CONCERN…Sinn Fein MLA Phil Flanagan
FERMANAGH HOUSEHOLDERS are facing more financial woes as Power NI have announced a increase of almost 18%, which will come into force this July.
In what is a further blow for householders the 17.8% increase in prices for both domestic and commercial customers with estimates predicting the rise could add upwards of £90 to annual domestic bill.
Fermanagh MLA Phil Flanagan, Sinn Fein’s energy spokesman has claimed the price increase announced by Power NI may be the first step in efforts to make domestic consumers and small businesses pay more to allow price reductions for large businesses.
Mr Flanagan said: “In recent weeks we have been provided with statistical information from the Utility Regulator that large business users are paying comparatively more than their competitors in most other member states in Europe pay.This is an unacceptable situation for our large users.
“Unfortunately, the solution being put forward by some to resolve this matter is simply to bring in a price hike for domestic customers and small businesses.
“I am concerned that this increase may be the first step in efforts to make domestic consumers and small businesses pay more to allow price reductions for large businesses.
“Many households and small businesses across the north cannot afford such a substantial increase in electricity prices and if it turns out that they are going to pay more in order to subside large users, then this will leave a sour taste in many people’s mouths.”
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