The story I shared today..

Mobile Networks Face Data Rationing and Surge Pricing as Energy Costs Soar

Millions of UK mobile users could soon see throttled data speeds, rationed access, and higher prices during peak times. Major networks like VodafoneThree, Virgin Media O2, and EE warn they’re being hit hard by rising energy bills — and the government has left them out in the cold.

thesun.co.uk

Chancellor Rachel Reeves recently extended the British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme, which gives energy-intensive businesses a 25% discount on electricity. Telecoms firms, despite consuming nearly one terawatt-hour of power annually (enough for 370,000 homes), were excluded.

Mobile networks are designated critical national infrastructure. Unlike factories, they can’t simply shut down at night — they must run 24/7 to support emergency services, businesses, and everyday connectivity. With electricity prices already up 33% due to the conflict in Iran, operators are scrambling for contingency plans.

Potential measures include:Reducing network capacity and rationing data
Introducing surge pricing for peak usage
Delaying 5G rollout, putting thousands of engineering jobs at risk
Offshoring call centres again

Industry voices call the omission a “serious oversight.” VodafoneThree and Virgin Media O2 have urged the government to reconsider, stressing that reliable digital networks are essential for economic growth, productivity, and innovation.

BT/EE says it currently has no plans to ration access or add surge pricing, but the pressure is mounting.Bottom line: As global energy shocks continue, everyday phone users may end up paying the price — literally — for a policy that overlooks one of Britain’s most vital infrastructures.

https://www.thesun.co.uk/money/38897578/mobile-data-rationing-surge-pricing-reeves-energy-costs/