Households want help with energy bills - but what form should it take?

The Iran war is already pushing up what we pay for energy at home - and the debate about what type of support the government might offer to hard-pressed households is well under way.

Ministers have already hinted that if a support scheme is introduced, it’ll be based on people’s household income, rather than available to everyone.

But many households want to see more ambition rather a sticking plaster approach.

A new poll by E.ON has found that 59% would prefer long-term cost security measures over short-term support.

And 91% said they feel under financial pressure from energy bills and would like long-term sustainable energy schemes to be expanded.

“Households want more than temporary help with bills,” said Chris Norbury of E.ON UK.

“They want lasting change and more control over how and when they use energy.”

Energy-saving technology should be more accessible

Many households are also frustrated by the unequal access to technology that could help them cut their bills.

Seven in ten (70%) said it’s unfair that those with the most money can access technology that helps them cut their bills, while those on lower incomes can’t.

E.ON has therefore called for more to be done to make cleaner and smarter technologies more affordable and accessible to all households.

“The transition to clean power will only succeed if people feel the benefits in their everyday lives,” Mr Norbury commented.

“Otherwise, we risk creating a two-tier energy system where those who need help the most are unable to access the technologies that lower bills for the long term.”

People don’t know how effective energy-saving tech can be

Another problem is that many people simply don’t know what difference that energy-saving technology can make to their bills.

For example, nearly three-quarters (73%) of those polled said they didn’t know home batteries could cut their energy costs without being connected to solar panels.

E.ON said this shows there’s a “major awareness gap around the benefits newer energy technologies can deliver to households”.

Speak to your energy supplier if you’re struggling

If you’re falling behind with your payments and worrying about how to pay your next bill, let your supplier know straight away.

They can’t help you if they don’t know you’re struggling, and might be able to offer support such as:

• grants
• payment plans
• advice on managing your account

It might also be a good idea to join the Priority Services Register.

This is a free service that provides extra support to people who need help with their energy supply. 

What else can I do if I’m worried about energy bills?

There are plenty of other practical steps you can take if you’re feeling under pressure.

See what benefits you can claim 

You might be entitled to some financial support to help with the cost of living.

Use our benefits calculator or give us a call to find out what you could claim.

It might be more than you think.

Ask for help with your debts

If you’re feeling weighed down by debt, get in touch for confidential, practical and impartial debt advice.

Try to save energy at home

Just a few small changes to how you use energy in the home could knock a few pounds off your energy bill, like turning lights off in empty rooms and taking shorter showers.

Check out our list of 50 smart energy-saving tips for more suggestions.

Create a household budget

Energy is just one essential cost that comes with running a household.

So make sure you know exactly how much money you’ve got coming in each month and where it’s going.

You’ll then be able to prioritise your spending and spot where you can save money.

Check our guide to creating a budget to find out more.