Central London residents on communal heating systems to see energy bills increase

By Adrian Zorzut, Local Democracy Reporter

Residents in a central London borough could pay £500 more for their gas and heating bills this year.

From April 1, Westminster residents will fork out 6.2p per kilowatt hour (kWh) if they receive heating from a communal heating system – up from 2.2p, the council revealed.

Analysis using Ofgem estimates found the average bill will jump to £744, from a previous £264.

The central London council is also launching a rent relief fund to help social housing tenants struggling with rent payments during the cost-of-living crisis.

Westminster councillor Liza Begum said: “We know that housing tenants and leaseholders are finding it tough to make ends meet with the rising cost of living.

“The council is doing everything we can to give direct financial support and take the pressure off those who are struggling.

“The £1million Rent Support Fund will provide a lifeline to those most in need of help and will cushion the effect of upcoming rent rises.

“Increased energy prices can also be a real worry, but the council has worked hard to secure the best rate for our tenants and leaseholders and communal energy systems are still cheaper for residents than individual boilers.

“Our housing services team are available to provide support and advice to anyone who is finding it difficult to meet the increased costs.”

(Picture: Wikimedia Commons/David Hunt)