Eden residents must work nearly 21 days to pay bills, says research

This is from new research from ONS data analysis on the median estimated energy cost per year and the median annual pay for various local authorities.

The research calculated the new energy prices based on a 54 per cent increase and compared it with the residents’ salaries to discover the number of working days it would take to earn enough to cover the annual energy bill.

Of all areas analysed, Eden is the second worst, with residents needing to work just under 21 days to cover energy costs.

Soaring energy prices mean residents are estimated to pay £1,626.24 this year for their bills.

On an average salary of £22,291, approximately £18,739 is taken home, meaning the yearly energy bills take up over 104 per cent of a month’s salary, according to Boiler Central who carried out the research.

Eden is second only to the Welsh county of Gwynedd, in which residents are estimated to take home an average pay of £17,092, and where average prices are expected to rise to £1,564.64 after the 54 per cent price cap.

READ MORE: 5 tips to make your fuel last longer amid cost of living crisis

A spokesperson for Boiler Central said: “The current energy crisis is understandably a cause for concern for millions of people in the UK, particularly in regions where it is clear residents are paying a disproportionate amount of their salaries to cover the cost of energy bills.

“If you are struggling to meet payments, start by speaking to your energy provider as soon as possible so you can work out an affordable payment plan — this is something providers must do in accordance with the office of gas and electricity markets. 

“Furthermore, many energy providers offer schemes and grants whereby you can alleviate some of the strain of heating and energy costs.

“These work by helping make your home more energy-efficient, therefore reducing the outgoing costs you will likely have.”

READ MORE: Cost of living crisis UK: Our mission to help you save money