Energy regulator summoned to explain price rises

THE Energy regulator has been called to appear before an Oireachtas committee next month to explain big increases in energy prices over recent months.

Fine Gael has blamed the Commission for Energy Regulation for a 17.5% rise in electricity prices, which came into effect at the start of this month. Gas prices will rise by 20% from the start of September.

Consumer groups and business representatives were critical of both increases which the regulator said were “regrettable, but inevitable” because of the ongoing volatility in the international energy market.