Consumers hit out at latest energy price cap rise

Due to the increase in the energy price cap, the public is facing yet another rise in fuel costs, expressing strong dissatisfaction with the latest cost of living shock. This upward adjustment of the energy price cap undoubtedly places greater economic pressure on households that are already struggling.

The Office of Gas and Electricity Markets (Ofgem) has increased the energy price cap by 6.4%, meaning that a household using a typical amount of gas and electricity will see its annual bill increase by £111, reaching £1,849. Consumers have expressed concern about this, especially as it adds insult to injury for low-income families and the elderly.

Speaking to consumers in Birmingham on BBC Radio WM, Hilda Tootsy said: "You get your wages, but it's soon gone, and they want to take more." Others expressed dissatisfaction with the high cost of sustainable heating alternatives, such as air pumps. Kevin Greaves said: "It's sad that we live in a civilized Western society and still can't solve people's basic needs."

Sarah Hague stated that she decides every day whether to use the oven and whether to put on a sweater to save on heating costs. Personal finance expert Laura Rettie said that at one point, switching energy suppliers made no sense because no supplier could offer cheaper prices than its competitors. "But now, some suppliers can offer cheaper prices, so it's definitely worth shopping around." She advises consumers to actively look for more favorable energy deals.

Lewis Taylor, CEO of Wolverhampton-based consultancy Energy Angels, said the increase was higher than expected. "This really puts people under pressure," he said. "We are still not out of this cost of living crisis, so people are still struggling." He also added that his organization would like to see more regulation of wholesale energy producers (who distribute to suppliers). Energy Secretary Ed Miliband responded that the government is determined to protect people by expanding the "Warm Home Discount" and encouraging domestic energy production in the UK.