uSwitch.com: 5 million UK switchers

Ofgem reveals UK energy switching levels hit 5 million in 2007, but whole groups of customers are missing out.

Tim Wolfenden, Head of Home Services at uSwitch.com, comments: “An increase in switching has got to be welcomed, but cannot be taken in isolation as proof that all is well in the energy market. We can only start slapping ourselves on the backs over the healthy state of competition in the UK when we know that people are switching properly, sensibly and regularly. Making use of competition should be a habit - an annual financial health check - not a one off moment of weakness with a door step energy salesman.

“The biggest concern is that those who could benefit most from switching are the ones who are missing out – our research shows that over two thirds (69%) of the over 60s have never switched. It looks like Ofgem will be trying to address this by working with third parties such as Citizen’s Advice. But, perhaps more thought needs to be given to how the market communicates with consumers, especially the vulnerable. There are some great energy deals out there, but many potential switchers may be put off because these deals are labelled ‘online’ – more needs to be done to explain these and make them accessible to as many groups as possible.

“Overall, it’s clear that great strides have been made, but perhaps now is the right time to pause a moment to make sure that consumers are staying in step and that the vulnerable are not being left behind. We have the makings of a really good competitive market, but we still have some way to go before we can say that all consumers are benefitting.”