Ofgem’s new energy price cap means the average household paying by direct debit will see bills rise to £1,717 until December 31 – that’s about 10 per cent or £12 more.

This is just an estimate for a 'typical household', so your bill could be higher or lower depending on how much energy you use.

Another price change is coming on January 1, 2025, when Ofgem will set the rates for the next three months. 

Here are some tips to help you conserve warmth and save money this winter. 

Turning your thermostat down by just 1°C can save around £100 a year – but make sure to keep between the range of 18°C - 21°C that is deemed safe.  

Switch your heating off when you leave the house even for a few hours. Unless you own a heat pump, it's cheaper to reheat your home that keep it on low when you’re out.  

Turn off lights in rooms that you’re not in even for a few seconds. And consider an LED bulb when replacing a broken one – they are brighter and more cost efficient than older bulbs.  

Laundry tips: Put a wash on a lower temperature, like 30°C, and use a drying rack instead of a dryer.  

Installing a chimney draught excluder can reduce heat escaping through your chimney, saving over £60 a year in the process.  

Install draught-proofing strips around windows and doors. This quick DIY job can retain warmth and save money.  

How to get help with bills this winter:  

If you’re struggling to pay your energy bills, the first thing you should do is contact your supplier—they’re required to help set up a payment plan that you can manage.  

For pensioners, the Winter Fuel Allowance is now means-tested, meaning it's no longer given to everyone automatically.

You may qualify if you have a low income or if you receive certain benefits, like Pension Credit.

If you're eligible but haven't applied yet, there's still time to make a backdated claim to receive this year's winter fuel payments.

There are also other schemes that can help, like the Household Support Fund, Warm Home Discount, and Fuel Direct scheme.  

For more information download the 2024 Energy Advice Booklet that we’ve created: https://northhertscab.org.uk/get-advice/ 

For more information, advice and help regarding everything mentioned above, contact Citizens Advice North Herts at northhertscab.org.uk or Citizens Advice Stevenage at stevenagecab.org.uk or call the Citizens Advice Hertfordshire Adviceline number 0800 144 88 48.