The report focuses on the energy, communications and water sectors. On average, energy and communications household spend is at 5%1 and 4%2of total household spend, respectively. In water, 1.4%3 of household income is going towards paying for this service.
The report considers:
-How affordability issues are approached in different regulated sectors.
-What data gathered from regulators and other sources show about the nature of affordability issues in these sectors.
-The drivers of affordability issues and the role of regulators in addressing these issues.
Work will now begin on the second phase report which will consider how to address vulnerability across regulators. It will also look at what could impact bills in the future, particularly as a result of infrastructure investment. UKRN members will work closer than ever to tackle some of the issues identified in the report and align their work to support vulnerable consumers.