Rising living costs and energy bills impact households in UK and US

Rising living costs and energy expenses are placing increased pressure on households in both the United Kingdom and the United States.

In the UK, families are being encouraged to review their eligibility for financial support to mitigate the impact of higher energy bills and stretched budgets. Potential assistance includes Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Personal Independence Payment (PIP), and Council Tax Reduction. Additionally, children in households receiving Universal Credit in England may qualify for Free School Meals starting in September 2026.

In New York, residential electricity rates are reported to be 50 percent higher than the national average. Critics of current state energy policy attribute these surging costs to state taxes, fees, and mandates such as the CLCPA law, which they claim has impacted grid capacity. There are ongoing political debates regarding the oversight of the New York State Public Service Commission and its role in approving utility rate hikes.