As energy bills increase on 1 October by 10% a new survey by fuel poverty charity National Energy Action and YouGov has found almost half (46%) of adults in the UK say they are likely to ration their energy use this winter – using less than they should for maintaining comfort and wellbeing.

The survey of 2,301 adults also found that even in the last three months, when energy costs are typically lower, they were making significant cutbacks:

  • 48% of adults in GB say they have turned off more lights than they wanted to (56% on a low income).
  • 23% say they have had cold meals rather than use the oven (43% on a low income).
  • 40% say they have reduced their use of baths or showers (57% on a low income).
  • 25% say they haven’t run the washing machine when they needed to (45% on a low income).
  • Four percent even reported reducing the use of essential medical equipment (such as oxygen and hoists).
  • A fifth (18%) say they have cut back on essential items or services, while 8% say they have borrowed from family or friends, and 4% have missed payments on other essential household bills (e.g. rent, mortgage, council tax).
  • A quarter (27%) of adults in GB say they have found it difficult to pay for their energy in the last year. This rises to almost half (45%) on a low income of less than £15,000 a year).
  • Over a third (37%) of GB adults on prepayment meters say they have gone without power or heating when they needed it.

The charity also says that the latest price cap increase leaves 6 million UK households in fuel poverty. This comes days after Ofgem said energy debt had reached a record £3.7 billion. This means that, alongside their usage for the winter, households will also be paying back large debts going into the winter. It is estimated that a typical household will now face an annual bill of £1,717, up from £1,568.

Chief Executive at National Energy Action Adam Scorer says, “Millions of households face another dreadful winter, resigned to increasing energy debt or not heating their homes at all. We find ourselves stuck in a predictable loop of increasing prices and inadequate support.

“Whether or not wealthy pensioners should receive help with their energy bill, the decision to restrict the Winter Fuel Payment has put more vulnerable pensioners at risk.

“There is still time for the UK government to increase the support provided through the Warm Homes Discount scheme and to work with Ofgem and energy suppliers to provide direct support to reduce bills, help people at risk of self-disconnection and tackle record levels of energy debt.

“But this must be the last winter for the quick fix. The government needs a plan to tackle debt, and affordability and to deliver warm homes.”