Confused.com: Advice to npower customers on fixed rate tariff

During last year's unprecedented price rises which saw average energy bills rise by a staggering 42%, 1 in 5 customers opted for a fixed rate deal - a fantastic move for those that wanted to shield themselves from rising prices.

But, with wholesale energy prices now falling and the extremely popular npower one (a fixed tariff) coming to the end of its fixed rate period, customers should be considering what to do next. The npower fixed rate deal ends on 31st July, so customers need to think about their next move now.

Gareth Kloet, head of utilities at Confused.com says "I'd estimate that about 100,000 customers will see their npower fixed rate tariff come to an end within the next few weeks and it's vital that they don't just allow themselves to be switched into the npower standard tariff, which is what will happen if they do nothing. The end of the fixed rate needn't mean an increase to your bills, as there are a number of very competitive tariffs currently available.

"Customers should shop around to find the most appropriate tariff currently available. This will depend on region and specific consumption and whether customers wish to find another fixed rate tariff or would prefer a discounted variable tariff, duel fuel, pay by direct debit etc.

"The easiest way to shop around is via an accredited comparison site which will show all tariffs available in the market and therefore make it quick and easy to pick the most appropriate tariff for your individual needs. And once you've made the switch online, your new energy supplier will do all the hard work for you during the changeover."

Best buy tables show the cheapest tariffs available for low, medium and high consumption users, but should only be used as a guide when considering your next move as most people don't fit into the standard low, medium or high consumption values.