Government rejects additional assistance for energy bills
Despite persistently high energy costs, the government has dismissed the possibility of providing further assistance to households struggling with their bills.
On Thursday, regulator Ofgem is expected to announce a significant reduction in the price cap, which limits the amount energy suppliers can charge per unit.
This cap is projected to decrease to around £2,000, nearly double its initial amount when introduced in 2019.
Environment Secretary Therese Coffey stressed on BBC that the government’s main focus is to enhance the UK’s domestic energy sources, including nuclear power plants and offshore wind farms.
Coffey noted that Chancellor Jeremy Hunt had already outlined plans several months ago to aid households.
Under the government’s Energy Price Guarantee Scheme, implemented since October, household energy bills have been capped at £2,500.
Additionally, all homes received a £400 winter payment from the government. However, this scheme is set to end in June, and with the anticipated price cap set by Ofgem expected to be lower than the guarantee scheme, bills will no longer be subsidised.
Coffey acknowledged the limited resources available for every bill payer, stating, “The Chancellor set out our plans several months ago on what was happening there and I am conscious there is only a limited amount going to every bill payer.”
However, she emphasised the importance of establishing a reliable domestic energy supply, reducing reliance on global gas prices.