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Martin Lewis warns people will have to choose between ‘freezing or starving’ if government doesn’t ‘act now’
The Money Saving Expert warned that some households will see their energy bills rise as high as £600 per year
Martin Lewis has called upon the government to ‘act now’ as the looming energy crisis will force millions of households to choose between ‘freezing or starving’.
The Money Saving Expert founder spoke to ITV news about the national crisis last night, where he warned energy bills could rise by 51% in April as the price cap gets set to increase, adding as much as £600 to annual costs.
Lewis, from Cheshire, explained: “We now know that on April 1st, the price cap is going to rise by between 46-56% which, for someone on a typical bill, will be the equivalent of £600 per year.
“That is going to be a huge smack in the face for people across the country.”
He admitted that he ‘felt choked up’ with a ‘wave of nausea’ after listening to people’s stories of how they are already struggling to pay their fuel bills, adding that has donated £100,000 of his own money to the fuel poverty charity, National Energy Action to fund a free chat advice service for vulnerable customers.
He said: “It was a way of appeasing my own frustration that I couldn’t help more.
“It’s no accident the timing of me doing this: this is me very deliberately saying we desperately need to do something.
“I am willing to do my bit and now we need the Government to help.”
Offering advice for those concerned about the looming energy crisis, Lewis instructed: “Put the money aside now if you’ve got it. If not, go to one of the websites that does a benefit assessment to see if you’re entitled to any benefits.
“If you’re struggling and can’t pay your bill, talk to your energy provider. We’re still under coronavirus rules, they can’t cut you off, they can’t lock you out, and they may be able to put you on a payment plan.”
The Money Saving Expert’s other tips for energy bills include:
- Consider getting a fixed tariff that is no more than 40% above the price cap
- Improve insulation in your home
- Turn the thermostat and radiators down
- Think about budgeting everyday costs
- Use your smart meter and take regular meter readings
- Speak to your energy provider now if you are struggling to pay your bills