More than 2000 people sign Inverness Courier petition demanding UK government ends unfair higher electricity charges in the Highlands and Islands where rates of fuel poverty are highest in Scotland
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More than 2000 people have now added their names to the Courier’s petition demanding an immediate end to unfair higher electricity charges in the Highlands and Islands.
Launched as part of our End The Chill campaign to highlight the region’s deepening fuel poverty crisis, the petition calls on the UK government to create a level pricing playing field.
Although the region generates more renewable electricity than it needs, consumers across the north of Scotland are charged the highest unit price in the UK because of outdated calculations.
In addition, energy bills are set to rise further when the new price cap comes into effect next month.
Already, 33 per cent of all households in the Highlands live in fuel poverty – one of the worst affected regions in Scotland – and there are concerns that figure will rise, especially as many rely on electricity because they do not have access to mains gas which is four times cheaper.
The Courier’s petition has gained support from across the political spectrum while people have been adding their comments as well as their signatures.
One supporter, Sandy Patience, said it was not before time the “scandal” was binned.
“Great petition to raise awareness from the Courier,” he said.
“Onwards and upwards to your cause.” Another supporter said: “It will be the low income and most vulnerable that will be affected such as children and old people.
“Rising fuel costs are impossible to keep up with for the majority of people.
“Having to choose between food and warmth isn’t acceptable on any level.”
Jean Ward agreed. “Fuel poverty in such a wealthy country is a disgrace,” she said.
Karen Newman, of Laide, generates her own electricity.
“I pay more in my bills but I export solar generated electricity – so I’m charged doing my bit,” she said.
Others supporting the petition include Highland MPs Drew Hendry and Ian Blackford.
It can be found at www.change.org/endunfair-electricity-charges
Support grows for Inverness Courier petition
