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Energy Price Hike Causes Fuel Poverty Boom and Energy Efficiency Outcry

Many households are bracing themselves for impact, waiting on tenterhooks for possible announcements from their energy companies of a price hike for gas and electricity.
Finance, Home - 17 June 2011   Download IconContent available for download:  
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Half a million households could be plunged into fuel poverty as Scottish Power announce a hike in the cost of gas by 19% and the cost of electricity by 10%. The rise, due to take place on August 1st is four times the rate of inflation and households across the country are bracing themselves for impact as they fear other energy companies may follow suit.

The imminent changes have made it paramount that local council’s prioritise energy efficiency and a new partnership with the Carbon Action Network has instigated a push to alleviate fuel poverty. With 5 million vulnerable households already fuel poor in the UK it is more crucial than ever that the foreseeable rise is kept to an absolute minimum.

Being conservative with energy has long been a lifestyle choice however the recent announcements have left people faced with two options: make their homes more energy efficient or face a tough financial struggle. As consumers are hit by this harsh realisation many are being swayed towards energy efficient organisations, some of which have partnerships with charitable associations.

. Introduction:

Since Scottish Power announced its imminent hike in energy prices many households have been left fearing what lies ahead. With 5 million households suffering from ‘fuel poverty’ already across the UK, it is expected that this figure could rise to half a million. Worried consumers have been left with no other option than to make their homes more energy efficient or be at risk of being unable to afford their most basic living costs.

But how can consumers become more energy savvy and what help is available from local authorities to ensure that this is made a priority?

Joining us to discuss this further is David Robson from the Snug Network and Danny Godfrey from the Green Energy Centre.

. Suggested Questions:

What does research reveal about fuel poverty in our area?

What is fuel poverty?

What does the rise in cost of gas and electricity bills mean for consumers?

What are local councils and the Snug Network doing to alleviate fuel poverty?

How can people make their homes more energy efficient?

Where can our listeners go for more information?