Energy supplier switching
Energy supplier switching
Energy Supplier switching
Gas and electricity markets in the UK have been fully competitive since 1999. This means all householders have a choice of gas and electricity supplier. Householders who have never switched supplier are the most likely to be able to reduce their fuel bills significantly but most householders can reduce their existing fuel costs if they shop around for the best deal.
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a) Introduction to energy price comparison websites
There are a number of officially accredited price comparison websites that will assist with energy supplier switching. These websites enable householders to enter data about their energy consumption and preferred payment methods that then give a list of what the different suppliers would charge, starting from the cheapest to the most expensive. As guidance for finding the cheapest (if personal circumstances allow) input monthly payment by direct debit, submitting own readings with an on line account and always go for dual fuel if use both gas and electricity. For someone without a bank account or easy access to an internet computer this best option may not be practical and inputs will need to be made that fit with personal circumstances.
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b) Websites for energy price comparison
The following are some of the energy price comparison websites available to use when considering energy supplier switching:
Note! Switching sites may not contain information about any discounted tariffs offered to certain categories of vulnerable customer by energy suppliers. Normally these tariffs are only open to existing customers but further information can be found by contacting the supplier. It is also always advisable to speak to the present supplier prior to arranging to switch because they may offer an even cheaper tariff to encourage customers to stay with them.
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c) Process of switching energy supplier
● A contract with the new supplier must be agreed before arrangements to supply gas or electricity can be made. The contract can be agreed over the telephone, at home or some suppliers allow customers to sign up on the internet.
● When any contract to switch is signed there is by law a seven day cooling off period. All suppliers should phone or write to the customer to make sure it is understood that a contract has been entered into and that the customer is happy with the way the sale was made. If not then the customer has the right to cancel the contract.
● Tell the existing supplier. This can be done in writing and many companies allow this to be done by telephone. Bills from the existing supplier will have the telephone number for contacting them given.
● Any outstanding bills with the existing supplier should be paid. A final bill with the existing supplier will also usually need paying once the switch has gone through.
● The new supplier will read the meter (or ask for a customer reading) around the time of the switch. The old supplier will use this same meter reading to work out the final bill. A note should be kept of the reading in case of any dispute.
Source of information; Fuel Poverty in Action Report by National Energy Action 2008
Please also click here for link to a video 'Shopping around for the best energy deal' and herefor a link to a video on 'Dealing with energy sales people' both produced in conjunction with OFGEM and the Citizens Advice Bureau.
