Bright Energy tariff to increase by up to 20%

A typical Bright Energy customer with a credit meter will see their bill rise by 20% to around £682 per year, while customers with a keypad (PAYG) meter will see an annual increase of 18% to around £695.

Raymond Gormley, Head of Energy at the Consumer Council said: “From September, Bright Energy customers in Northern Ireland will see their annual electricity costs increase by over £100. While this is worrying news for consumers, we are aware the main driver is the significant rise in the wholesale costs for energy globally over the last year, with home heating oil and natural gas prices on the increase too.

“Any customers who are struggling to pay their bill should contact Bright Energy without delay to discuss their available options.”

Raymond added: “We would encourage all consumers to think about ways they can reduce their energy costs. Switching payment option, changing billing method or switching supplier can save some money. The Consumer Council’s website has a free independent energy price comparison tool which empowers consumers to compare all electricity and gas tariffs across Northern Ireland in one place. In the last year over 69,000 consumers have used this tool to get the best deal.”

The Consumer Council recognises that energy costs are one of the biggest household expenses. Their website (www.consumercouncil.org.uk) has a number of free resources including Switch On: A Guide for Home Energy Users to help consumers be more energy efficient at home, get the best from their electricity or gas supply and save money.

Consumers can also get in touch with The Consumer Council for free independent advice by calling Freephone 0800 121 6022 or by emailing contact@consumercouncil.org.uk.