Firmus Energy is implementing price increases for its customers in Northern Ireland, citing rising global gas costs. Beginning October 1, customers in the Ten Towns area will see an 8.98% increase, while those in Greater Belfast will experience a 12.5% rise effective October 8.
For households in the Ten Towns region, which comprises approximately 77,000 homes and small businesses across numerous towns and villages, the price adjustment will add an estimated £7 to average monthly bills. In Greater Belfast, around 54,000 customers can expect an increase of approximately £12 per month.
Sharleen Winning, head of regulation at Firmus Energy, stated that the decision was unavoidable due to the elevated cost of gas on international markets, influenced by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. "Unfortunately this has left us with no option other than to increase our tariffs," Winning said, adding that the company had delayed the increase in hopes of a market stabilization. She expressed a desire to reduce tariffs in the future when global market conditions permit.
This announcement follows a similar price hike by SSE Airtricity, Northern Ireland's largest natural gas provider, which will increase its prices by nearly 19% starting October 1 for its 200,000 customers.
The Utility Regulator acknowledged the concern such increases will cause for households and businesses, particularly those already struggling with the cost of living. A spokesperson advised customers worried about their energy bills to contact their supplier promptly to discuss available payment options and support.