Project support officer Shirley Harvey said in the past six months the number of residents seeking help to pay their energy bills had risen by up to 50 per cent.

The last hike in power bills and the lingering impact of last year's economic slowdown are blamed for the increase in calls for assistance.

"We helped 22 clients in February alone this year, and we are aware another price increase is coming," she said.

" In the last six months we have issued approximately $23,520 worth of vouchers issued to us from the NSW Government Department of Industry and Investments."

To help people struggling with the cost of their energy bills, the neighbourhood centre is holding a free workshop with tips on how to save power.

To be held at the Salamander Bay centre on Tuesday, the workshop is held by Energy Australia and will run from 12.30pm to 3.30pm. For more information contact the centre on 4984 6220.