Almost half of UK adults say there are likely to ration their energy use this winter, a fuel poverty charity’s survey has revealed.

With energy bills set to rise by 10% tomorrow (1 October), National Energy Action’s YouGov poll also found that 46% of Brits plan to use less fuel than they should for maintaining comfort and wellbeing.

Meanwhile over a quarter (27%) said they had it have found it difficult to pay for their energy in the last year (rising to almost half (45%) of those on a low income of less than £15,000 a year).

And over a third (37%) on prepayment meters said they have gone without power or heating when they needed it.

The charity has warned that this week’s price cap increase will leave six million UK households in fuel poverty, with a typical household set to face an annual bill of £1,717, up from £1,568.

Last week Ofgem said energy debt has reached a record £3.7 billion.

National Energy Action’s survey of 2,301 also found that even in the last three month, when energy costs are typically lower, people were making significant cutbacks, including:

  • 48% said they have turned off more lights than they wanted to (56% on a low income)
  • 23% said they have had cold meals rather than use the oven (43% on a low income)
  • 40% said they have reduced their use of baths or showers (57% on a low income)
  • 25% said they haven’t run the washing machine when they needed to (45% on a low income).
  • 4% even reported reducing the use of essential medical equipment (such as oxygen and hoists)

Additionally, a fifth (18%) said they have cut back on essential items or services, while 8% say they have borrowed from family or friends, and 4% have missed payments on other essential household bills (eg, rent, mortgage, council tax).

Chief Executive at National Energy Action Adam Scorer said: “Millions of households face another dreadful winter, resigned to increasing energy debt or not heating their homes at all. We find ourselves stuck in a predictable loop of increasing prices and inadequate support.

“Whether or not wealthy pensioners should receive help with their energy bill, the decision to restrict the Winter Fuel Payment has put more vulnerable pensioners at risk.6

“There is still time for the UK government to increase the support provided through the Warm Homes Discount scheme and to work with Ofgem and energy suppliers to provide direct support to reduce bills, help people at risk of self-disconnection and tackle record levels of energy debt.

“But this must be the last winter for the quick fix. Government needs a plan to tackle debt, to tackle affordability and to deliver warm homes.”