Energy prices are rising faster than benefits, wages or pensions, meaning the amount that UK households owe to energy suppliers – their energy debt – is also likely to grow.
On April 1 2025, the energy price cap, which is the maximum amount suppliers can charge, will rise by 6.4%. This is the third consecutive quarterly increase, and a rise of 9.4% compared with the limit set the previous April, which amounts to an increase of £159 on the typical bill.
Meanwhile, benefits such as universal credit are being increased by only 1.7%, which will mean those on low incomes will find it challenging to pay for the energy they need. The increase is so low because, every April, benefits rise in line with the rate of overall inflation for the previous September.
