Manx Utilities has confirmed an increase of the island’s electricity, water and waste-water charges, which was approved in Tynwald today.

The changes are expected to total an additional £110 average annual increase per household.

The changes are expected to come into effect on April 1, 2024.

The electricity rate (standard domestic rate tariff) will increase from 30.0 to 31.7 pence per unit, meaning domestic customers can expect to see an average annual increase of £70.

The average annual increase for domestic water customers is expected to be £21 per household. 

Domestic customers can also expect to see an average increase of £19 per household for sewerage.

The price of electricity in the Isle of Man will still be comparable to those in the United Kingdom.

The wholesale cost of gas has come down from its record highs, costs remain more than double the level before the energy crisis began in 2021.

A spokesperson for Manx Utilities said: 'This also impacts upon the cost of providing water and waste water services to customers due to the consumption of electricity to operate treatment works and pumping stations.

Chair of Manx Utilities, John Wannenburgh MHK, said: 'Manx Utilities’ Board have been very aware that increases in its tariffs and charges have put pressure on the finances of its customers, and has worked hard to limit expected increases for 2024 to inflationary levels. We will be undertaking a pricing strategy review during 2024 and hope that wholesale energy markets will continue to stabilise in the coming months and reduce the energy cost pressures on Manx Utilities and our customers.

'We would always recommend that customers who are concerned about their electricity bills get in touch with the customer care team, who are best placed to offer advice. Each enquiry is treated confidentially and the support provided is specific to each situation. There are many steps that can and are taken to avoid the worries of a disconnection, so much so that the occurrence is extremely rare. Manx Utilities ultimately wishes to ensure that their customers have access to their essential utility services as and when they need them.'

Customers who are concerned with their ability to pay for their electricity can contact Manx Utilities’ customer care team on [email protected], calling 687675 or using the Freephone telephone number 0808 1624 115. For contact in person, the customer care team can also be accessed via Manx Utilities’ Headquarters, in the Isle of Man Business Park.