Millions of householders are receiving their new energy bills and those homes supplied by Shell might find the amount they pay has risen drastically.
In April, the UK saw the energy price cap rising by a record £693 per year on average, leaving prepayment customers facing an even larger increase, and many others not being able to afford the huge hike. Householders are still receiving their new direct debit bills this week, and the UK is set to plunge even further into a cost of living crisis with the rising cost of food and fuel.
Ofgem boss Jonathan Brearley told consumers earlier this week that energy prices could rise even further in October too, following the trend of inflation and the Russian invasion.
Manchester Evening News spoke to Shell Energy to find out what support is available to customers. Although the energy company seemed to understand the struggles faced by its customers, Shell didn't give any indication that prices will fall anytime soon.
A spokesperson said: "We recognise the difficulties rising energy bills will cause many households, especially when the prices of so many other goods and services are also rising."
They went on to say that ways in which their customers could manage would be to "temporarily adjust their direct debit and agreeing payment plans, as well as cut down on their energy use.
"Our dedicated payment support team gets to know a customer's circumstances, so they can offer advice to reduce their energy use and suggest ways to help manage their bills. This could include temporarily adjusting their Direct Debit and agreeing payment plans."
Shell Energy say they have a support hub on their website which can set out the help they can offer, and if a customer is struggling to pay, they say the most important step they can take is to get in touch.
"We’re committed to doing what we can to give our customers extra support when they most need it," added a Shell spokesperson.
To help counteract the rising prices, Shell have launched a hardship fund in a bid to reduce burden on some of the worst hit households. Shell said they have set aside £5 million this year into a hardship fund to "alleviate some of the financial hardship and energy debt for our customers."
They say the fund will be administered to ensure it helps those most in need, and where it will have the maximum positive impact. The scheme is likely to be in high demand after the energy regulator Ofgem warned of further price increases.
Shell customers can discuss their circumstances by contacting Shell Energy's customer services on 0330 094 5800 or customer.services@shellenergy.co.uk. You'll need to be happy to explain why you’re struggling to pay your bills as each grant will be dealt with on a case-by-case basis - meaning there isn’t a set criteria that you have to meet in order to receive the funding.
Shell made no further comments about the rise in energy prices.
