22 September 2005
Scottish gas and electricity users would be mad not to consider switching their gas and electricity provider, the industry regulator and watchdog has said.
At present, almost half of Scots are still using Scottish Gas (which trades in England and Wales as British Gas) for gas, and ScottishPower or Scottish Hydro for electricity.
The regulator, Ofgem, says that customers could save £116 a year by changing gas supplier, and over £150 by getting a new electricity provider.
Alistair Buchanan, the Ofgem chief executive, said: "Our research shows that despite rising energy prices, it is possible for many customers in Scotland to save over £100 on their energy bills.
"There has never been a better time to shop around."
Graham Kerr, of the watchdog energywatch, added: "The former monopolies are banking on customers not switching so they keep up higher prices.
"There are no prizes for loyalty."
Use the uSwitch.com energywatch accredited calculator to find the best gas and electricity supplier for your household.