Gas and electricity news and energy saving tips

Can I Claim Back Credit From My Energy Supplier?

If you pay your energy bills by Direct Debit, you may have found yourself in a situation where your account is 'in credit' with your supplier, meaning that your supplier owes you money. Like finding cash in the pocket of an old pair of jeans, this can be a pleasant surprise, but what should you do in this situation? In this guide, we explain how and when to claim back anything your energy supplier may owe you.

The UK’s Windfall Tax on Gas and Oil

The Government introduced the Energy Profits Levy (EPL) in May 2022. You may have heard this referred to as the ‘windfall tax’ - a response to the unprecedented profits that UK-based oil and gas companies are reaping.

The tax aims to recoup a portion of the massive profits these companies have made due to factors largely beyond their control, such as the post-Covid demand surge and geopolitical events like Russia's invasion of Ukraine. In this article, we will delve into the details of the EPL, its impact on oil and gas suppliers and its implications for the energy sector.

Winter Creeps Closer as New Price Cap Arrives

As a potentially harsh winter approaches, households across Britain are bracing themselves for financial challenges despite a temporary drop in domestic energy prices. Charities warn that while the typical annual bill will decrease, many consumers will still struggle to make ends meet.

In this article, we investigate the impact of fluctuations in energy prices, Government support and the new Ofgem Energy Price Cap.

Cash for Conservation? National Gas Considers Discounts

Winter is coming! Usually, this means increased energy usage and expenditure is also on the horizon, but households in England, Wales and Scotland may have an unanticipated opportunity to cut their heating bills.

National Gas, which manages the UK's primary gas network, is considering a fresh approach to avoiding supply issues that involve paying households for reducing their consumption during peak times. While this scheme is still in its early stages, it has the potential to benefit both consumers and the UK’s energy infrastructure.

The Rosebank Approval and What It Means for Your Bills

The UK's energy future has long been a subject of intense debate and scrutiny, particularly when it comes to the Government’s ambitious target of reaching net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

The recent approval of the Rosebank offshore development off the coast of Scotland has stirred significant controversy. Located 80 miles west of Shetland, it is the UK's largest untapped oil field, estimated to contain up to 300 million barrels of oil. In this article, we look into the approval, the debate surrounding it, and its potential impact on energy costs in the UK.

The Renter’s Guide to Energy Bills

Whether you live in a flat, a house or shared accommodation, understanding how to manage and reduce your energy expenses is crucial for your financial well-being. In this guide, we'll shed light on the intricacies of your energy bills and provide clever tips and strategies to keep more money in your pocket while being kind to the planet.

Government Shifts Gears on New Petrol Car Ban

The recent announcement by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to postpone the ban on new petrol and diesel car sales in the UK has sparked a discussion among consumers and car enthusiasts alike. Initially scheduled for 2030, the ban will now come into effect in 2035.

This decision has evoked mixed reactions from car enthusiasts, environmental advocates and everyday motorists. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the policy change and how it affects consumers.

New Cost of Living Payments a Welcome Relief

In an effort to cushion the impact of rising bills, millions of low-income households in the UK are about to receive much-needed financial relief in the form of cost-of-living payments. As inflation looms, these payments will be a lifeline for those needing it most.

How Do Your Energy Bills Compare to the UK Average?

Energy bills are an unfortunate but ever-present part of modern life. They can vary significantly depending on factors like location, consumption and the sources used. As energy prices in the UK creep up, you might wonder how your bills stack up against the national average.

Rising Rents Compound Energy Cost Crisis

For many in the UK, the goal of owning a home has gradually become a less realistic prospect over the past couple of years. The latest report from estate agency Hamptons has revealed that renting costs have shot up 12% in the year leading up to August 2023. This recent rent rise marks the highest increase since the survey began in 2014 and paints a concerning picture for renters nationwide.

According to the new research, a typical monthly rent for a newly-let property in the UK now stands at £1,304, a substantial jump over the past 12 months that surpasses the growth seen between 2015 and 2019.