British Gas launches WebSaver 2

Commenting on the launch of WebSaver 2 from British Gas, Scott Byrom, utilities manager at moneysupermarket.com, said: "UK bill payers are yet to see an energy price cut this year from npower and Scottish Power, but it's ‘seconds out, round two' from British Gas in the 2009 energy price war. The average online bill now stands at £1054 per year on the WebSaver2 tariff, just over 15 per cent cheaper than the alternate ‘standard' tariff from British Gas - an appealing £191 difference.

"Although the price cuts are good news for energy users it is clear this round is being kept to a minimum. However, through this launch, British Gas achieves its goal of providing the cheapest tariff in all 14 UK regions, undercutting E.ON in the four regions where Energy Online Extra Saver 12 previously held the crown. Bill payers in Yorkshire will see the biggest cut to British Gas' online offering, seeing an average £30 price cut to the previous cost of Web Saver 1 - whereas those in the SWALEC region will see an increase in cost of just over £6. Customers should also be aware of the £60 cancellation fee attached to WebSaver 2 should they wish to swap tariff again before the end of the year, so if you are likely to want to change again it is crucial to factor this cost into savings you could make.

"This latest move really strengthens the case for shopping around for the best value tariff for your circumstances; Brits who have never swapped provider and remain languishing on a standard tariff can find real savings out there. Swapping your payment method will reduce your bills too - paying by monthly direct debit will offer more competitive rates than settling bills by quarterly cash or cheque."