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Inverness
Thursday, February 13, 2025

Call for Action on Energy Bills as Families Struggle to Cope

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The SNP has called on the UK Labour government to fulfil its pledge to lower energy bills, as families across the country grapple with rising costs during Energy Savers Week 2025.

This annual initiative, spearheaded by the Energy Saving Trust, aims to help households reduce energy consumption and save money.

However, it coincides with another hike in energy prices, leaving many feeling the pinch.

Ofgem’s energy price cap rose to £1,738 on 1 January 2025 and is expected to climb again in April.

This comes despite Labour’s election promise last year to slash energy bills by £300, a commitment that remains unfulfilled.

Adding to the strain, Labour’s decision to cut vital support such as the Winter Fuel Payment has left over 900,000 Scottish pensioners facing a harsher winter, compounded by the broader impact of rising inflation.

Kevin Stewart MSP expressed his frustration, stating:

“These winter months are already challenging for families, and Labour’s broken promises make it even worse.”

He continued:

“Energy Savers Week offers valuable advice, but the fact it’s needed highlights the UK government’s failure to act.

“Families across Scotland are already doing all they can to cut costs, yet it’s still not enough.”

The Scottish Government has stepped in to mitigate some of the damage.

From next year, pensioners will benefit from a universal Winter Heating Payment, and plans for a social energy tariff are under consideration.

However, Kevin Stewart emphasised that Scotland’s ability to respond is limited by Westminster control.

“If Keir Starmer’s government cannot deliver for Scotland, then energy powers should be devolved to Holyrood.

“It’s time to let Scotland make the decisions that are best for our people,” Stewart added.

The SNP’s call for action underscores a growing frustration with the UK government’s handling of energy policy.

Many argue that more decisive action is needed to alleviate the burden on households and deliver on long-overdue promises.

Energy Savers Week provides practical tips for reducing energy use, but as costs soar, such measures feel like a drop in the ocean for families struggling to make ends meet.

The question remains whether the Labour government will rise to the challenge or leave Scotland to weather another winter of rising costs and broken commitments.

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