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Starting January 1, 2025, the average UK household will see their energy bills increase to £1,738 annually, marking a £21 rise from the previous cap. This follows a 10% increase in October, raising concerns about affordability during winter months.
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UK retail sales fell by 0.7% in October, marking the first decline in three months. Clothing stores were particularly affected, with consumers holding back spending ahead of the Labour government's first budget. Despite this drop, sales volumes increased by 0.8% over the previous three months.
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Ofgem has announced a 1.2% increase in the energy price cap, raising the average household bill from £1,717 to £1,738 starting January 1, 2025. This follows a previous increase in October and reflects ongoing volatility in international energy markets.
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Chris Hoy, the six-time Olympic cycling champion, has disclosed a terminal cancer diagnosis, stating he has two to four years left to live. The 48-year-old revealed that the cancer, initially diagnosed in his prostate, has metastasized to multiple areas of his body. Hoy's announcement comes as he prepares to release his memoir.
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A recent outbreak of H5N1 bird flu in a pig in Oregon has heightened concerns about the virus's potential to mutate and spread among humans. The infected pig was part of a backyard farm, which has been quarantined. Officials maintain that the risk to public health remains low despite the developments.
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Japan is set to construct an automated 'conveyor-belt road' between Tokyo and Osaka to address a truck driver shortage. The project aims to handle logistics efficiently, with trials starting in 2027 and full operations expected by the mid-2030s. It could replace the work of 25,000 drivers daily.
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The Labour government aims to achieve a clean electricity system by 2030, as confirmed by the National Energy System Operator's report. While the target is deemed achievable, it requires urgent reforms and significant infrastructure development to meet the ambitious goals outlined in their election manifesto.
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The UK government is expediting plans for significant onshore and offshore wind projects to meet its 2030 clean energy target. National Grid is reviewing timelines for two major power cable projects amid local opposition, while new onshore wind developments are set to revive the sector after years of stagnation.
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Ofgem has approved the Eastern Green Link 1 project, a £2 billion subsea and underground cable connecting Scotland and England. This initiative aims to enhance energy security, reduce consumer bills, and support the UK's green energy targets by transporting wind-generated electricity.