Household energy bills forecast to see biggest rise in four years

Among others calling for government help for struggling billpayers is Simone Rossi, chief executive of supplier EDF Energy.

Speaking exclusively to the BBC’s Big Boss Interview podcast, Mr Rossi said: “We are actually walking into a second significant energy crisis after the one we experienced just four years ago.”

He said that the government should extend the cut in VAT on electricity bills from 5% to 0% beyond April, when it is due to expire.

He also urged ministers to give the go-ahead to the new Jackdaw gas field off the coast of Aberdeen, and the Rosebank oil field off Shetland.

The government has consistently said that it will consider ways to offer breathing space to billpayers on the cost of living.

Additional reporting by Oliver Smith and Paul Seddon. Graphics by Miguel Roca-Terry.