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Switching 'not the answer' for energy consumers

24 April 2008

The days where UK consumers can make significant reductions to their electricity and gas tariffs by switching supplier may be over, according to energywatch.

Adam Scorer, the group's director of campaigns claimed that even the least expensive deal offered by the energy firms "does not equal affordable energy", the Scotsman reported.

He added: "No-one can seriously think that switching, by itself, provides the answer for Britain's besieged energy consumers."

Mr Scorer said he felt the government needed to take a more active role in addressing the issue of fuel poverty, particularly as rising wholesale electricity and gas prices could push the average dual fuel bill to £1,200 annually.

Earlier this week, uSwitch research indicated that there are currently 6.8 million people in the UK who are in "energy debt", with an average of £114 owed to their electricity and gas supplier.

A recent report from Citizen's Advice issued to Ofgem revealed that UK energy debt cases have risen by one-third.

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