Both E.ON and ScottishPower have agreed not to raise their prices for residential energy for another year. Speaking before the Government’s meeting with the energy industry today, Dr Paul Golby said it was important customers understood why prices were high.

The E.ON chairman said: “It’s vital we all make sure British families get the best value from the money they will spend on keeping warm in the coming months, that is why we promise no price rises this winter. This summit is a start to making sure customers are more aware of the advice and assistance we provide that will help keep their homes warm and their bills under control.

Similarly, ScottishPower issued a ‘Winter Price Guarantee’ that means it will not increase its standard prices for gas and electricity until at least 1st April 2012. In a company statement ScottishPower said they would “absorb any potential increases in the wholesale markets during this period.”