The energy price cap will increase by 4% from today - the equivalent of about £60 per year - taking an annual bill to £1,723 for the typical household.
Chief Executive of Consumer Scotland Sam Ghibaldan said many households will be concerned about how to manage their energy costs in the months ahead.
“Consumers are facing a sharp rise in energy prices just as winter begins, with further significant rises in January also being forecast.
“The increase will hit those who use gas hardest at a time when finances are already stretched. In addition to heightened costs, energy debt continues to reach unprecedented levels.
“Our annual Energy Affordability Tracker found that, while these increases affect all consumers, those who are more vulnerable are likely to be hit hardest.
“While governments provide some support, current schemes do not consistently reach the households facing the greatest affordability pressures.
“We are developing proposals for the UK and Scottish governments to improve the use of data so that support can be better targeted at households facing the greatest affordability challenges.
“We also want stronger engagement from energy suppliers to agree affordable repayment plans for consumers in debt and are asking the UK Government to introduce a debt relief scheme for households who are struggling.
“The continued volatility of gas prices underlines why the transition to low-carbon technologies is also a consumer protection priority.
“As energy costs rise again, governments, regulators and suppliers must work together to ensure households facing the greatest financial pressures receive the support they need to keep their homes warm and safe this winter.”
Advice for consumers
Check whether a fixed tariff would save you money
- The price cap only affects standard variable tariffs, which can increase or decrease over time
- Customers on fixed tariffs are protected from price cap changes until their contract ends, as they pay a fixed unit rate for the duration of their agreement
Submit a meter reading and review your Direct Debit
- Give your supplier an up-to-date meter reading before any tariff change. If you have a functioning smart meter this should be done automatically
- Check whether your Direct Debit is realistic and spread costs over winter to avoid unexpected bills and debt
Claim all energy support you are entitled to
- Check eligibility for the Warm Home Discount, benefits-related support, local authority schemes, and supplier hardship funds
- If you have a disability, use medical equipment at home, or are otherwise vulnerable, ask to be added to the Priority Services Register
Improve your home's energy efficiency
- Explore measures that help your home retain heat and reduce the amount of energy needed to stay warm
- Some actions such as draught-proofing doors and windows, installing radiator reflector panels, using heating controls effectively, and ensuring loft insulation is adequate can make a noticeable difference
- If possible, consider longer-term improvements such as cavity wall insulation or upgrading to more efficient heating systems
Contact your supplier early if you're struggling
- Don't wait until arrears build up
- Suppliers must offer support to customers who cannot pay, such as repayment plans, emergency credit, and other affordability measures
- Early engagement usually can give you more options. You can also speak to advice services such as Advice Direct Scotland for impartial advice and support