The cost of water is rising in the Isle of Man.
The Manx Utilities authority has announced that it is to rise by 6.4 per cent, in line with one measure of inflation, the Retail Prices Index.
The measure of inflation that the Manx government now publicises is the Consumer Prices Index, which is often lower than RPI and currently stands at 1.6 per cent.
Manx Utilities has published its annual statutory notice to customers providing information on electricity pricing and water and sewerage rates to come into effect from April 1.
There will be no increase in electricity prices for 2017-18 and charges will be unchanged as follows:
Electricity charges for domestic users and commercial users will be frozen at 16p per unit.
The standing charge will remain unchanged at 19.5p per day for both domestic and commercial customers.
Tariffs for industrial customers will be frozen at the current rate for the next 12 months.
The emergency credit available for prepayment customers will increase from £3 to £6.
The 6.4 per cent increase in the water rate will take it to 341.8p in the pound
The MUA confirmed the increase of the sewerage rate at 98p in the pound, as approved by Tynwald in December 2016.
There will be no increase in charges for septic tank emptying.
The chairman of Manx Utilities, Dr Alex Allinson MHK said: ’I am pleased to announce that electricity prices will be frozen for the coming financial year.
’Manx Utilities is committed to delivering high quality and dependable essential services for the Isle of Man. We are very aware of the impact our charges have on the people of this island and the local economy and have made the decision to freeze electricity prices this year whilst only increasing the water rate by inflation.
’We welcome the commitment in the Programme for Government for an independent review of Manx Utilities’ financial position to assess the ongoing stability of our long-term financial plan and look forward to working with Tynwald to ensure the future growth and prosperity of the island.
’In addition to freezing electricity prices, I can announce the emergency credit facility available for prepayment customers is being increased from £3 to £6.
’The emergency credit facility assists customers in circumstances when they are unable to charge their keys and we hope this move will help those struggling to make ends meet.’