Shield poorer households from costs of clean energy - Ofgem

Britain's clean energy future risks creating "winners and losers" if lower-income households are not shielded from higher bills, the chief executive of Ofgem said yesterday.

- Jillian Ambrose

Jonathan Brearley said a systematic approach to sharing the rising costs of the government's green power ambitions was needed to avoid poorer households facing soaring monthly payments.

The regulator has launched a root-and-branch review into how the costs of upgrading the energy networks can be recovered through home energy bills in a way that is fairer.

The review could include plans to cut standing charges for lower-income households while wealthier customers pay more.