Ulster Unionist Economy Spokesperson, Sandra Overend, has said that the significant 18% increase in electricity prices could not have come at a worse time and individuals and businesses who have been negatively affected by the announcement should consider shopping around.
The Mid Ulster MLA said;
‘The announcement from Power NI, who are Northern Ireland’s biggest electricity company, that they are increasing prices by 18% from July could hardly come at a worse time for hard pressed individuals, families and small businesses. I would urge them all to avail of the open competition in the electricity market and consider shopping around for the best possible deal.’
‘Only last week in the Assembly the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Investment said that electricity prices were largely outside the remit of her Department. However, security of electricity supply falls within her remit and needs to be addressed. Key actions to ensure security of supply include progress on the new North/South electricity interconnector which would help to meet future demands, and the restoration of the Moyle electricity link with Great Britain to its full capacity, which must also happen as soon as possible. These action points are important and I have been questioning the Minister, to do all in her power to expedite improvements to our security of supply, for some time.”