Don’t wait for winter: Lancashire households urged to act now as energy bills set to rise
Lancashire households are being urged not to wait until winter arrives to seek help with rising energy costs, following the announcement that the energy price cap will increase again from October.
Ofgem's latest announcement means the typical annual household energy bill is set to rise by around 4%, taking it to £1,723 under the regulator's revised typical household consumption figures which is the highest level for three years. The increase will come into effect just as temperatures begin to fall and households start relying more heavily on their heating.
Cosy Homes in Lancashire is now encouraging residents to take action before winter, rather than waiting until higher bills begin to arrive.
The council run scheme offers access to free energy advice, services and, for eligible households, grants and funding towards measures designed to make homes warmer and more energy efficient. Support can include improvements such as insulation, heating upgrades, air source heat pumps, battery storage. solar panels and other energy-saving measures, depending on individual circumstances and available funding.
Facing this stark reality for households, the message from the Cosy Homes in Lancashire team is simple: don’t wait until you are cold and facing high bills to find out what help could be available.
With eligibility and funding criteria varying depending on factors including household income, benefits, EPC rating and postcode, residents are encouraged to get in touch now to explore their options and check what support may currently be available in their area.
Even for those who may not qualify for grant funding, Cosy Homes in Lancashire can provide free energy advice and access to other services designed to help households reduce energy use and improve comfort at home, including a visit from one of their Little Vans of Warm who can install quick and easy measures to keep the cold out.
Andrea Howe (Blackpool Council) from Cosy Homes in Lancashire said: “It is easy to put off thinking about winter while the warmer weather has been here, but this is exactly the right time to start looking at what help and support could be available.
“Energy bills are set to rise again from October, and once winter arrives, households can find themselves facing higher costs at the same time as trying to keep their homes warm. Taking action now gives people the opportunity to explore the grants, funding, advice and practical support that may be available to them.
“Every home and household is different, and eligibility will vary, but we would encourage Lancashire residents not to assume that help is not available. Get in touch with the team, check what support is currently available and find out what options could help make your home warmer, more energy efficient and potentially cheaper to run.”
Cosy Homes in Lancashire offers a range of grants and services across the county and encourages residents to check availability as soon as possible, as funding programmes and eligibility can vary.
For more information or for details of an event near you visit www.chil.uk.com or call 03301 110 07 to speak to one of their advisors.