Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, if he will make an assessment of the potential impact of increases in electricity standing charges on (a) charities and (b) businesses in Aberconwy constituency; and whether he is taking steps to help reduce electricity standing charges.

The setting of the standing charge is a commercial matter for individual suppliers.

However, Ofgem has launched a wider review into the non-domestic market. Ofgem has recently issued a Request-for-Information (RFI) to gather evidence on suppliers' deemed rates charges, ensuring they follow rules so as not to charge unduly onerous rates.

A new Energy Bill Discount Scheme will run from April 2023 until March 2024, and will provide a discount to eligible non-domestic customers. This scheme will support non-domestic customers while also limiting taxpayer’s exposure to volatile energy markets.