Rising Energy Costs

The real danger of rising energy costs: CAS responds to further predicted hikes

Predictions of a 25% increase in the energy price cap from January are beyond alarming, says Citizens Advice Scotland (CAS). 

With thousands across Scotland already experiencing real harm after years of rising costs for essential bills – a rise of this magnitude will be incomprehensible for people to absorb.

CAS Assistant Director, Emma Jackson says: "Demand for advice on energy has risen across the Citizens Advice Network over the last five years. Even in the summer months this year, almost 2,500 people needed emergency financial support from their local CAB to keep their energy connected". 

“The average energy debt brought to our network was £2,700. To put it simply, people already cannot afford their essential energy costs. As the October UK Government budget approaches, conversations will turn to difficult choices, but those making the toughest decisions are the people coming to our CABs".

“The UK Government can and must act before the winter and deliver genuinely impactful support, targeted to those most in need. This includes people on the lowest incomes and those with unavoidably high usage linked to disability and rurality. The alarm bells can no longer be ignored – action is needed now."

Read more about CAS’s proposed solutions in the latest Energy Brief.