SSE issues challenge to rivals with tariff freeze

SSE, one of Britain’s “big six” energy suppliers, has frozen its standard gas and electricity tariffs until next April, putting pressure on its rivals to follow suit.

Energy bills have doubled in Britain over the past decade to about £1,200 a year, and the Government has said it could intervene in the market if it decides prices are too high.

Wholesale gas and electricity prices have meanwhile climbed about 30pc and 40pc respectively since June, leading to speculation prices could rise this winter.