UNISON, today called for urgent action to rein in energy price rises, as British Gas becomes the second big energy supplier to announce higher electricity and gas costs. The 10.4% electricity rise and 8.4% for gas will be a huge blow for the 7.8m British Gas customers warned the union.
UNISON is urging energy regulator Ofgem to act now to keep energy prices down, by following the lead of Ofwat, who are blocking Thames Water’s proposed 8% rise.
Dave Prentis, General Secretary of UNISON, said:
This latest round of price rises from energy companies, delivers a hammer blow to family finances at the worst possible time of year. Winter is fast approaching and millions of customers are already struggling to pay their bills.
With price rises across the economy outstripping wages many will face the dilemma of putting on the fire or putting food on the table.
“This is a crisis in the making and the Government needs to tackle fuel poverty head-on or we will see the number of deaths from cold rising over the winter. It could take positive action today by investing in a national programme to make homes truly energy efficient. UNISON is calling for a street by street approach to home insulation using the switchover from town to natural gas as a blueprint.
“This would help to create jobs, save energy and stimulate economic growth as well as creating a lasting legacy.”