Lanarkshire households are being urged to submit meter readings to their energy supplier before the New Year, ahead of the new Ofgem price cap coming into force.
Advice Direct Scotland, which runs the national energy advice service energyadvice.scot, is reminding consumers to act before midnight on December 31.
Accurate readings will prevent suppliers from estimating usage and applying new, higher prices to energy consumed when they were lower.
The regulator, Ofgem, resets its cap on the amount suppliers can charge every three months.
The latest change, from £1,717 to £1,738 on January 1, represents a 1.2 per cent increase on the current level.
People who cannot submit readings before December 31 should do so as close to the date as possible. Those with smart meters should ensure the device is working.
Taking a photo of the meter reading can also help to resolve any disputes that may arise.
Andrew Bartlett, chief executive of Advice Direct Scotland, said: “We know it’s been a tough year for many Scottish households, and with energy costs rising again, the start of 2025 is set to be even harder.
“High gas and electricity prices show the energy crisis is far from over, with no relief likely until summer.
“With all the Christmas and Hogmanay celebrations, it’s easy to forget about meter readings, but submitting one around January 1 will ensure you’re charged correctly.
“Taking a dated photo of your meter can help too, and if you have a smart meter, check it’s working properly.
“Consumers should also review their bills and see if better deals are available.
“Long-term, we need a UK-wide social tariff to protect vulnerable households and tackle fuel poverty. Our team of experts is here to help anyone struggling – visit www.energyadvice.scot or call 0808 196 8660.”
Advice Direct Scotland is also urging households to review how much they are paying and check whether there are better tariffs available.
Advisers can be contacted at www.energyadvice.scot or on freephone 0808 196 8660. The service is open for most of this week, except Christmas Day and Boxing Day.
*Don’t miss the latest headlines from around Lanarkshire. Sign up to our newsletters here.
And did you know Lanarkshire Live is on Facebook? Head on over and give us a like and share!