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Walsall Tenants Decry Quadrupled Heat Bills After Heat-Network Reset

The landlord-run heat network leaves tenants without switching options or Ofgem protections.

Overview

  • Unit charges jumped on October 1 from about 4p/kWh to 13.75p at Woodall House and 17.67p at Hamilton House, sending many bills up three to four times.
  • Pensioners report severe budgeting strain and recurring reliability problems, including a 16‑hour heating loss at Hamilton House reported last weekend.
  • Walsall Housing Group says previous prices were heavily subsidised and unsustainable, and that an independent review set the new cost-recovery rates.
  • The landlord estimates average annual costs of £412–£530 and says this is below Ofgem’s £1,266 national average, while offering money advice and support.
  • Local councillor Mark Statham is challenging the price gap between the two blocks and says WHG has yet to share the detailed calculations promised at scrutiny.