Responding to concerns raised about the scale of the electricity price increase, including those expressed by the ETI Committee members, the minister said: “I recognise that the recent price increases were of a scale that has caused real anxiety amongst consumers. In the interests of maintaining public confidence I wrote to the Utility Regulator suggesting that they bring forward proposals for an independent review of the electricity price setting process.”
Arlene Foster continued: “The Utility Regulator has proposed terms of reference for this review which I believe are sufficiently wide to address the major concerns that have been expressed. I am also satisfied that appointing Douglas McIldoon to lead the review, should inspire public confidence in the rigour and independence of the exercise.”
In conclusion the minister said: “I have urged the Utility Regulator to progress the review as a matter of urgency so that everyone can have confidence in the energy price setting process.”
Notes to Editors:
- The Northern Ireland Authority for Utility Regulation, (Utility Regulator) is a non-Ministerial Government Department responsible for regulating the electricity and gas industry and water and sewerage services in Northern Ireland.
- The Utility Regulator is accountable to the Northern Ireland Assembly through financial and annual reporting obligations.
- Media enquiries to DETI Press Office – Tel 028 9052 9297. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
