Firmus gas prices to increase by 33% in greater Belfast
The company apologised for the increase but said it was an unavoidable consequence of surging global gas prices.
Last updated 29th Sep 2021
Customers of Firmus Energy in Belfast are set for a bill increase of almost a third.
Tariffs in the greater Belfast area will rise by 32.98% on October 22, a move that will add £3.51 per week to the average household bill.
Firmus's Greater Belfast Network area covers Belfast, Lisburn, Bangor, Holywood, Donaghadee, Larne, Groomsport, Millisle, Newtownards, Carryduff, Comber, Newtownabbey, Carrickfergus and East Down.
Michael Scott, the Managing Director of Firmus Energy, apologised for the increase, which have risen by 200% since April, but said it was “unavoidable”.
He said: “We are very sorry that we have to make this announcement to our customers in the greater Belfast area.
"However, given the huge increases in the cost of purchasing natural gas on the global markets, which have been well publicised in recent weeks, it is simply unavoidable, as these costs are totally beyond our control.
“With the world starting to reopen again, following the Covid-19 restrictions, this is leading to increased demand for natural gas and that has been driving the prices up.
“We will continue to monitor and review our tariffs to ensure customers are getting the best prices possible.
“Any increase is never welcome, and we know this will come at a particularly difficult time for many.
“We are fully committed to working with consumer bodies to best support our customers, especially in the forthcoming winter months.''
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