Consumers hit by energy price hike

Campaigners warned of a "hammer blow" to consumers as energy supplier EDF increased its electricity prices by 17% and gas prices by 22%. The company blamed record wholesale energy costs for the increases, which come into effect immediately. The French firm, one of Britain's biggest energy suppliers with 5.1 million customers, said typical dual fuel bills would increase by £3.97 a week - or just over £200 a year. Energy companies have been widely expected to raise utility bills this summer as wholesale prices have increased. An independent report last week commissioned by British Gas owner Centrica warned that prices could increase by 70%. British Gas said on Friday that its pricing had not changed. Eva Eisenschimmel, chief operating officer of EDF Energy customers branch, said: "Record world oil prices have continued to drive... [read full story]