Flintshire Council housing residents with communal heating systems face rise in heating costs

The escalating energy costs in the UK are set to have a significant impact on Flintshire County Council residents living in properties with communal heating systems.

The Council, operating eight communal heating schemes, is grappling with the fallout of a surge in national gas prices.

For several years, the residents have enjoyed lower energy costs, thanks to the Council’s industrial and commercial contract rate.

However, the reality of the energy market’s volatility has now come knocking at their doors. With the renewal of the Council’s contract, the gas tariff has seen a considerable increase, in line with national market rates, leading to an inevitable hike in heating charges for the residents.

Vicky Clark, Chief Officer for Housing and Communities at the Council, acknowledged the harsh reality of this situation.

“We understand the impact the rising cost of energy has on everyone in our community,”

Ms Clark said. “We have protected residents living in communal complexes from substantial price increases over the last five years. However, circumstances beyond our control have led to this difficult decision.”

The Council has committed to supporting its residents during this transition, helping them access any support or funding available.

The proposed heating charges are set to take effect from 31 July 2023, subject to approval at the Communities and Housing Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting on 14 June 2023.

Councillor Sean Bibby, Cabinet Member for Housing and Regeneration, regretfully acknowledged the inevitability of the increase. “The significant increase in gas charges means residents living in communal complexes will unfortunately see an increase in their heating charges this year.”

“This increase is regrettable but unavoidable as the Council must recharge costs in line with our tariff increases,” said Mr Bibby.

The Council now faces the challenge of balancing fiscal responsibilities against the backdrop of a strained energy market while prioritising the welfare of its community members.

As such, Flintshire County Council’s proposed heating charges have become a microcosm of the broader national narrative on energy costs.