Tue, 01 Apr 2025

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 Dry cleaner in a spin over energy cost unfairness

Small businesses in north Wales believe it's "unfair" to have the highest energy charges in the UK.

* Businesses in north Wales and Merseyside face higher energy bills due to third-party charges, which make up 60% of a business's electricity bill.
* Small businesses in these regions can expect to pay £13,000 more per year than the UK average, and £19,000 more than London.
* Mike Jones, owner of Borras Dry Cleaners, says his business is being "penalised" by higher charges, which will affect already low profit margins.
* Third-party charges differ from region to region, leading to stark regional disparities in electricity costs for SMEs (small and medium-sized enterprises).
* 81% of UK businesses expect to raise prices due to higher energy bills from this month.
* Energy bill forecaster Cornwall Insight advises businesses to review their energy strategies, explore switching opportunities, and consider efficiency measures to ease rising costs.
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