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ONE in three Scots families will have to go without heating within three years if fuel costs keep rising.

A study showed average energy bills were on course to top £1500 by 2015.

When that happens, six out of 10 families will be forced to go without adequate heating and a third will switch off altogether.

Ann Robinson, of uSwitch.com, who commissioned the survey, said: “The UK is hurtling towards a cliff, beyond which the price of household energy will become unaffordable.

“Once the average bill hits £1500 a year, consumers will be forced to compromise on their comfort, health and well-being.

“Time is running out. If pricing trends continue, we will hit crunch point in less than three years.”

Average household heating bills currently stand at £1252 a year.

The study warned they were set to top £2766 by 2018.

Labour’s shadow energy minister Tom Greatrex said: “Households across Scotland are struggling to keep their heads above water. Further energy bill increases could be the tipping point.

“Rather than standing on the sidelines as energy companies rack up record profits, it is time for Government to act.”