Gas supplier Firmus energy has announced its prices will increase by 16%, citing sustained increases in global wholesale gas price.
The company, Northern Ireland’s largest gas supplier, confirmed its its natural gas tariff in the Ten Towns Network area would rise by 16.31% from May 3.
Today’s announced change in tariffs will mean an extra £3.86 per week on to the average household bill in the Ten Towns area, which includes Armagh, Banbridge, Craigavon and Newry.
Niall Martindale, Interim Managing Director of firmus energy, said: “Energy markets remain at very high levels having been adversely affected by the war in Ukraine. This has been reflected across the board with increases in the costs of Home Heating Oil, coal, electricity, and gas.
“Regrettably the sheer scale of the increased costs involved give us no alternative but to pass on to our customers the higher costs we are having to pay for the gas we supply. Firmus energy is committed to reducing its tariff for all customers as soon as the market crisis subsides and enables us to do so.”
Outlining what the company is doing to help customers, Niall Martindale continued “We understand it is a tough time for many of our customers and we have been providing financial and administrative support to the Department for Communities scheme to help those most in need.
“If any of our customers need further support, I would urge them to call our dedicated local team to see if we can help.”
Customers seeking advice on natural gas bills or direct debits should contact the Customer Services team on 0330 024 9000 or info@firmusenergy.co.uk.
Telephone lines are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. For free and independent advice on how to save energy please contact NI Energy Advice Line on 0800 111 4455.
