Northern Ireland’s largest electricity supplier, Power NI, is set to decrease its tariff by 14.2 per cent, effective from January 1 for more than 473,000 households.

This price reduction comes into effect at the same time as the Energy Price Guarantee (EPG) rate for electricity changes to a discount of 13.6p/kWh (previously 19.9p/kWh).

This means that the typical credit bill will remain the same amount as it currently does, around £847 a year, and customers with a prepayment meter will also see their costs remain the same, at around £826 a year.

Raymond Gormley, Head of Energy Policy at the Consumer Council said: “It is welcome news that Power NI have announced a much-needed price reduction for its customers; however, the fact that it is happening at the same time as changes are being made to the EPG Scheme means that consumers won’t see a difference in their bills.

“We know that even with the Power NI tariff reduction, and the EPG being rolled out, that so many consumers in Northern Ireland are still really worried about their bills.

“We urge anyone who is struggling to pay their energy bills or to top-up their meters to contact their supplier directly for help and support.”

He continued: “The Consumer Council, working together with the Utility Regulator and energy suppliers, have co-designed a new energy charter which sees gas and electricity suppliers come together to provide households with extra support this winter.

“In signing up to the charter, suppliers have agreed to contribute to a hardship fund to help consumers financially, and to implement a range of additional measures to help consumers who are struggling with their energy bills.”

The Consumer Council is currently running its ‘save money and energy campaign’ which sets out support and advice to help households save money on their bills this winter by reducing their energy usage through adopting energy efficiency measures.

The advice and guidance, including an overview of all financial help, grants, and schemes that are currently available to consumers, is available at www.consumercouncil.org.uk/costofliving/energy.

Consumers can get in touch with the Consumer Council for free independent advice by calling Freephone 0800 121 6022, or by emailing contact@consumercouncil.org.uk.