Energy tariff plans 'a good start'
13th Apr 2012
New plans to simplify the range of energy tariffs available in the UK are welcome, but more still needs to be done to help homeowners it has been claimed.
The big six energy companies - British Gas, E.ON, npower, Scottish and Southern Energy, EDF Energy and Scottish Power – have revealed that they are to contact their customers at least once a year letting them know what their best deal is, in a bid to reduce energy bills.
It came after deputy prime minister Nick Clegg said that seven out of ten people in the UK currently have the wrong deal and pay too much.
Maria Wardrobe, director of external affairs at National Energy Action (NEA), said she is pleased that the proposals will simplify the "confusing and complex" range of tariffs.
"However, the fact that householders will be advised of the best tariff doesn't mean they will be in a position to access it. For example, older vulnerable people with no access to the internet will not be in a position to switch to online direct debit," she added.
Ms Wardrobe said she hopes that the proposals will help energy companies identify those who may be eligible for the Broader Group of Warm Home Discount and provide them with the rebate of £130 for winter 2012/13.
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