ScottishPower and npower both increased gas and electricity prices today.

Scottish Power is increasing gas prices by 34 per cent and electricity prices by nine per cent – meaning the average dual fuel bill will rise by 25 per cent.

Npower has raised prices by 26% for gas and 14% for electricity.

The energy price hikes follow similar decisions from the other four major energy providers EDF, British Gas, SSE and E.ON – meaning all major energy firms have now increased their rates twice this year.

Ann Robinson, director of consumer policy at uSwitch.com, explained consumers have to learn to change the way they use and buy gas and electricity.

“Consumers have got to adjust and there are two key steps to this; making sure we pay the lowest possible price for our energy and learning to use less of it,” she said

“Consumers should look to pay by direct debit and move to an online plan where possible to get the best available prices. Those who have switched recently can afford to sit tight now to see what the final price rise brings.

“But those who have never shopped around before are already paying way above the odds for their energy – they should switch today so that they can start to make immediate savings.”