Energy bills could increase, warns watchdog Ofgem

There are warnings that the UK could face a hike in fuel bills if more energy is imported

17:04 20 February 2013

The regulator Ofgem has warned that the UK may endure higher energy bills in the future, it has emerged. The reason for the increase in fuel bills could come down to the nation having to rely on more imports for their energy.

 

The Chief Executive of watchdog Ofgem, Alistair Buchanan, who is expected to retire in 2013, warned that if the UK had to rely on imported fuel, such as gas, it could mean that energy prices would rise as a result of this.

A spokesperson from the Department of Energy and Climate Change commented on the UK’s current energy situation, saying: “We cannot afford to be complacent and may face a looming energy gap.”

 

Adding: "The reforms we are making to the electricity market through the Energy Bill and through our gas generation strategy are aimed at plugging this gap in order to keep the lights on.”

 

Reportedly, some are not concerned when it comes to the nation’s power supplies as they see imported energy as being a solution, although it is acknowledged this will mean more costs.

 

It is believed that on average Britain’s dual fuel bills have increased over the last few years.

 

The Shadow Energy and Climate Change Secretary Caroline Flint said in one report by the BBC that there should be a way for the UK’s energy prices to be made fair. She said Labour had a plan for an “energy regulator with the power to force energy companies to pass on savings to consumers".

 

Although to do our bit, we could look to conserving energy in order to reduce our carbon footprint.

 

One way Brits can save money on their energy bills could be by turning things off when they are not in use, putting things in place to stop draughts around windows and/or doors in order to not lose heating, and also by saving water where possible.