Today marks the start of Big Energy Saving Week!  Alongside other organisations, we’ll be sharing some great tips on ways to save energy and money as we start the new year.

There’s never been a better time to get smart about your energy usage. Did you know that, in September 2024, UK households owed £3.82 billion in energy debts? This is an astonishing increase of 91% compared to 2022[1]. To break this down, the average electricity debt for UK households was over £1,500, and the average gas debt was over £1,300[2].

What is Big Energy Saving Week?

Big Energy Saving Week is a yearly awareness campaign that takes place in the UK from January 17th to 23rd. It aims to raise awareness of energy-saving techniques, reduce energy bills, fight fuel poverty, and positively impact our environment.

During the week, we’ll be sharing lots of tips to help you reduce your spending and, where possible, set more money aside for your priorities. If you’re struggling with debt and trying to get on top of it, making sure you’re not paying more than you need to in certain areas of your budget can really make a big difference.

How much does electricity and gas cost now?

Between now and March 30th, energy prices are capped at 25p per kilowatt hour (kWh) for electricity and 6p per kWh for gas. This cap limits the maximum amount energy suppliers can charge for each unit you use. This cap is updated every three months, so check out Ofgem for the updated prices.[3]

If you live in Northern Ireland, check the Utility Regulator website for the latest energy price information.

If you’re in debt with your energy provider

You’re not alone. Of the £3.82 billion in energy debt highlighted earlier, £2.9 billion remains without a repayment plan[4].

Acting quickly to set up an arrangement is essential to prevent your account from defaulting (which happens when you stop making payments towards your bills), your energy supply from being cut off, or the possibility of legal action. 

Reach out to your provider as soon as possible to explain your situation and work with them to create a payment plan to pay back what you owe. They may even have hardship grants and schemes in place to support you in your time of need.

If you need ongoing support with your energy bills

Speak to your local council about benefits

The Household Support Fund allows households in the UK to claim up to £500 to help with essential costs (including energy bills). To see if you’re eligible, you’ll need to check with your local council and you must apply before the 31st March 2025.

To see how much you could claim in other benefits, use our Entitledto calculator.

We’re here to help

Our team’s taking part in Big Energy Saving Week 2025 on our social channels – Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and LinkedIn! Whilst we’re supporting Big Energy Saving Week, BudgetSmart is here for you all year round with more ways to cut down your bills and make the most out of your money.

 

Whether you need help with energy debts or any other kind of debt, we’re here to support you. Give us a call on 0800 316 1833 or visit our advice page for more information.

 

[1] Ofgem proposes introducing zero standing charge tariffs | Ofgem

[2] Energy price cap: Bills rise with warnings of more pain ahead – BBC News

[3] Energy price cap | Ofgem

[4] Energy debt hits record £3.8bn, as Ofgem propose initiatives to raise…