Fears raised over the threat of fuel poverty
Concerns have been raised over the potential impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on fuel poverty in the region.
UK regulator Ofgem warned last week that fuel prices will rise for millions of people across the UK in April, as the price cap for default domestic energy deals is raised to cover suppliers’ extra costs.
A typical gas and electricity customer is likely to see their bill go up by £96 to £1,138 a year.
Montgomeryshire Liberal Democrat Senedd Candidate Alison Alexander and Llanfyllin Town Councillor Jane Carrington said they are concerned this will affect their constituents.
Mrs Alexander said: “The lush countryside of Powys is perhaps not the first place a visitor may associate with poverty, and yet it continues to blight our communities, often in a way that’s hidden from public view.
“This has become especially concerning throughout the duration of the Covid-19 pandemic, where many families have begun to experience significant financial problems, often for the first time.
"One of the areas this seems to be most prevalent in is that of energy costs.
“Even prior to the pandemic, a vast number struggled to afford heating and electricity.
'Staggering'
"Powys County Council’s Wellbeing Assessment in 2017 found a staggering 9,500 of the 59,600 households in Powys lived in fuel poverty.”
Last year the not-for-profit company Warm Wales was appointed to run a fuel poverty scheme in Powys.
They are now responsible for assessing applications made for energy efficiency measures including new central heating systems, heating upgrades, and ground and air source heat pumps.
Cllr Carrington added: “While these developments are putting pressure on households across the board, I’m particularly concerned about groups that could be more vulnerable to the impacts.
"People on the lowest incomes and in low-quality housing are likely to be hit the hardest.”
