BILLS WARNING
Push for ‘clean energy’ expected to cause rise in household bills, Ed Miliband hints
The “rush” to wean the electricity system off fossil fuels could cause short-term hardship
HOUSEHOLDS face paying higher energy bills before they drop in price in the drive for clean energy, Ed Miliband has hinted.
The Energy Secretary says consumers will see costs eventually fall but didn’t rule out costs rising in the short-term in the push to decarbonise the grid by 2030.
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But the Tories say the “rush” to wean the electricity system off fossil fuels by the end of the decade will cause more hardship for Brits.
Proposals show the government and private firms will spend £40 billion each year as part of the eco move with a pledge to bring down bills by up to £300 in five years.
He said: “I can’t guarantee what’s going to happen to bills next month, because we’re in the grip of the international fossil fuel markets.”
The Cabinet Minister also said he will be able to bypass any local opposition to build onshore wind farms - with decisions previously left to councils.
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A predicted rise in 2025 is set to mark the third consecutive hike for energy costs after Ofgem raised its price cap in October.
The energy regulator also confirmed last month the cost of yearly energy bills will rise by around £21 to £1,738 come January.
And now experts at Cornwall Insights forecast the average dual fuel bill for those not on a fixed deal will rise from £1,738 to £1,762 in April.
Analysts at the firm said "continued uncertainty" regarding the future of the Russia-Ukraine conflict could impact wholesale prices.
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