EDF hits millions with price rises

The power giant is the last of the big six energy firms to raise the cost of household bills this winter (see the Cheap Gas & Electricity guide).

EDF is increasing standard gas prices by 6.5% and electricity prices by 7.5%, which will cost a typical dual fuel customers £68 per year more.

The hike comes into effect just one day after the end of the firm's price freeze guarantee ended.

Those on its fixed, capped and some online tariffs won't be affected but the price rise does apply to vulnerable customers on EDF's Energy Assist tariff.

Beat the hikes

Anyone on their provider's standard tariff is almost certainly paying too much as the typical cost of such deals is around £1,100 a year whereas the cheapest online deals start at around £950.

To find the best tariff, compare the options available via a comparison site (see the Cheap Gas & Electricity guide).

The best deals are available to those who get their bills online and pay by monthly direct debit.

When switching, remember that when a firm describes its tariff as cheapest, it's based on an average and can vary depending on where you live.

The energy market is complicated so determining which is the cheapest provider for you depends on your location and how much power you use.

This is why a comparison, based on your circumstances, is key.

Further reading/Key links

Slash energy costs: Cheap Gas & Electricity Your rights: Fight Energy Direct Debits Capped tariff help: Is Your Cap/Fix Ending Soon? Boiler protection: Boiler Cover