HOUSEHOLDS in Scotland have been urged to submit meter readings before the newly lowered Ofgem price cap comes into force.
Advice Direct Scotland, a charity which runs the national energy advice service, is reminding consumers to submit readings before midnight on June 30 to avoid being overcharged, and to ensure that smart meters are working properly.
Accurate readings prevent suppliers from estimating usage and applying previously higher prices to energy used after June 30, as Ofgem resets the cap on what suppliers can charge every three months.
The latest change from £1849 to a lower rate of £1720 on July 1 represents a 7% drop, with average annual bills falling by around £122, according to the charity.
However, Advice Direct Scotland said that this is still £582 more than households were paying before the energy crisis began in autumn 2021.
The charity called for a “longer-term solution to the scourge of fuel poverty” with a UK-wide social energy tariff, to support low-income households which would automatically place the most vulnerable people on cheaper deals.
It said that anyone unable to submit readings by June 30 should do so as close to the date as possible and advised taking a photo of the meter in case of disputes, and suggested checking for more favourable tariffs.
The next price cap update will be announced by Ofgem in August, with forecasts suggesting a further fall, according to Advice Direct Scotland.
It warned that many people are still struggling with record levels of debt, and is encouraging anyone worried about bills to contact its experts for free impartial advice.
Conor Forbes, policy director at Advice Direct Scotland, said: “Lower gas and electricity prices will come as a relief for households, but bills remain significantly higher than they were before the energy crisis began.
“It’s important to submit meter readings before the new price cap comes into force, to prevent being overcharged.
“For extra peace of mind, take a dated photo of the meter. If you have a smart meter, make sure it’s working.
“People can also take practical action by examining their bills, finding out how much they are paying, and checking if there are cheaper options available with other suppliers.
“Struggling customers should know they do not have to suffer in silence. Our expert team is on hand for anyone who needs help, no matter their circumstances.
“However, a longer-term solution to the scourge of fuel poverty is a UK-wide social energy tariff, which would automatically put vulnerable people on the cheapest deals.”
Advisers can be contacted at www.energyadvice.scot or on freephone 0808 196 8660, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.
