Many people worried over fuel bills, survey finds - 17/01/2012

Many people may like to perform an energy comparison and switch gas supplier to find a cheaper deal, as worries over the cost of fuel are said to be widespread.

A survey by Citizens Advice revealed half of people say their household finances will be strained this year due to the cost of gas and electricity, while 43 per cent admitted they are worried they will not be able to afford their next bill.

The research was released to mark the start of the organisation's Big Energy Week, which is underway now and runs until January 21st.

Supported by the government, energy suppliers, charities and consumer groups, the event will see experts offering advice to individuals around the country about how they can cut their heating and power expenses.

Chief executive of Citizens Advice Gillian Guy said: "We know hikes in prices have put extra pressure on people’s budgets at a time when money is already tight. Day in day out our bureaux [is] helping people who can't afford their fuel bills."

She added the group is concerned that some people may be spending more money than necessary because they are not getting the help available to them or are not on the best tariff.

Therefore, the charity is encouraging people to compare energy details to see if they can cut their expenses by switching to a new deal.

Secretary of state for energy and climate change Chris Huhne gave his support to Big Energy Week and encouraged homeowners to take action to reduce their expenses.

"Many people could cut their gas and electricity bills by moving to a better deal with their existing supplier, switching to another supplier altogether, or by taking up home insulation offers," he explained.

All the Big Six providers have announced cuts in their gas or electricity tariffs this month, though director of energyhelpline.com Mark Todd said he is hoped there will be another round of cuts before the end of winter, which could further alleviate the pressure on struggling families.

If you want to find out more about your energy options and how you could save up to £389 in minutes, click here.

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