You only really need it if users have to log into your website, or your website stores any kind of personal information. But there may be some legal need for an SSL. We've had our video website up an running for over a decade now and never used an SSL, purely because we don't store any personal information from users. It's the same reason we don't need a privacy policy. But, because we're based in the EU we do have to have the cookie warning.

I can't help but agree with you though. It probably is the service provider trying to add on extra costs.