Residents of the Bluebell Meadows and St Georges Gate housing developments in Newport are facing a sharp increase in their energy bills this Winter, with residents now set to pay almost 3x times more than other homeowners. Well amid a cost of living crisis, those living in the Newport-based development have collectively voiced concerns at the recently announced news fearing that some families won’t be able to heat their homes during the coldest period of the year. The latest increase has seen the kilowatt unit rate (kWh) rise from 9.3p to 14p and the standing charge rate rise from 72p to 91p per day – more than 3 times The Office of Gas and Electricity Market (Ofgem) daily price cap. It is the 2nd time in 12 months that prices have increased. Having spoken to Pan Management, the company that looks after the development, residents have been told that increases to tariffs are necessary to cover costs of the woodchips/gas and that Barratts – who built the homes in the area – are withdrawing subsidies. As the management company isn’t governed by Ofgem homeowners are not protected from mammoth price hikes and can do nothing but pay them. Locals are unable to switch energy suppliers, with some reporting monthly bills of almost 3x more than before this latest increase – a kick in the teeth for many as purchasers were told how economical the houses are to run. By way of comparison, those paying a standard variable tariff with British Gas are paying a standing charge of 29.6p per day and a kilowatt-hour rate of 6.89p. Both of these are in line with Ofgem regulations. As well as the increase in tariff and standing charge, residents also have to pay a yearly estate charge to Pan Management. 1 concerned resident has told Island Echo:
“We anticipate increases, but now people can’t even reduce their usage as they’ve been crippled with multiple rises. “Residents are now facing fuel poverty with many admitting they are not sure how’re they find the means to warm their houses.”
Island Echo has approached ERMC Estates for comment
