Citizens Advice responds to National Grid report on network balancing costs
Responding to a National Grid report on network balancing costs, Gillian Cooper, Head of Energy Policy of Citizens Advice, said:
“In the middle of a cost-of-living crisis, it’s totally unacceptable for energy generators to be making excess profits off people’s bills.
“This report outlines important measures that could help. But now words need to turn into action.
“Ofgem must close any loopholes allowing poor practice to take place. The regulator has to ensure generators are playing fair, so that families aren’t left to pick up yet another bill.”
Background
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Balancing costs are costs created when National Grid has to buy additional energy from generators. This might happen due to adverse weather conditions or if a power generator fails.
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Balancing costs are added to people’s bills via the price cap and higher wholesale energy prices
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Balancing costs have risen significantly over the last two years from £1.3bn in 2019-20 to £3.1bn in 2021-22
Notes to editors
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