12 September 2008
The government's £1 billion home energy saving programme is "too little too late" to help those facing fuel poverty this winter, it has been claimed. According to energywatch, the plans lack the sense of urgency that is needed at a time of rapidly rising gas and electricity prices. The organisation's Chief Executive Allan Asher said there are several elements of the package that are "sensible and welcome". However, he insisted these are "sadly overshadowed by what is lacking", for example action on prepayment meter charges and social tariffs. "The Government has done little to bring immediate and much needed relief to consumers who will not afford the cost of keeping warm this winter," he remarked. According to ministers the deal, which includes plans to insulate all British homes by 2020, will save households £300 a year on their gas and electricity bills. It comes after all six of the country's major energy provider put up their prices for the second time this year.
© 2008 Adfero Ltd
Content for the uSwitch.com market news service is provided by a third party, Adfero Ltd. Whilst uSwitch.com makes reasonable efforts to check the reliability of this content, uSwitch.com does not guarantee the accuracy thereof or endorse the views or opinions given by Adfero Ltd, unless expressly stated otherwise.