The call is backed by a coalition of consumer groups and energy bodies, including Martin Lewis and Energy UK.

Citizens Advice said that targeted financial support in the form of a social tariff is the long-term solution to millions of people spending excessive amounts on their bills, both now and during what could be a decade of record prices.

It wants to identify those most in need by combining HMRC data on household incomes and data from energy suppliers on how much electricity and gas they use.

Based on analysis in the report, more than 12 million households on the lowest incomes would qualify for support, and the average qualifying household would see their energy bill reduced by £381 – with some getting up to £1,500.

The call for a social tariff follows nine months of extensive consultation with industry leaders, civil society and the public.

The government’s Energy Price Guarantee is officially set to rise to £3,000 from April which will put even...