Energy bills could fall for millions

The Deputy Prime Minister's announcement that energy bills could fall following the Government's landmark deal with the big six suppliers is very welcome, says uSwitch.com, the independent price comparison and switching service.

Ann Robinson, Director of Consumer Policy at uSwitch.com, says: "This is the step change in thinking that we've all been waiting for. Consumer switching levels have dropped off a cliff, but by suppliers actively demonstrating what the savings could be many more may be encouraged to shop around for a better deal. With the average household energy bill now an eye-watering £1,252 a year, consumers cannot afford to be paying more than they have to. The fact that seven in ten are paying over the odds simply demonstrates the deep malaise affecting the market.

"There are two important points here though - firstly consumers should not just be told the best deal for their current payment method but also the best deal overall. This would encourage far more to take the step of moving to direct debit or going online in order to benefit from discounts on their bills. And secondly, the big six should not just direct consumers to their best tariff, but should also advise customers on how to get an independent and impartial comparison.

"However, consumers also have their part to play too - it's vital that they use this information to check how their supplier compares with others as the difference between all suppliers and different types of tariff is currently up to £322. The good news is that this greater transparency over prices may give consumers the trust and the confidence they need to finally make this market work to their benefit."