Price rises from some of the biggest energy suppliers in the UK have led to the government introducing a new energy policy making it mandatory for members of the Big Six to offer the cheapest available tariff to customers.

However, with the policy being roundly criticised in the Commons, research released by price comparison service uSwitch.com today suggests that a number of consumers will be rationing their energy use this winter regardless of the new policy hoping to drive down household costs.

According to the figures released today (October 18th), almost nine out of every ten (87 per cent) householders in the UK are planning to keep a keen eye on heating and lighting spends this winter, with 84 per cent of respondents reporting that they were concerned over the rising cost of energy bills.

And it's affecting a number of householders' budgets, too - 92 per cent reported a reduction in disposable income as a result of the widespread energy tariff rises, while 41 per cent of householders admitted paying their bills with bad debts.

Director of consumer policy for uSwitch.com Ann Robinson raised concerns that the latest round of price rises - which has seen British Gas introduce a six per cent rise and npower follow suit with an 8.8 per cent gas hike and 9.1 per cent increase in electricity costs - will affect consumers' standard of living.

"This winter the high cost of energy will see households forced to play Russian roulette with their health and well-being by going without adequate heating," said Ms Robinson. "As suppliers move to push prices up, consumers will be reacting by turning their heating down - the unpalatable choice between heating and eating will become a reality of life for many more this winter. "

And the expert urged customers to look to energy-saving options such as subsidised insulation and LED lighting to help manage their bills.

"These are easy savings to make and could help households to keep their fuel bills manageable this winter."