North West growers look for ways to slash rising energy costs
Friday April 18, 2008
The North West horticultural sector has been particularly affected by the dramatic rise in energy prices. On average, there has been a 15 to 20 per cent increase in costs of production for all growers in just three seasons.
Finding ways to help growers reduce their energy costs is now a prime objective for the region's NFU horticulture board. Its next meeting will take place at 7pm on Thursday 01 May at the NFU Regional Office in Skelmersdale and will major on this issue.
Chris Plackett of specialist energy company FEC Services Ltd has been invited to the meeting to highlight how growers can save money and slash their energy bills.
NFU North West Horticulture Board Chairman, Sarah Fairhurst, of Southport based Porters Horticultural Ltd, said: "FEC Services Ltd have a specialist knowledge of the horticultural sector and will cover a range of different energy sources including gas, LPG, oil and renewable energy offering practical tips on how you can minimise your bills. There will also be a round up of other horticultural issues.
"Poor weather and the floods from last year continue to have an impact on potatoes, with planting delayed by bad weather. There are calls for a 20 per cent increase in the prices paid for potatoes and vegetables and although the sector reports mixed fortunes, significant gas price increases is having a disastrous effect on the profitability of horticulture in general."
Notes to editors
The gas price increases are being driven partly by the structure of EU energy markets where continental companies working in highly regulated markets, have been coming to the UK's comparatively unregulated market and forcing up prices.
For an agenda, or further information, please contact Rowena Hammon on 01695 554929 or email: rowena.hammon@nfu.org.uk
