Two more energy price hikes strike

Consumers face more misery as two more energy suppliers' price hikes come into effect. E.ON and SSE customers will see their bills going up from the 13th and 14th September respectively - the second time in under a year. E.ON's average energy bill will hit £1,293 a year, while SSE's will hit £1,265. Only EDF Energy is yet to announce a second price increase.

Ann Robinson, Director of Consumer Policy at uSwitch.com, says: "Families are coming under financial pressure from every direction and these price hikes as we head into winter are going to push some even closer to the edge. The impact of this recent round of price rises on households could be immense with more rationing their energy use in an attempt to keep a lid on the cost. The real cost of these increases can't just be measured in terms of fuel poverty - it also has to be seen through the eyes of those whose quality of life will be badly affected.

"Just one supplier - EDF Energy - is yet to announce a second price increase. And with wholesale prices now falling there is a glimmer of hope that this will encourage EDF Energy to continue to stay its hand. If lower wholesale prices become a consistent trend then I would urge all suppliers to react quickly to alleviate the pressure on customers.

"However, I would urge consumers to focus on reducing their winter bills now. Moving to dual fuel, paying by direct debit and signing up to a competitive online plan will reduce the price you pay for your energy. Cutting down on the amount you use by becoming more energy efficient will reduce your bills even further. Those who are particularly worried about the impact of future price hikes on their household budget should still look at fixed price plans. Some of these offer good value and security until 2014 - you just have to be aware that if prices do go down again in the future you may not benefit."