Groups across the island are topping up vouchers and preparing other handouts to help families cope with the hike, the biggest one-time increase in about seven years.

Kreta Ayer Kim Seng constituency has increased vouchers that cover essentials to $120 from $100, said MP Lily Neo (Jalan Besar GRC). She said discussions are underway to address electricity costs specifically.

As well, from tomorrow, the Nee Soon South constituency will raise its assistance to needy families between $10 and $50 because of hikes in utility prices, said MP Lee Bee Wah.

Despite the help, some Singaporeans are deeply concerned about the increase, which comes on the back of rising prices of oil used to generate power.

'I want to cry, why do the bills have to go up?' asked Ms Fiona Thomas, a jobless single mother of three.

'Now I go around the house to make sure I switch off the fan and lights when they are not in use. It's going to be more difficult to foot bills now.'

The increase in power rates comes as Singaporeans contend with inflation, which hit a 26-year record in April, and a slowing economy.

Read the full story in Wednesday's edition of The Straits Times.