For the past few months we have been witnessing a complete shift in the energy provider market with gas prices soaring for millions of UK consumers. This has really impacted utility bills so let’s talk about the new cost of living in the UK.
Due to a global surge in demand for gas as well as world-wide supply issues due to pandemic restrictions over 2021, the UK (with its huge reliance on gas living but with limited national gas reserve) has been severely impacted by the shortage.
Generally speaking the increase is up by £140 a year but this will really depend on the average usage per household. Some households have even found that their supplier just can no longer compete and have dropped out of the market. This has meant their customers have been automatically moved onto more expensive tariffs. In the past home owners and tenants alike were able to shop around and chose from an array of tariffs from multiple suppliers. At present, 7 of these suppliers have gone bust so there are a lot less pricing options to choose from.
We’ve always been focused on pointing out to our own customers areas in the property that are not energy efficient that could cost them that bit extra every month. Features such as whether the property has double or single glazed windows, whether the property is completely air tight (making sure there are no drafts), checking the type of water heaters (the newer combi heaters are the most efficient) and even looking at the appliances – hobs that run of gas usually have an efficiency rating, but induction hobs are really the way to go to reduce gas consumption.
Whether you are moving with us as a private or corporate client it is worth speaking to your Citrus Relocation Consultant about looking for energy-efficient homes, especially over the course of Winter and Spring – the colder months in the UK. If you’re only going to be in the UK for a 1 – 2 year period, until the gas situation here stabilises, then it’s worth reviewing new build homes with a high energy-efficient rating or for older properties considering solar and wind powered options and homes with good insulation.
At present when our customers are moving into a new property we are advising them to stick to the existing provider and then to wait until the market stabilises to find a new tariff. This is because you are unlikely in the volatile market to find a supplier that will be cheaper than your existing rate. It is likely that only the largest providers in the UK will still be in operation by Spring 2022. If you have moved with Citrus recently and have any queries about your own energy bill please reach out to us on +44 (0)203 303 3208
When our clients want us to get involved with their utility set up, most of the time we link them with an independent organisation who will find the best tariff and deals for you. To find out more about our utility packages please call us on call +44 (0)203 303 3208 or email us on globalmobility@citrusrelocation.com
Sources:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-58746953
UK energy crisis: What’s happening? – Please Connect Me
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There’s no task too big or small for our dedicated team so if you are planning to relocate, are moving for work or need help finding the right home for you, please get in touch.
Speak to one of our Relocation Agents today either by filling out the contact form, using our live chat or one of the below methods.
Email: globalmobility@citrusrelocation.com
Call: +44(0) 203 303 3208