The Utility Regulator today welcomed the 7.8% average decrease by SSE Airtricity Gas Supply in its regulated gas tariffs in the Greater Belfast area.
Commenting on the announcement by SSE Airtricity, Utility Regulator Chief Executive, Jenny Pyper, said:
“I very much welcome SSE Airtricity’s announcement that it is to reduce gas bills for their Greater Belfast customers from 1 April. This comes on the back of Power NI’s recent decrease to its regulated electricity tariff. This now means that Northern Ireland consumers are benefiting from amongst the lowest electricity and gas standard tariffs in the UK.
“One of the main reasons for the decrease is falling wholesale gas costs. As we regulate SSE Airtricity’s prices in Greater Belfast, we announced a tariff review in January, which included a thorough analysis of all their cost elements. Customers of SSE Airtricity can be confident that, due to our regulation, their bills reflect the actual costs of supplying gas to their homes and businesses.
“As always, we will continue to monitor wholesale gas costs in relation to SSE Airtricity’s regulated prices.”
This announcement marks the conclusion of the tariff review which is undertaken by the Utility Regulator and SSE Airtricity, in consultation with the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment and the Consumer Council for Northern Ireland.
Referring to SSE Airtricity’s announcement to reduce their electricity tariff, Jenny said:
“Whilst we don’t price regulate SSE Airtricity in respect of electricity, their 8% reduction is further good news for consumers.”
ENDS
For further information, please contact Adele Boyle on 028 9031 6664 or 07787 279584.
Notes to editor
• The Utility Regulator is the independent non-ministerial government department responsible for regulating the electricity and gas industries and water and sewerage services in Northern Ireland.
• An average decrease has been quoted as the actual decrease will depend on usage.
• An announcement from firmus (for the Ten Towns area) is expected in early March.