MORE than one-third of Scots are worried they cannot afford their next energy bill, with half also claiming gas and electricity will put a strain on their finances over the coming year.
Research from Citizens Advice Scotland (CAS) shows around 43% of people will use heating less in a bid to cut down on bills, while 36% plan to use less electricity. Just under 20% will also stop using some rooms to avoid excessive bills.
Susan McPhee, CAS head of policy, said: "Every day citizens advice bureaux across Scotland help people who are struggling to pay their fuel bills. In 2010/11 we helped clients with more than 10,500 energy issues.
"Current economic circumstances mean many people are finding it hard to meet rising fuel costs."
According to Consumer Focus, the average energy bill – based on a standard dual-fuel customer – is 21% higher than it was at the start of last winter, rising to £1294 from £1069.
However, four of the big energy giants last week announced plans to cut prices. British Gas lowered electricity bills by an average of 5%, while Scottish and Southern Energy announced gas bills would drop by 4.5% in 10 weeks.
EDF Energy also said it would cut gas prices by 5% on February 7 and npower announced a 5% fall in gas tariffs.
CAS is now launching its Big Energy Week campaign, aiming to help consumers spend less on heating and powering their homes.
Ms McPhee said: "Through Big Energy Week we want to let people know exactly how they can save money by checking their current tariff, switching suppliers and insulating their home."
Big Energy Week is also being backed by consumer groups Which?, Energy UK and Consumer Focus, as well as industry regulator Ofgem and the Government.
Secretary of State for Scotland Michael Moore, who is supporting the campaign, said: "We know that a lot of households are struggling to cope with rising energy costs.
"Many people could cut their gas and electricity bills by moving to a better deal with their existing supplier, switching to another supplier altogether, or by taking up home insulation offers. But we need to make sure consumers are aware of this and make it easier for them to take action to save money."
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