The energy price cap rise is “simply unaffordable for millions” and must be cancelled, Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has said.
Ofgem has confirmed an 80.06 percent rise in the cap, which will send the average household’s yearly bill from £1,971 to £3,549 from October.
The cap will come into effect for around 24 million households in England, Scotland and Wales on default energy tariffs on October 1, and will remain in place until December 31, when it will be adjusted again.
And speaking after the announcement, Ms Sturgeon said the rise should not be allowed to happen.
Nicola Sturgeon
Jane Barlow
The First Minister tweeted: “This is simply unaffordable for millions. It cannot be allowed to go ahead.
“This rise must be cancelled, with the UK Government and energy companies then agreeing a package to fund the cost of a freeze over a longer period, coupled with fundamental reform of the energy market.”
Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar added in statement: “This eye-watering price hike risks plunging millions of people into fuel poverty.
“This is a national emergency and our governments have a moral duty to act.
Ofgem has confirmed an 80.06 percent rise in the cap from October
Andrew Matthews
“While energy giants are posting record profits, people are facing soaring bills. That’s why we need a windfall tax to put money in the pockets of consumers.
“Across the UK we need an energy price freeze now to help millions of households.
“And here in Scotland we need an emergency cost of living act to freeze rents, cut the cost of commuting and support businesses.”
Chancellor Nadhim Zahawi said the increase in the energy price cap would cause “stress and anxiety” for people but that the Government was working to develop more options to support households.
“I know the energy price cap announcement this morning will cause stress and anxiety for many people, but help is coming with £400 off energy bills for all, the second instalment of a £650 payment for vulnerable households, and £300 for all pensioners,” he said.
“While Putin is driving up energy prices in revenge for our support of Ukraine’s brave struggle for freedom, I am working flat out to develop options for further support.
“This will mean the incoming prime minister can hit the ground running and deliver support to those who need it most, as soon as possible.”
While Labour shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves said: “This is incredibly worrying and will strike fear in the heart of many families.
“We cannot wait any longer to act. This is a national emergency.
“The Tories must freeze energy bills now so households don’t pay a penny more in winter,” she tweeted.