Firmus energy customers in the Greater Belfast area face another gas price increase

This increase will see the yearly gas bill of a typical household with a credit meter rise by about £145 per year. Those customers with a prepayment gas meter (PAYG) costs will increase by around £143 per year.

Peter McClenaghan, Director of Infrastructure and Sustainability at the Consumer Council said: “Today’s announcement means firmus energy’s customers in the Greater Belfast area will be subject to two price increases in three months. This increase is driven by very high global wholesale natural gas prices and, worryingly for consumers, prices are likely to stay high the foreseeable future.

“Gas consumers in the Greater Belfast area have the opportunity to switch supplier and the Consumer Council would encourage customers to check they have the best deal before 5th January 2022 when the opt-out period ends. Our website (www.consumercouncil.org.uk/energy) has a free independent energy price comparison tool which empowers consumers to compare all gas tariffs across Northern Ireland in one place.”

The Consumer Council is also working with National Energy Action, to host a series of energy efficiency webinars where consumers can learn useful tips and advice on how they can make their energy go further this winter, save some money on their bills, and do their bit for our environment at the same time. The next webinar is taking place this Wednesday, 15 December from 2pm-3.30pm with more dates available in January 2022.

Consumers who are struggling with their energy bills or topping up their meter should contact their supplier directly for support. Consumers can also get in touch with the Consumer Council for free, independent advice by calling Freephone 0800 121 6022 or by emailing [email protected].