Centrica announces 9.2 per cent jump in household energy prices

17th Oct 2013 10:26

British Gas owner Centrica has unveiled an average 9.2 per cent leap in household energy prices. As of November 23rd, gas bills will jump 8.4%, while electricity will rocket 10.4%. The changes will add about £2 a week to the average dual fuel bill. The group blamed the increasing cost of buying energy in global markets, delivering gas and electricity to the home, and the government's social and environmental programmes, which are paid for through customers' bills. Centrica said it recognised that customers would be concerned by the announcement and stressed it would do its "utmost to help people keep bills under control". Ian Peters, Managing Director of British Gas Residential Energy, continued: "I know these are difficult times for many customers and totally understand the frustration that so many household costs keep on rising when incomes aren't keeping pace. We haven't taken this decision lightly, but what's pushing up energy prices at the moment are costs that are not all directly under our control [...]"Energy efficiency is the best way to keep bills down [...] A price rise doesn't necessarily mean energy bills have to go up too. The amount you pay depends not just on the price, but on how much gas and electricity you use. Energy efficiency is making a real difference. We've already provided three million customers with insulation, help and advice in managing their bills and keeping their homes warmer for less." Shares in the FTSE 100 group climbed 0.51% to 367.27p. NR