Firmus energy have announced a fourth price rise since January for gas customers. This time it will affect both the Greater Belfast and Ten Towns network and customers will see their bills increase by an eye-watering 56.3% from 3rd October 2022.
With prices already as high as they are, this is a very worrying time for Firmus customers.
What does the price increase mean for customers?
An increase of 56.3% is the biggest rise in prices for any supplier in Northern Ireland to date.
For the typical energy user, this means an increase of around £847 on the annual bill for bill pay customers. Those with a prepaid meter will see increases of around £806 per year.
This will be the fourth price increase since January 2022 by firmus energy.
- January 2022: Firmus energy increased prices by 19.48%
- May 2022: Firmus energy increased prices by 37%
- July 2022: Firmus energy will increase prices by 24.54%
- October 2022: Firmus energy will increase prices by 56.3%
This latest hike will mean that Firmus energy prices has increased by over 137% since the start of 2022. This has added around £1,662 to an average bill pay customers bill, or £1,569 to an average prepayment (PAYG) customers bill—so this added increase is only adding to a mounting problem.
What firmus energy have said…
Niall Martindale, Chief Executive of firmus energy, said:
“We know this is not welcome news. Tariffs are set as a direct consequence of wholesale prices on the global market, and we have no option but to reflect the cost of this gas within our tariffs. We remain committed to reducing tariffs as soon as the market crisis subsides and enables us to do so.
“We know this is a very difficult time for many households and businesses and we urge any of our customers who need further support to call our dedicated local team to discuss ways in which we can help.”
I’m a firmus energy customer…what network am I in?
All this talk of networks may get confusing…and we are not talking about mobile phones!
Northern Ireland is broken into three separate gas networks – these are the Greater Belfast area, the Ten Towns area and the West network area. Each is distinct and will have different suppliers, cost and tariff options.
The Greater Belfast area covers: south, west, east and north Belfast; Carrickfergus; Newtownabbey; Duncrue and Harbour; Lisburn; Carryduff; Castlereagh; Newtownards; Larne; and North Down.
The Ten Towns area includes Derry/Londonderry, Limavady, Coleraine (including Portstewart and Bushmills), Ballymoney, Ballymena (Broughshane), Antrim (including Ballyclare and Templepatrick), Craigavon (including Portadown and Lurgan), Banbridge, Newry (Warrenpoint), Armagh (Tandragee) and more than 25 other towns and villages in the surrounding area.
Get in touch with your energy supplier
As everyone realises, we are living in uncertain times. It’s important to get in touch with your energy supplier to discuss any payment issues or concerns and help manage your account. Even providing an up-to-date meter read can make sure your payments are accurate and up to date.
Finding a better deal…
At ‘Power to Switch’ we compare all tariffs and deals across all energy suppliers to save you money. Switching is quick, hassle-free and means you keep more money in your pocket. You don’t even have to tell your old supplier you are leaving!!!
For more information, advice and support on energy issues visit www.powertoswitch.co.uk or follow us on facebook or twitter
