MILLIONS of households are facing higher energy bills but some areas of the UK will see bigger hikes.
The energy price cap will jump on Friday, meaning gas and electricity costs will soar by hundreds of pounds.
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The price cap is increasing by £693 to £1,971 a year on April 1, affecting millions of consumers who are on variable tariffs.
The amount you pay for energy is split between the cost of the gas and electricity use, and the standing charge.
A standing charge is added to most gas and electricity bills to cover the cost of supplying your home with energy.
It’s a fixed daily amount that is unaffected by how much energy you actually use.
The price cap daily standing charge is rising from 45p for electricity and 27p a day for gas on average.
But the amount you can be charged varies across the country, with some households set to pay double from Friday.
The BBC compared the price per day for a single rate electricity meter from April, and found some regions are facing price hikes of more than 100%.
According to the data, from energy regulator Ofgem, households in North Wales and Merseyside are facing the biggest increase.
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The standing charge will rise 102%, up 23p to 45p a day, the Ofgem figures show.
South Western properties will pay 49p a day, a jump of 101%.
The standing charge in Southern Scotland will increase 100% to 47p a day.
In South Wale it will rocket 94% to 46p and in the Midland’s it is going up 92%, jumping 22p a day to 46p.
London will see the lowest percentage increase as the standing charge in the capital will go up by 8p to 31p – a 38% increase.
What help is available if I’m struggling with my energy bills?
Your first step, if you’re struggling, should be to contact your energy supplier.
They may be able to change your payment plan or check if you’re eligible for their hardship fund.
For example, British Gas and Octopus have both set up funds to help customers who are struggling with their bills.
You should also check that you’re getting all the benefits you’re entitled to.
Use an online benefits calculator to make sure you’re not missing out on any extra cash.
Similarly, you can search for grants that can help you pay for gas and electricity bills.
There are government schemes available to help households pay for energy costs.
You might be eligible for the winter fuel allowance or cold weather payment if you already get other benefits.
Finally, one of the best ways of saving money is to make your home more energy efficient.
Check whether you can reduce your energy use with a simple trick such as putting foil behind your radiator.
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