Auriga Services has welcomed the latest price cap on energy bills after allocating over 92,500 emergency fuel vouchers in January 2024.
Year-on-year the organisation witnessed a 143% increase in the number of emergency fuel vouchers it distributed — up from 38,000 in January 2023 — showcasing the scale of the cost-of-living crisis.
Coming into effect from 1 April 2024, Ofgem’s price cap is therefore welcome news. The maximum price drops from £1,928 to £1,690 per year, with the potential for household gas and electricity bill costs to fall by up to 12%.
Jill Wheeler, Chief Executive at Auriga Services said: “The consumers we support are really feeling the financial strain and the volume of emergency fuel vouchers we distributed at the beginning of the year truly showcases the scale of this. Therefore, bringing the cap to its lowest rates since August 2021 is positive and I’m sure it will provide some relief for homeowners and residents.
“That said, overall prices are still extremely high and the reality is that energy costs remain nearly double what they were prior to the cost of living crisis. As a result, fuel poverty continues to be very real, and a few months of reduced prices are unlikely to go far enough for consumers to escape that.”
Auriga Services is placing the spotlight on support for low income households, guidance for dealing with debt and long-term investment in energy efficiency.
Jill added: “It’s important that housing providers identify ways to support the public, where possible. For example, businesses can direct consumers to Ask Bill, Auriga’s consumer platform, for free, impartial advice on numerous topics, including how to manage debt. Implementing energy efficiency measures is also important, as it helps ensure residents’ bills aren’t disproportionately high.”
For further information on how your business can help those in financial crisis, contact clientsolutions@aurigaservices.co.uk or 0121 362 3607.
If you’re an individual seeking impartial advice, please visit: www.askbill.org.uk
