Across the UK, energy prices are increasing more than ever, however, when it comes to each nation, Scotland has higher energy bills than the rest. According to data from comparethemarket.com and the SNP, in Scotland, the average home is paying £1,651 per year for energy.
In comparison, the average price in Wales is £1,525 and in England, the average price is £1,554. One of the main reasons for this difference is due to transmission charges in Scotland that companies have to pay to gain access to the National Grid.
Just last month, to combat the soaring energy prices, the UK government announced a new £400 discount for fuel bills that aims to support the cost of living crisis that is sweeping across the UK.
However, the Scottish government aren’t satisfied with these measures and suggests that they won’t offer help to those who are the least well off and already find it extremely difficult to make ends meet.
With an abundance of resources in oil and gas and renewables, it may seem to be counterproductive that Scotland is facing the prices seen across the country. The UK government need to make the most of the vast revenue that Scotland’s oil and gas industry has to offer.
Furthermore, there have been calls to reduce the expensive transmission charges that companies face to access the National Grid in Scotland. Changes have been announced by the Chancellor, meanwhile, Scotland continues to struggle with rocketing energy bills, especially with the winter months to come.
For those that want to save energy and reduce their energy bills, a simple tip would be to calculate your energy use. To do this, you can use a free and easy tool such as this electricity usage calculator.
No matter whether you are a business or homeowner, this tool works for all to see how much energy is being used and if you can save money.
Many are now asking for independence from the UK to access the full range of powers that comes. The Westminster government has all the tools to change things, ensuring Scotland doesn’t have to pay the highest fuel bills in the country
In recent news, the UK energy regulator Ofgem has asked the Electricity System Operator (ESO) to review the current transmission charging arrangements. In February, various aspects were asked to be studied to make changes to the system.
There has been a strong push any Ofgem to build a more flexible grid. This will create more control for the consumers, helping to provide better savings for all, in addition to more regularly updated prices and improved data.
In Scotland and the rest of the UK, pressures are being placed on all households due to the rising cost of living. Measures such as the Warm Home Discount expansion by £13 million and other support systems are forecasted to help many.
With the rising energy price cap estimated to soar to up to £2,000, time will tell whether these measures will be enough.