Expert views
Commentary submitted by Simon Francis in their own words.
Back to profileEnergy markets ‘in turmoil’, says Octopus Energy boss
For the 1.5m UK homes on oil heating, the crisis starts now, with the cost of refilling a tank soaring by around 50 per cent.
Energy bills forecast to rise 10% from July as Middle East war drives up prices
If these forecasts prove correct, the increase would wipe out the modest savings delivered by the Budget.
Reeves to stress commitment to end windfall tax in talks with North Sea bosses
The North Sea is declining because of the geology of an ageing basin, not because companies are paying a fair share of tax.
Spring statement reaction
Away from the hot air generated by politicians in Westminster today, households will be watching the news to see how the latest military conflict hits their energy bills.
Oil prices surge further and markets slump as Middle East war intensifies
The conflict has already started to push wholesale gas prices to levels we’ve not seen since 2023.
Oil prices jump and markets slide after strikes across Middle East
Fresh highs in wholesale gas prices underline that UK households remain dangerously exposed to volatile global markets and that the UK’s own gas is running out.
Household energy prices to fall by 7% from April 1
If the country is going to tackle energy affordability for good, this must be the start of deeper reform, not the end of the job.
British Gas profits tumble as household supply arm sees £80m warm weather hit
The firm is much more than a household supplier, with real leverage over the nation’s energy supply and security.
Deaths linked to winter weather highlighted as nation faces cold snap
Volatile gas prices, poor quality housing and a lack of adequate support have all contributed to this crisis.
Household energy bills predicted to fall by 7% in April
Households will need to keep a close eye on Ofgem’s announcement next week.
Cold weather payments made to nearly 1.5m households so far this winter
The payments should be made in advance of the cold weather, on a daily basis, so it gets to people when it is needed.
Labour should reverse ban on new oil and gas licences, Blair’s think tank says
That tax exists because companies benefited from a crisis that devastated household finances.