firmus energy tariff increase in the Greater Belfast area unwelcome news, says The Consumer Council

The typical firmus energy customer with a credit meter will see their bill rise by around £69 per year, while customers with a prepayment gas (PAYG) meter will see a yearly increase of about £68.

Raymond Gormley, Interim Head of Energy at The Consumer Council said: “This is unwelcome news for around 50,000 firmus energy customers and small businesses in the Greater Belfast area, and follows the news recently of a 17.75% increase for customers in the Ten Towns area.

“However, we understand the main driver for the increase is the significant rise in the cost of wholesale gas globally over the last year. Consumers who are experiencing financial difficulty and are struggling to pay their energy bills should contact their supplier without delay to talk about how they can help during these times.”

Raymond added: “The Consumer Council would encourage firmus energy customers in the Greater Belfast area to shop around to ensure they are on the best energy deal. The firmus energy tariff can be compared to the SSE Airtricity tariff that will increase by 9.8% from 1 April 2021.”

To support consumers in the switching process, The Consumer Council’s website (www.consumercouncil.org.uk) has an independent energy price comparison tool for households and small businesses. In the last year over 71,000 consumers have used this tool to help them get the best deal.”

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]