Kilkenny householders hit with electricity and gas price hikes from tomorrow

KILKENNY householders will be hit in the pocket from tomorrow when two energy providers hike up their prices.

Electric Ireland, the State’s largest electricity provider, and PrePayPower are set to raise prices in a move that will add up to €50 to average annual bills.

The new rises come on top of hikes last year that added an extra €100 to average household bills.

Electricity and gas suppliers are blaming increases in wholesale energy costs which they say is forcing them to pass on rises to consumers.

The company had a price freeze in place up to February.

And energy experts are warning that the global energy markets remain volatile and more price hikes for consumers cannot be ruled out.

Electric Ireland will increase electricity prices by four per cent from tomorrow. Gas prices will go up by the same percentage.