulnerable households in a way that reflects the cost increases coming in April.

“The support offered through the Warm Home Discount payments is in no way sufficient to help the most vulnerable during this crisis, and the payments should be automatic for all who qualify.

“Now we are in the depths of winter, and people are already struggling with their bills, it is time for the Government to act.

”Those struggling with energy payments can visit the Uswitch website to learn more about what help is available to them depending on their situation.

Read more:

Energy Price Rises. The UK energy market in 2024 explained

The UK energy market has been extremely volatile in 2021 and carried on into 2024, mainly stemming from high energy wholesale prices. Find out what this means for you here.

Learn more

What is Ofgem's energy price cap 2024? - Uswitch

Information on the energy price cap set by Ofgem at a level of £1,928 for standard variable tariff customers from January to April 2024.

Learn more

Average gas and electricity bills in the UK - Uswitch

What does the average UK gas and electricity bill look like? See how your energy usage and bills compare against Ofgem's averages for 2024.

Learn more