Energy Bills Crash: 6 Million in Debt!
The latest numbers from Ofgem show that household energy debt has jumped to £3.1 billion. Yet, even with the price‑cap reduction, more than 6 million people are still struggling to keep up.
Why the Trouble Persists
- Prices did fall, but the reduction was too small to offset the rising costs for many.
- Energy arrears are climbing, meaning households are falling behind on payments.
- Many have found themselves stuck with debts that feel impossible to escape.
National Debtline’s Call for Action
Steve Vaid, CEO of the Money Advice Trust, says: “The lower cap eases the pressure for some, but the systemic problem remains. We see millions still wiped out by high bills.”
He added: “We need the next government to launch a Help‑to‑Repay scheme that actually offers a safe exit from energy debt.”
What You Should Do
If your energy bill seems like a cliff, reach out to National Debtline ASAP. Their advisers are ready to help you navigate the chaos.
Ofgem’s Numbers Back Up the Worry
Tim Jarvis, Director General of Markets at Ofgem, told the Energy Security and Net Zero Committee in May that bad debt rose more than 50% over the last year. “We’re now above £3 billion from a previous £2 billion,” he said. This jump indicates not only more people in arrears but also deeper dives into debt.
Bottom Line
Prices have dropped, but the dip isn’t enough. 6 million households remain in the red, fueled by increasing arrears and a larger total debt burden. It’s a stark reminder that urgent, targeted support is essential to keep people from drowning in energy bills.
