The panic of ‘Bleak Friday eve’ saw Google searches for ‘gas meter reading’ to soar by 913% at 7pm on 31st March. Searches for ‘electric meter reading’ increased by an even bigger 1,121%, again peaking at 7pm on Thursday evening 31st March.
A spokesperson for heating experts Boiler Central, which conducted the research said:
“In preparation for the 54% energy price cap rise on 1st April 2022, many Brits were keen to submit their energy meter readings on 31st March. There were so many people across the country who rushed to heed the advice, that the websites crashed for multiple major energy suppliers.
“On top of the rising costs for food and fuel, the dreaded 54% increase in energy prices has left many feeling anxious about the months ahead. This data demonstrates that people are doing everything they can to minimise the impact of these changes. Alongside Increases in council tax, social housing rent and even the cost of Netflix, it’s no surprise that people are referring to 1st April as ‘Bleak Friday’.”
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