Dear homeowner ....we are now putting your combined direct debit payment for gas and electricity to £240 per month....

THAT was the letter I received from n-power yesterday.

Needless to say, I had to pick my jaw up from the floor – and no, I don’t live in a mansion.

How can these energy suppliers get away with charging families, the elderly and just about anybody these ridiculous fuel prices?

Now that it’s getting colder and darker its clear we will be using more power - the lights, fire, slow cooker and radiators are in constant use.

But what about those who are in fuel poverty?

Many more homes are close to this poverty level, struggling with fuel bills, with low or irregular incomes, or living in homes that cost more than average to heat.The elderly who are scared to put their heating on because of the bills.

Energy suppliers have been attacked by the industry watchdog for confusing consumers with complex tariffs...

Ofgem said it wanted a "simpler, clearer, fairer" market under reforms that will force energy firms to tell customers about their best electricity and gas deals and cut the number of core tariffs to four per fuel type.

That would be nice!

Anyway, in the end I called my energy supplier, I gave correct readings and they agreed to reduce the ridiculous amount slightly.

Yes, the government are helping out more with free insulation if you meet a certain criteria and energy-saving tips.

But come on - it’s just not good enough.