WHOLESALE ENERGY prices rose 1 per cent in June, according to the latest Bord Gáis Energy Index.

Natural gas prices increased 11 per cent last month, partly due to erratic flows from the Langeled pipeline which links the UK with a Norwegian gas field.

In addition, the price of coal, which has been rising since March, jumped a further 6 per cent in June.

This increase is being driven by higher demand from UK utilities, coupled with the closure of a number of German coal mines.

Global oil prices increased by just 1 per cent in June, from €60.66 to € 61.29 per barrel.

Also included in the index are electricity prices, which remained broadly unchanged on the Irish wholesale market last month

Wholesale energy prices have now risen 23 per cent in the past 12 months.

However, Michael Kelleher of Bord Gáis Energy said the index appeared to be consolidating at current levels after a steady rise from the “recession-driven lows” of March 2009.

“Looking ahead, forward markets currently project a small rise in energy prices,” he said.

This outlook could change, however, because of volatility in energy markets caused by a lack of clarity on the euro, doubts over the US recovery and the reduction in the projected rate of economic growth in China.