“While the lower price cap offers some relief for households, as energy prices fall and the warmer weather reduces demand, the crisis is far from over. Energy bills remain well above pre-crisis levels, when the average annual cost was around £1,200. With prices set to remain high for the foreseeable future, we need to start thinking of the current cost of energy as a plateau rather than a peak.
“Many households are still struggling to afford even the basics, such as bathing their children, washing clothes, running essential appliances or putting a fan on to keep cool. For them, the challenges fuel poverty presents never go away.
“Forty-two per cent of people we support, according to our research, have a critical year-round need for energy. This can mean having to care for the very old or very young, powering medical equipment or keeping medication on the fridge. For this group, not having electricity goes beyond choosing whether to eat or heat – it can be life or death.”
Mr Cole said the coming summer months provide a vital opportunity for households to prepare for winter, when energy bills are predicted to increase again.
“With energy usage typically lower during the summer, households – particularly those with prepayment meters – can take small steps now that will make a big difference later. For example, building up a small credit buffer over the coming months can help reduce stress and improve resilience when colder weather returns.
