The Energy Advice Line has urged consumers to shop around for new energy deals following reports that many popular fixed tariff products will come to an end on December 31.
Julian Morgan, managing director of the price comparison, switching and advice service for energy users, said reports suggested bills could rise by up to £112 for some consumers.
“It’s very important for consumers not to turn a blind eye to their energy bills at this time of year because many fixed deals will be coming to an end during the festive season,” Mr Morgan said.
“At least a dozen or so fixed-price tariffs, which have capped the energy bills of many consumers, will be coming to an end at the end of the year, and these consumers will find themselves facing higher bills when that happens.
“The thing to remember is that it’s possible for these consumers to find another good deal, they just have to shop around and switch before they end up paying more than they need to.
“We understand that energy bills are the last things on people’s minds at the moment, but it’s important not to let this area of the household budget slide, especially as the cold winter weather starts to set in.
“What consumers don’t need is a nasty financial shock after Christmas.”
According to newspaper reports, EDF Energy, M&S Energy, Npower, SSE, Scottish Power and iSupplyEnergy all have fixed-price tariffs that will end once the New Year arrives.
Some average bills, the reports claim, will rise by £112.92 to £1,199.12, while a typical increase will add an extra 8 per cent to a bill.
But Mr Morgan said there were many good gas and electricity tariffs to be found that offered the chance for consumers to avoid the increase and possibly reduce their bills even further.
“Consumers need to check their contracts and those who are on fixed-tariffs that end on December 31 need to take action immediately,” Mr Morgan said.
“It doesn’t take long for a member of the Energy Advice Line to search for another great deal and possibly save the customer even more money.
“All consumers have to do is agree on the deal and we will do the rest, leaving them free to enjoy the festive season and secure in the knowledge they won’t face a nasty New Year surprise.”
The Energy Advice Line is one of the UK's leading price comparison and switching services for business and domestic energy customers. It is also an advocate for energy market reform and has campaigned for a better deal for energy users, including calling for a ban on cold calling and changes to regulations to make it easier for all consumers to switch suppliers.
The service is completely independent and free. Consumers can quickly and simply search the market for the best available energy deals from an extensive panel of small and large energy suppliers. The service also offers a free advice service for business energy customers throughout the to of their energy contracts.
For further information visit www.energyadviceline.org.uk