As nights draw in and costs go up
THE fact that crowds of islanders would choose to spend a sunny Saturday morning indoors getting money saving tips from Guernsey Electricity perhaps reveals how worried people are about the cost of living this winter.
Electricity standing charges and usage charges both went up in July, but it may not be until the autumn when islanders start to feel the pinch.
Local inflation is still riding high at 5.3% and there have been increases in water and gas bills already this year, so everyone needs to find more money to pay their bills.
That also includes GE. The utility is coping with vulnerable infrastructure – vividly displayed on Saturday by an elderly cable on display, recently removed from the Arcade.
Money needs to found for that work to keep the island’s lights on. The utility has been honest that electricity prices need to go up to pay for for this, but there another spectre on the horizon.
About 90% of the island’s power come from France.
GEL’s forward pricing contracts have protected islanders from the sharp price rises seen in the UK. But as these have started to expire, the cost of importing has gone up.
GE spent months preparing for Saturday's event and staff were clearly wanting to help islanders.
But as the nights get colder and darker, it is likely to be a difficult winter for many.