Several energy websites have crashed today as customers rush to submit final meter readings before the price cap increase on April 1.
Today (March 31) is the last day to send a meter reading before the energy price cap rises by 54 percent and people are urged to do so in order to make their bills more accurate.
However, several energy firm websites - including Scottish Power, British Gas, Shell and E.ON - have crashed today, according to the website DownDetector.
This means that thousands of customers have been unable to submit meter readings, with many logging complaints about the issue around 8am, the Mirror reports.
Almost all the problems relate to how customers cannot log in or use the energy companies' websites.
On Twitter, one British Gas customer said: "I was transferred from People's Energy, still no access to my account to submit meter readings, no bills, no communication about current rates or upcoming changes. Why is this so difficult for you to sort out?"
Another energy company customer said: "I am trying not to be cynical here but is there a reason why your website is down on the final day before the price cap is lifted? I am trying to submit my readings…like thousands of others I guess!"
At midnight tonight, energy regulator Ofgem is increasing its price cap.
Ofgem estimates the price cap rise will hit approximately 22 million people, adding a massive expense during the cost of living crisis.
Those paying by direct debit will see an increase of £693, from £1,277 to £1,971 per year.
Prepayment customers will see an increase of £708 from £1,309 to £2,017.
Experts including MoneySavingExpert's Martin Lewis have explained that if you take a meter reading on March 31, you can tell your energy provider exactly how much gas and electricity you used before the price cap increase.
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