As of October 1, the Ofgem Price Cap increased by 10 per cent, from £1,568 to £1,717 per year - writes Paul Fox.

This will probably mean that your monthly energy bills have gone up.

However, there are ways to reduce this cost.

Paul Fox, regional manager for the South West at the Money and Pensions Service, offers some suggestions on how you may be able to cut your energy bills.

Energy efficiency in the South-West

Living in the South West, Mr Fox understands the region's specific challenges, including energy efficiency in homes.

Homes are rated from A (most efficient) to G (least).

According to the 2022-2023 Energy Housing Survey, the South West has a higher proportion of homes rated E to G compared to other regions, meaning homes retain less heat, leading to higher heating bills.

As colder months approach, it's essential for South West residents to consider ways to manage energy costs, and there are several ways to do so.

Switch tariffs

Despite the price cap increase, several lower-rate tariffs are available.

Begin by reviewing your current energy bill to see if you're overpaying for gas and electricity.

Compare your costs with other suppliers to find a better deal but check for any exit fees before switching.

Make sure to claim

If you're over state pension age and eligible for pension credit, you could receive up to £300 through the winter fuel payment.

All eligible pension credit claims received up to December 21 can be backdated to receive the winter fuel payment.

Those who are getting certain benefits may also automatically get £25 cold weather payments for each seven-day cold spell.

This will be paid automatically if you're eligible - you don't need to apply.

Visit MoneyHelper.co.uk to find the latest information on which discounts are available to help with energy costs.

Reduce where you can

Organisations like the Energy Saving Trust have lots of tips on how to save money on your energy bills.

Visit their website to find the tips and support that will most benefit you.

If you live with other people, have a conversation with them about the energy-saving hacks you can do around the house.

Talk to your family members or housemates about all making an effort to reduce your bill together.

Help is available

Struggling to pay your bills can be worrying, but there is help available.

Get in touch with your supplier to ask for help before you miss a payment.

If you are struggling with money or repaying a debt, there are options.

These include reviewing bill payment plans, taking payment breaks, or having longer to repay what you owe.

Monthly Direct Debit is the cheapest way to pay for your energy, but if you have too much credit left after covering your bills you can ask your supplier to change the amount you're paying.

MoneyHelper also has lots of free guides, including support with paying your energy bills and the bill prioritiser tool, which helps you understand which bills and payments to deal with first, and how to avoid missing payments.

You can find more about how to save on your energy bills, and other money and budgeting resources by visiting our free and impartial website, MoneyHelper – www.moneyhelper.org.uk