165 businesses in Ceredigion are facing a huge £716,800 energy bill increase once UK Government support is slashed in April, according to new analysis.

The Welsh Liberal Democrats analysis shows that the average bill increase per business is likely to be £4,344.

According to official statistics, in Ceredigion there are 165 pubs, restaurants and cafes at risk, facing a rise in energy bills by thousands of pounds.

The Government initially capped the cost of business energy, but from April they are replacing that scheme and will instead just pay a small proportion of businesses' increased costs.

This means many pubs, cafes and restaurants will see a 90% cut in help from the government.

The Liberal Democrats are calling for the government to think again. Businesses across the country are worried about the cliff edge they’re facing this year and Ministers need to listen to businesses about the risks they are facing before they withdraw support.

Ceredigion Liberal Democrat Leader Cllr Elizabeth Evans said: “Countless businesses in our area are facing a cliff edge this year. Our pubs, restaurants and cafes have endured so much already, people will be devastated to see any more harm to our local high streets.

“The UK Government needs to give businesses around here the support they need to endure this energy bill catastrophe.

“Conservative Ministers in Westminster must not wait a moment more. Our pubs, restaurants and cafes have been through a time of great uncertainty, and the added pressure brought about by huge energy hikes could have a devasting impact on our local high streets.”

 

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