The Scotsman cartoon - SSE and energy prices - The Scotsman Energy giant SSE was engaged in a war of words with ministers after announcing it was raising gas and electricity bills by up to 10 per cent for millions of households. The row erupted after the supplier became the first firm to hike tariffs this autumn, adding a typical £106 to annual dual-fuel customer charges to reach £1,380. SSE said levies to pay for low-carbon generation and energy efficiency had risen sharply but Energy Secretary Ed Davey hit back saying these were far outweighed by wholesale prices and suggesting customers ought to look elsewhere for cheaper bills.