Brits leave winter in fuel debt

Brits may be encouraged to invest in a new bespoke conservatory and air pump heating device after it was revealed that millions of homeowners have emerged from winter in debt to their energy suppliers.

Power firms are owed money by some 5.5 million households after the UK experienced its coldest winter for three decades.

A uSwitch survey found that there was a 16 per cent rise in energy debt in the last 24 months, with the total bill reaching £728 million.

The average family now owes more than £280 more than they did just two years ago, meaning a large number will struggle to pay off what they owe.

However, in spite of promised price cuts, National Energy Action has suggested that the problem could worsen before it gets better.

"More than five million households in the UK are currently in fuel poverty and the situation may worsen as we expect to see higher gas and electricity bills in the future," explained head of campaigns, policy, information and research Ron Campbell.

He added that it is vital that people avoid turning their heating down or off during cold spells and suggested that individuals could save cash by investing in affordable energy efficient improvements.

Posted by David Waxman