Increase in gas and ESB costs criticised by consumers

A RISE in gas and electricity bills couldn’t come at a worse time, consumer groups warned yesterday, after the announcement that Bord Gáis was set to apply for an increase.

The Consumers Association of Ireland (CAI) warned yesterday that a pattern of rising costs for essential items, such as lighting and heating, will have a negative impact on people's spending.

Bord Gáis has applied to the Commission for Energy Regulation for a large increase in transmission charges, which applies to its main industrial users. The company has sought an 18% rise which, if granted, is likely to be passed on to its business customers.