Householders’ pockets are taking a double hit this month; not only are pay packets feeling a nice pinch as a result of budget measures coming into full effect but the continuing rise in fuel prices are noticeably pushing up the cost of living.
The latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) from the CSO show that the cost of housing, water, electricity, gas and other fuels rose by nearly 10% in the year to December, compared to an annual drop of 21.2% a year earlier.
Home heating oil was the main offender rising by 33.9% during 2010 and rising by 11% in December alone. Householders needing a refill after the recent and lengthy cold spell will now face forking out close to €790 for 1,000 litres compared with around €550 a year ago. Independent website Cheapestoil.ie said home oil prices were at their highest in over two years and, since the introduction of the carbon tax last year, consumers here now paid three times more tax on their oil than people living in the North.
Have Your Say:
- Home Energy: Is the price of home heating too high?
- Should we invest in more energy efficient and cost effect methods other than oil in order to heat our homes?
[poll id="4"]
