Scottish households are being urged to submit their energy meter readings before Hogmanay to avoid higher charges under the new Ofgem price cap.
Advice Direct Scotland has reminded consumers to act before midnight on December 31.
Accurate readings will ensure suppliers do not estimate usage and apply the new, slightly higher rates to energy consumed under the previous cap.
The energy regulator, Ofgem, updates its price cap every three months, and from New Year’s Day, the cap will rise from £1,755 to £1,758, equivalent of a 0.2% increase.
Households unable to submit readings before the deadline are advised to do so as close to the deadline as possible, while those with smart meters should ensure their devices are working properly.
The next price cap update is expected in February, with forecasts suggesting a slight decrease in April.
Jillian Edmund, energy project lead at Advice Direct Scotland, said: “The rise in the price cap on New Year’s Day might be small, but with many households stretching their budgets to the limit in the build-up to Christmas, it is still unwelcome.
“Thousands of people across the country are still struggling with the cost of their energy bills, which remain far higher than they were when the crisis began.
“With energy prices not expected to fall significantly any time soon, it is crucial to stay on top of your bills and check if cheaper deals are available with other suppliers.
“It is also important to submit meter readings before the new price cap comes into force, to prevent any overcharging. For extra peace of mind, take a dated photo of your meter, and if you have a smart meter, make sure it’s working.
“Anyone struggling this winter should remember that help and advice is available.”
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