Power NI and Firmus customers to face energy bill rises from July 1

Power NI and Firmus Energy have announced tariff increases that will take effect on July 1, 2026. Power NI said it will raise its electricity unit price by 6.2%, while Firmus confirmed a 15.65% increase to its Ten Towns natural gas tariff.

According to company statements and the Utility Regulator review, the Power NI adjustment equates to roughly an additional £64 per year for the average household, or about £5 per month, and will affect around 521,333 domestic electricity customers. The Firmus Ten Towns increase is expected to add about £132 per year for a typical household and impacts roughly 75,756 gas customers in that network. Suppliers cited sustained rises in global wholesale gas and energy prices, together with higher network and market-related charges, as the primary drivers.

The changes were confirmed after a tariff review by the Utility Regulator (Northern Ireland’s energy regulator), which said rising wholesale costs driven by geopolitical tensions have pushed prices upward. The regulator noted that, despite the increases, regulated domestic energy prices in Northern Ireland remain below average levels in the Republic of Ireland and comparable parts of Great Britain, but remain well above pre-2022 levels. Consumer groups have urged those concerned about payment difficulties to contact suppliers and seek available support.

In the broader context, suppliers and the regulator linked recent price pressure to the conflict in the Middle East and related disruption in global energy markets. The Utility Regulator highlighted volatility in wholesale gas — which previously peaked at substantially higher levels — and warned that continued geopolitical strain could result in further tariff reviews, including a scheduled review for SSE Airtricity’s Greater Belfast gas tariff later in the year.

Market commentators say household budgets will feel renewed pressure, particularly if international wholesale prices remain elevated. Because the regulator’s regime passes through underlying wholesale and network costs, sustained global price moves are likely to translate into further domestic tariff adjustments. Analysts and consumer advocates recommend that customers review payment options, consider available assistance schemes and engage with suppliers to manage the short-term impact.