Energy Prices Turn Households Into Search‑Engine Junkies
It’s not just the gin‑and‑tonic bubbles that are popping – the online zillions of people are literally searching for “can’t pay bills” like they’re looking for a wizard’s spell. On 24 November, just a couple of days after the energy supplier Bulb went bust, that particular query exploded by a jaw‑dropping 1300 %. The spike wasn’t a fluke – by the end of the month the same search term was on fire 14 times the usual amount.
Why The Numbers Are Growing In‑Dark‑Night
A quick glance at the figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) shows household gas bills up 28.1 % and electricity bills 18.8 % year‑to‑year, thanks to a turkey‑ing cost of wholesale energy worldwide. Once you start seeing that dramatic drop‑in‑service from Bulb, the buzz gets real.
The “Electric‑Bill‑Help” Fever
- On 23 November – the day after Bulb declared it would go into administration – searches for “electric bill help” spiked a staggering 2400 %.
- People were also looking for cheaper heating options. “Electric heater” – a term that got a 112 % boost that same day.
Who’s Actually In Trouble?
Since the summer of 2023, a staggering 25 energy suppliers have been able to’t keep up with the market’s soaring costs and have shut down. The near‑mass exodus shows how hard it is for folks to keep their lights on as prices keep climbing.
What Can You Do?
Don’t jump to the electric blanket on your sofa just yet – there are real solutions out there. Grants and schemes, like the Cold Weather Payments and the Warm Home Discount, can slash your bill by up to £140. You might also snag a direct grant from your supplier or find a national grant that will ease the load.
Take a moment to check with your local Citizens Advice Bureau. They’re the friendly neighbourhood pros who can give you a hand in figuring out if you qualify for any of these supports.
Feeling a bit panicked?
Remember, it’s not just you. The way bills have jumped has everyone on the lookout, and most people are looking for a lifeline. If you’re such a “single minded” person who loves checking online for support, you’re not alone.
