ENERGY prices rose for millions of households on Saturday, but the increase has been cushioned by a government cap on the cost per unit reports the BBC.

It stepped in after an 80% increase in domestic gas and electricity bills was earmarked for the first half of winter.

A typical annual bill has gone up from £1,971 to £2,500 but will be further mitigated by cost-of-living payments.

But prices are still twice as high as last winter, and charities say that will leave many struggling.

The squeeze is particularly acute for those on prepayment meters, who pay for energy as they use it, and so have largely been unable to smooth out increased bills over the year.

“The most vulnerable, including children, will be cold and hungry as energy prices spiral, despite government support,” said Adam Scorer, from charity National Energy Action.

People paying by direct debit tend to build up credit during the warmer, lighter summer months which then funds some of their extra use during the winter.