In the wake of the news that energy companies are hiking prices, despite wholesale energy being relatively cheap, this message from the council could be very welcome indeed.
We have found out that Preston could become one of the first councils in the country to offer a scheme which will allow all city residents to buy cheaper gas and electricity.
Plans have been tabled by Preston Town Hall bosses to take advantage of an energy bulk-purchasing scheme. They want to encourage residents and businesses across the city to get involved in a collective scheme that could enable them to receive their energy at a discount price.
This would involve the council using a separate company as a broker to negotiate with providers to buy gas and electric supplies. A great idea.
Councillor Robert Boswell, Cabinet member for community and environment said; ‘Rising energy costs are becoming an issue of greater concern to both Prestons’ communities and businesses. It’s in the City Council’s interest to consider whether and how best it can help its residents and businesses to benefit from cheaper energy bills and to help combat fuel poverty’.
We will keep a close eye on this story to what if anything comes from the idea.