Budget Energy announces 8% price drop for electricity

This decrease will be effective from 1 December 2023 – and will save £112 for a typical customer with a standard rate credit meter and around £110 savings for a typical customer with a standard rate keypad meter.

Peter McClenaghan, Director of Infrastructure and Sustainability at the Consumer Council said: “This price decrease is welcome news for Budget Energy customers.

"We know this coming winter will be tough for many of us as cost-of-living pressures continue.

"Despite this announcement, electricity prices remain significantly higher than the pre-pandemic norm.

"Similarly, natural gas, heating oil, petrol and diesel prices all remain high.

"For these reasons we continue to advocate for further support for Northern Ireland consumers in the winter ahead.

"It is important to check if you could save money by switching supplier, tariff or even the way you pay your bill.

"The difference between the highest and lowest tariffs on the market are currently over £450.

“To help do this, we encourage consumers to use the free online Energy Price Comparison Tool which allows you to see all the deals that are available across Northern Ireland compared to what you are currently paying.

"Finally, we urge anyone who is struggling to pay their energy bills or top-up their meters to contact their supplier directly for help and support,” he added.

The Consumer Council’s website also contains information on energy efficiency, and an overview of all financial help, grants and schemes available to help with high energy costs: www.consumercouncil.org.uk/costofliving/energy