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Islanders protest against Guernsey Electricity price rises

Islanders have gathered outside the showroom at the power station to oppose Guernsey Electricity's fourth consecutive annual price hike.

The Guernsey Electricity showroom was closed because of the protest, but it was peaceful, despite dozens of demonstrators being there.

Myles Duquemin organised the protest after Guernsey Electricity announced an 8% increase in the unit price of electricity and a 2.5% increase in the standing charge earlier this year.

It is the fourth consecutive rise in as many years, with prices going up by 9% in 2022, 13% in 2023 and 10% in 2024.

The utility says it needs the money for investment in the distribution system as demand, and technologies, evolve.

In addition, fixed contracts with European suppliers are ending, meaning price uncertainty, and the France power cable will need to be renewed.

Mr Duquemin told Island FM everyone who turned out to the demonstration "really did Guernsey proud".

He said: "I think that we've all had enough of the amount that increases have gone up year after year, so far above inflation. It's starting to really, really, really affect our community."

He has met with Guernsey Electricity to discuss its business model, the debt it has incurred and the salaries of senior management. Both sides agreed the meeting was constructive.

The utility says anyone who has a problem paying a bill should contact them as soon as possible.

It is also arranging a series of measures to protect the less well off this winter, including payment holidays in exceptional circumstances and cover to ensure those on pre-paid meters do not get cut off.

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