SCOTTISH households have been urged to submit meter readings to their energy supplier before the new Ofgem price cap comes into force next week.
The national energy advice service, Advice Direct Scotland (ADS), is reminding Scots to submit their meter readings before midnight on September 30.
ADS has said accurate meter readings will help prevent suppliers from estimating usage and applying new, higher prices to energy consumed when they were lower.
Energy regulator Ofgem resets its cap on the amount suppliers can charge every three months with the latest change, an increase of 10%, from £1568 to £1717 coming into effect on October 1.
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The charity, which offers free advice services about energy, has also encouraged people who may not be able to submit readings before September 30 to do so as close to the date as possible.
They have also said that taking a photo of a meter reading can also help resolve any disputes that may arise between consumers and energy suppliers.
Andrew Bartlett, chief executive of Advice Direct Scotland, said winter is going to be a hard and long time for many Scottish households and that they should do everything they can to try and ease the pressure.
He said: “Higher gas and electricity prices are a stark reminder that the energy crisis is far from over. For many Scottish households, winter will be long and difficult, with no relief from high prices until at least spring 2025.
“Submitting your meter readings around October 1 will ensure you are charged correctly for energy used before and after the price cap change.
“Taking a dated photo of your meter for reference is helpful, and if you have a smart meter, make sure it’s functioning.”
Bartlett added: “Consumers should examine their bills, understand their payments, and explore cheaper options with other suppliers.
“Our expert team is available for anyone needing help, regardless of their circumstances.”
According to the most recent forecasts the energy price cap dictated by Ofgem is expected to rise again in January.
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ADS said that the persistently high cost of gas and electricity underlined why the UK needs a social energy tariff, which they said would automatically put the most vulnerable customers on the cheapest deals.
The charity has been campaigning for the UK Government to work with energy suppliers to introduce the policy.
Bartlett: “Long-term energy affordability solutions are crucial, which is why we urgently need a UK-wide social tariff to protect people from excessive bills. This would help fix the broken energy market and alleviate fuel poverty. Urgent action is needed.”
For further information and advice, you can visit Advice Direct Scotland’s website here.
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