Firmus Energy cuts Belfast-area gas prices by 8.5%, saving about £107 a year
Greater Belfast network tariff reduced by 8.5%; follows near-8% cut in Ten Towns
Firmus Energy will cut its gas prices by 8.5% for all domestic customers in the Greater Belfast Network, with the reduction taking effect on 1 November. On average, it will lower annual bills by about £107 for roughly 42,000 customers, the company said.
The move comes after an earlier announcement of an almost 8% price decrease for customers in the Ten Towns area, which is due to take effect next month.
Firmus supplies natural gas to more than 113,000 customers across Northern Ireland. The Greater Belfast Network area is not subject to a price-review process by the Utility Regulator. The area covers Belfast, Lisburn, Bangor, Holywood, Donaghadee, Larne, Groomsport, Millisle, Newtownards, Carryduff, Comber, Newtownabbey, Carrickfergus, and parts of east Down.
The Ten Towns area includes Antrim, Armagh, Banbridge, Ballymena, Coleraine, Craigavon, Newry, Londonderry and more than 25 other towns and villages in the surrounding area.
'Savings are being passed on to customers whenever possible,' said Ryan Miskimmin, Firmus Sales Director. 'This reduction will put money back into the pockets of thousands of customers. As we head into the colder months, we know that these significant savings, coupled with the constant heat and instant hot water that natural gas provides, will be welcomed by customers in the Greater Belfast Network area.'
Raymond Gormley, head of energy policy at the Consumer Council, said tariff decreases are 'very welcome news as they indicate a downward trend in wholesale energy prices'. 'However, energy prices are still well above pre-pandemic levels, and we urge anyone who is struggling to pay their energy bills or top-up their meters to contact their supplier directly. Suppliers have told us that they are keen to provide help and support, but the onus is on customers to engage in the first instance,' he added.