In England, Scotland, and Wales, gas and electricity rates will increase by 10% starting in October, however, the energy market in Northern Ireland operates differently.

According to the Utility Regulator in Northern Ireland, the suppliers it oversees—Power NI for electricity, SSE Airtricity for gas in Greater Belfast, and Firmus for gas in the Ten Towns region will not be seeing any price increases in October.

After record increases, some people should find comfort in this steadiness, according to Raymond Gormley, Head of Energy Policy at the Consumer Council.

"Even if prices are higher than they were a few years ago, as long as they remain stable, that's a good thing," he stated.

"If you remember back to the energy crisis, prices were going up 30-40% at a time and people were moving from one shock to another, whereas if there's stability, people can plan around that."

If they can afford to do so, he said now is an excellent time to be ready for winter.

"Oil prices are very good value for money, so for homes with home heating oil, have a look at your heating tanks; if you need oil, it's a good time to get it.

"Gas is the same. Top up your meter and accumulate some credit for the winter if you have a pay as you go system and a few extra pounds."