SSE Airtricity, Northern Ireland's largest natural gas provider, will increase prices by almost 19% for its 200,000 domestic and small business customers, effective October 1. This change will result in an annual gas bill increase of approximately £172 for a typical household in the greater Belfast and west gas network areas.
The company attributed the price hike to significant volatility in global energy markets and rising wholesale gas prices, which have reportedly doubled since the onset of the conflict in the Middle East. Officials noted that this increase comes amid ongoing cost pressures for households and businesses.
Customers should prepare for increased energy costs, impacting budgets significantly. Watch for potential government responses or support measures aimed at mitigating the financial strain on households and small businesses as the energy crisis unfolds.