Consumers face energy price hike of up to £258 as energy plans end

Households on 24 fixed energy deals could see their bills rise by up to £258 a year unless they act now and move to a new tariff, according to Uswitch.com, the independent price comparison and switching service.

Customers on plans from five energy suppliers which expire on 31st January risk being automatically transferred onto a potentially more expensive rollover standard tariff, hiking bills up by an average of £213 a year.

Tom Lyon, energy expert at Uswitch.com, says: “Fixed energy tariffs are often hundreds of pounds cheaper than standard variable plans and protect consumers from price rises. However, when these deals end, customers can get a shock as prices usually jump when they’re rolled over to their supplier’s standard variable plan.

“If you’re on a fixed energy plan which ends this month, shop around now for a better deal to avoid a shock price rise. It’s worth noting that any early exit fees on your old plan no longer apply.

“Even if your fixed deal ended last month, it’s not too late to switch and cut your bills before this winter’s cold weather finally sets in.”

Fixed energy plans coming to an end in January 2016