Research has forecast that household energy bills could soar to more than £4,200 from January.

Charities and campaigners in Scotland have warned of the impact of the “unsustainable” rise in household energy bills amid new price forecasts. 

On Tuesday energy analysts at Cornwall Insight said that energy bills will rise by more than they previously thought, reaching around £3,582 per year for the average household from October - and soaring to more than £4,200 in January.

This is around £650 more than the previous forecast.

The agency cited regulator Ofgem's decision to change the price cap every three months instead of six and higher wholesale prices for the sharp jump.

This could see average household bills jump to £355 a month at the beginning of next year.

Responding to new forecasts, Citizens Advice Scotland (CAS) social justice spokesperson Stephanie Millar, said: “These soaring energy prices simply aren’t sustainable for household budgets already at breaking point due to the cost of living crisis. Many are going to be forced between heating their homes or feeding themselves this winter.

“People will be incredibly anxious about rising prices, and there is a risk that a rising tide of poverty and debt will pull millions across the UK under.

“The most important thing people can do is seek advice. The Citizens Advice network offers free, impartial and confidential advice and we get real results for people - on average those who see a financial gain through our advice are over £4,400 better off. We’re for everyone regardless of background and circumstance and we don’t judge, we just help. People can get help from their local CAB or check www.moneymap.scot.”  

The calls come as First Minister Nicola Sturgeon called on the UK Government to hold an emergency summit about the cost of living crisis. 

Marjorie Gibson, head of operations with Scotland’s national advice service Advice Direct Scotland, added: “This is yet another dire warning that will cause huge anxiety for households across Scotland.

“We urge people across Scotland not to struggle alone.

“Free support and advice is available from our expert advisers at energyadvice.scot, and we can help people explore eligibility for grants or ensure they are claiming all the benefits they are entitled to.”