Fuel poverty charity leader criticises SSE price rises
The leader of a fuel poverty charity has criticised a 9% increase in fuel prices across both gas and electricity announced by energy supplier SSE.
Norman Kerr, Director of fuel poverty charity Energy Action Scotland said: “It is deeply regrettable that SSE have been first to break ranks and make this announcement of price rises, no doubt the others will soon follow suit. However, it is no surprise, given the Bank of England have been forecasting a rise of around 6% and that companies would soon start to apply those rises.
“What is noticeable in SSEs statement is just how much all consumers are now paying to meet the Governments environmental and social targets. Over £100 on every electricity bill is used to fund these ambitions, this is completely regressive in nature, targeting the old, the vulnerable and those hardest hit by poverty with the same charges as the rich and those who can easily afford the fuel they use.”
He added: “ The Exchequer benefits from this and all rises in fuel. Today’s rise alone will see the Treasury gain another £25.5 million from the pockets of consumers. This cannot be right when we see levels of fuel poverty rise to unprecedented levels.”
Energy Action Scotland is the national charity which campaigns to end fuel poverty and works to promote warm, dry homes for all. Website: www.eas.org.uk
Fuel poverty is defined as having to pay more than 10% of income on fuel bills. It is estimated that there are around 900,000 households in fuel poverty in Scotland, ie about 40%.
