Ahead of Ofgem’s latest price cap rise, a Survation poll for Advice Direct Scotland found that 46 per cent of people are concerned about paying for gas or electricity in the next year.
This comes as households prepare for the impact of the Ofgem price cap increase.
From Tuesday, April 1, the cap level will rise from £1,738 to £1,849.
This 6.4 per cent increase will push the average bill up by £111 per year, which is £711 more than bills were before the energy crisis in autumn 2021.
Advice Direct Scotland, which runs the energy advice service energyadvice.scot, is urging those struggling with energy-related debt to contact its team for free advice.
The charity is also encouraging Scots to submit meter readings before midnight on March 31.
Accurate readings will stop suppliers from estimating usage and applying new, higher prices to energy consumed when they were lower.
People unable to submit readings before April 1 should do so as close to the date as possible.
Those with smart meters should ensure the device is working.
Taking a photo of the meter reading could help resolve any disputes.
Conor Forbes, policy director at Advice Direct Scotland, said: “It has been a really tough start to the year for thousands of Scottish households, and this poll shows that worries about the cost of energy continue to prey on people’s minds.
“Unfortunately, things are going to get even more difficult this week as the Ofgem price cap rises again, heaping further pressure onto already stretched household budgets.”
“The most important thing to remember is that nobody should struggle alone, and help is available.
“Anyone experiencing difficulties should visit www.energyadvice.scot or call 0808 196 8660 for assistance.”
The advice service provides free, impartial, and practical energy bill advice.
