Energy bills could rocket to £6,000 next year, experts warn
ANNUAL energy bills for the average household could soar to as much as £6,000 next year, experts have warned.
Consultancy Auxilione has predicted the price cap on bills could reach £6,089 in April.
The cap is already expected to reach £3,576 in October and £4,799 in January.
It currently stands at £1,971. A new price cap - which will take effect on October 1 - is expected to be announced on Friday 26 August.
The forecast will come as a major blow to families already struggling during the cost of living crisis.
Around 45 million people are predicted to fall into fuel poverty this winter.
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The price cap is rising after demand for gas soared when countries came out of Covid-19 lockdowns.
The Ukraine war has compounded the issue, as Russia slashes its supplies to Europe.
The energy price cap, which is set by the regulator Ofgem, limits the maximum suppliers can charge customers.
But it does not protect them from wholesale prices.
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After reaching over £6,000 in April, Auxilione has predicted bills will slowly drop in the second half of next year, eventually to £5,160 in October.
How can I get help with my energy bills?
If you're concerned about rising energy bills, or are struggling now, there is a range of support on offer.
Energy bill discount - £400
Millions of households will be eligible for a £400 energy rebate later this year.
The money will be automatically taken off your energy bills in instalments from October.
So households will have £66 taken off in October and November, and £67 each month from December through to March next year.
The discount is non-repayable as it is a rebate and not a loan.
Those using a traditional prepayment meter will have to take action if they want their £400.
Their energy firm should send them a discount voucher to redeem at their usual top-up point.
Energy bill grants - up to £1,500
Many energy suppliers have schemes in place offering you financial assistance if you're struggling to pay your bills.
You can get up to £1,500 from British Gas if you're facing "exceptional circumstances".
If you're not, the maximum grant you can get is £750.
Scottish Power offer 40% off eligible customers' debts as well, capped at £750 per household.
How much you'll get, and how to apply will vary.
You can check out our explainer for more details.
Household Support Fund
There's also the Household Support Fund, which was introduced by the government in October last year. It is running until September.
Councils have been handed a pot of money from the government which they can then decide to divvy out to households in need.
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What each council is offering and who is eligible varies though, so you'll have to contact yours if you think you could be eligible.
If you don't know what council area you fall under, you can use the