£1,000 Energy Bill Warning

Homeowners have been warned that energy costs could rise by 60 per cent over the next few years, which could take average annual bills up to £1,000.

Energy supplier Centrica has said that continued increases in the cost of oil across the globe could see consumers face higher gas and electricity bills in the UK.

Jake Ulrich, managing director of the UK's largest energy supplier told the BBC that the shape of the world economy will contribute to price rises at home. This is despite ongoing efforts in the UK to produce cheap oil and gas.

"We're part of a world economy and I don't think we can rely on UK production or cheap gas, cheap energy of any sort any more," he explained.

"I think it's a reality not only in the UK but in Western Europe and North America. Energy is going to become relatively much more expensive in the future."

Predicting how homeowners will cope with gas bills of up to £1,000, Mr Ulrich said people may buy energy-efficient appliances and keep a closer eye on the temperature of heating systems.