THE CHAIRMAN of a Heritage Trust in Glyn Ceiriog has been left in disbelief after seeing his standard charge for electricity rise by 600 per cent - for a waiting room with one plug and one lightbulb.
Keith Roberts, chairman of The New Glyn Valley Tramway & Industrial Heritage Trust, explained that to his “horror” Scottish Power increased the standard order charge from 26.99p a day to £1.92 a day.
He had initially asked for the electricity supply to be removed to save money - but instead the power supplier suggested installing a smart meter.
Because of the poor signal in the valley that didn't work properly - and instead the standing charge spiralled out of control.
Mr Roberts confirmed that the Glyn Valley Tramway waiting room in Pontfadog has only one lightbulb.
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Keith added: “I asked Scottish Power to remove our electricity supply at a cost of £215.60.
“They came back with ‘why not have a smart meter which would help’, even though they knew what little electricity we were using, ‘it would cost you nothing’.
“After consultation with the committee we agreed.
“Unfortunately, after having it fitted they could not commission it because the signal in the Ceiriog Valley was not strong enough – so no help at all.”
The chairman then asked them if they could remove the electricity altogether.
“In desperation I asked if we can have the electricity supply taken out”, he added.
“Wait for it, they have now come back with a figure of £500 but before they can do the job I need to contact Scottish Power Energy Network to disconnect the wiring before Scottish Power can take out the meter.”
Keith now fears another bill from Scottish Power Energy Network – as he wasn’t even aware there were two different departments.
He continued: “I wonder how many other people, including businesses in the Ceiriog Valley are being over charged by this electricity supply company, by charging such an extortionate Standing Rate.
“It is little wonder that charities and trusts are closing their doors because they cannot afford to carry on.”
Speaking to other people in the community Keith confirmed that there are others that struggle with the new pricing.
The chairman also explained that they cannot afford the bill as they rely entirely on their members' subscriptions and public donations.
He added: “It isn’t the electricity price that is killing us all.
“It is the standard charges – where do we go from here.”
Scottish Power are working to resolve the issue.
A spokesperson said: "We are sorry to hear of the issues Mr Roberts has experienced.
"We are investigating and will work to resolve the matter as quickly as possible.”
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