Household Energy Price Rises 5% In UK

An increase in the cost of domestic energy in England, Wales, and Scotland has taken effect, adding pressure to household budgets in the new year, according to Kevin Peachey's report for BBC News.

A higher price cap, set by regulator Ofgem, from now to April means gas and electricity costs will be 5% higher than the last three months.

A higher price cap, set by regulator Ofgem, from now to April means gas and electricity costs will be 5% higher than the last three months.

A household using a typical amount of gas and electricity will see their annual bill go up by £94. But forecasts suggest energy prices could come down sharply in the spring. Campaigners said the relatively high cost of energy and other essential bills is putting severe pressure on budgets.

January tends to be the busiest month for debt charities after Christmas spending, and this year is likely to be the same.

The government said it is supporting households through financial assistance, such as cost-of-living payments. Energy regulator Ofgem said the annual bill for a household using a typical amount of gas and electricity, paying by direct debit, has now risen from £1,834 to £1,928.

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