Npower added its voice to calls on government to cap the cost of replacement scheme the Energy Company Obligation (Eco). The Department of Energy and Climate Change expects Eco to cost the industry £1.3 billion, however Npower warned Cert and Cesp had shown costs could significantly exceed forecasts.
Simon Stacey, managing director of Npower energy services, said: “I am very concerned about the impact on customers’ bills. To ensure that we do not have an open-ended commitment which could significantly increase bills, we are calling on DECC (Department of Energy and Climate Change) to cap the cost of Eco at £1.3bn.
“Energy efficiency is fundamental in reducing household energy bills. It shouldn’t add to them. Any scheme should be constructed to deliver maximum benefit with minimum cost to the consumer.”
The industry particularly struggled to identify vulnerable customers in the “super priority group”. Scottish Power and British Gas could yet face hefty penalties from the regulator if they cannot show they have met every sub-target.