Utility bills 'set to rise before the year's end'
Published On 8 August 2007
Customers could see their utility bills increasing again before the end of the year, a consumer website has warned.While most utility suppliers reduced their consumer charges in the first six months of 2007, Moneyextra.com has now warned that international oil price increases could mean UK energy bills will start to rise again soon.
In June and July oil prices rose by 20 per cent and some experts are predicting costs of $100 a barrel when winter comes.
Robin Amlot of Moneyextra.com commented: "There's been a lot of hot air in the press about British Gas and its profits. But the simple fact is that our fuel bills are likely to be going up over the next six months.
"With higher mortgage costs as well, thanks to rising interest rates, it's more important than ever that households keep an eye on their spending, making sure they're getting the best value for money in gas and electricity."
Mr Amot added that it was still possible to get a good deal on utilities if consumers were prepared to shop around and switch provider while they can.
However, utility watchdog Ofgem recently removed rules which prevented utility suppliers from tying customers into long-term contracts.
Ofgem said the move would encourage utility suppliers to install more environmental metering systems, but consumer groups said the decision would hurt customers.
