The Footprint Trust has for the first time heavily criticised the government over its lack of action over the pending massive energy bill rises.
Consumers on the Isle of Wight will be faced with energy bill rises of up to £600 from April this year.
Biggest price hike for decades
Martin Lewis speaking recently on ITV’s Good Morning Britain programme highlighted the forthcoming price hike, the biggest jump for decades caused by global wholesale price increases.
The situation has led to over twenty energy companies going bust.
Government action needed
There have been calls for the government to soften the blow for householders by cutting VAT and government enforced environmental and social obligation costs charged on domestic bills, which make up around fifteen percent of the average bill.
Hundreds sitting in cold damp homes
Speaking on behalf of the Trust their General Manger and senior energy officer said,
“The government is not to blame for the international crises, but it does have time to act now, to prevent thousands of Islanders falling into fuel poverty. Hundreds of people here are already turning off the heat and sitting in cold damp homes, this will turn into thousands next winter, unless action is taken now.
“The government has a number of options, which could include increasing the Warm Home Discount and suspending VAT on energy bills, it could also choose to remove or reduce the green social tariff and to fund such measures out of general taxation.
“In the meantime, householders need to insulate their homes, and replace old inefficient appliances and get into the habit to turning things off.
“We urge anyone who is concerned to contact us on 822282 for guidance and help.”
Read the Martin Lewis interview via the Manchester Evening News.
News shared by Ray on behalf of The Footprint Trust. Ed
