'Powerful Shock' From NIE

A 'shock' increase in the price of power has left consumers 'feeling the heat' after confirmation that electricity prices are to rise by 14%.

Northern Ireland Electricity (NIE) confirmed today that the price increase would be implemented from July 1 while the company also warned a further price hike could be imminent in the autumn.

Like all the other providers - such as Phoenix Gas - NIE has blamed escalating worldwide wholesale fuel prices for the increase, which has been predicted for some time by experts.

A spokesperson for the energy provider claimed global factors had an impact on the decision: "We had hoped to hold our prices until later in the year, but wholesale gas, oil and coal prices have increased substantially in recent months," she said.

"Power station fuel costs, which are reflected in the cost of electricity, have increased by over 85% since we last reviewed our prices."

The dramatic rise comes on top of local gas consumers being hit by a recent 28% price hike. However, NIE Energy supplies 738,000 domestic and 48,000 business customers and is by far the largest power provider.

Meanwhile, the Northern Ireland Consumer Council have criticised NIE's decision and called for assistance for Ulster's low income households.

Eleanor Gill, of the Consumer Council, said: "The sheer scale of these energy price increases should trigger an emergency financial package to help alleviate hardship in fuel poor households this winter.

"All possible ways of paying for this emergency fund must be urgently explored."

She added: "Consumers should make sure that they are receiving all payments they are entitled to, budget carefully and save money where they can and be as energy efficient as is healthily possible."

(BMcC)