Energy executive makes "inappropriate" comments

Article date : 10/09/2008

An energy company has apologised for comments made by one of its executives at an electricity and gas watchdog seminar.

When asked about rising fuel costs and home central heating bills, Mark Owen-Lloyd, from E.ON, said it would mean "more money for us".

"Fuel poverty is no laughing matter. One in four older people struggle to pay their fuel bills and millions may be forced to choose between heating and eating this winter," a Help the Aged spokesman says.

The comments came as the government announces today (September 11th) a package to help households tackle fuel poverty.

It is thought the £1 billion deal will include a 30 per cent increase in contributions towards energy-saving schemes to help poorer homes.

Grants to insulate lofts, to install double glazing and to provide modern central heating systems, including energy-efficient condensing boilers, are expected to be announced.

The energy company apologises for Mr Owen-Lloyd's "inappropriate" comments and warns that he could face disciplinary action.

The Energy Saving Trust says there are grants to help you install an energy-efficient central heating system for your home and fitting a condensing boiler with heating controls could save you £270 a year on your bills.

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