Investing in homegrown renewable power and cutting our reliance on oil and gas is crucial if we’re to fix our energy system

For the fourth winter in a row, British people are facing sky-high energy costs, with the average annual bill in England, Wales and Scotland to rise to £1,738 – an increase of 1.2% – from January. Compared with 2020-21, households are paying 65% more for energy, with £700 added to the typical yearly bill.

People are already struggling because of the cost of living crisis, so they have less ability to pay these high prices. Levels of energy debt are soaring as a result and fuel-poor households are forced to use dangerously low amounts of energy during cold snaps. Meanwhile, the energy industry continues to post huge profits. Just 20 firms have made more than £457bn since the start of the crisis.

Simon Francis is coordinator of the End Fuel Poverty Coalition