Clacks households struggling with rising energy bills have been urged to seek support as the new Ofgem price cap kicks in.

From January 1, average bills will rise by £94, meaning a typical household will pay £1,928 per year, up from the previous figure of £1,834.

The price cap will be in effect until March 31, with the level applicable from April due to be announced by the regulator before the end of February.

Hazel Knowles, energy lead for Advice Direct Scotland, said: “The rise in the energy price cap at the coldest time of the year will alarm many people who are already grappling with household bills and have had to deal with the cost of Christmas.

Alloa and Hillfoots Advertiser: Hazel Knowles, energy lead for Advice Direct Scotland.Hazel Knowles, energy lead for Advice Direct Scotland. (Image: Advice Direct Scotland)

“Costs are already hundreds of pounds higher than they were pre-Covid, pushing people into debt. Some have been making difficult decisions about spending on even essential items.

“It has already been an extremely tough winter and the last thing people need is to be paying even more for their energy.

“We urge people not to struggle alone – our expert advisers can provide free advice on the support available and ensure that households are claiming all the benefits they are entitled to.”

Scotland’s national advice service, Advice Direct Scotland, runs the energyadvice.scot service with free, impartial, and practical advice on energy bills.

The energyadvice.scot service is available at www.energyadvice.scot and on freephone 0808 196 8660, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.