20 March 2006
Local energy network operators are being urged to do more to help vulnerable customers.
The energy industry regulator Ofgem has invited the UK's distribution network operators (DNOs) to join its award scheme that encourages them to meet and even exceed their obligations to vulnerable customers.
The country's 14 DNOs can submit programmes designed to help elderly or disabled customers as well as those with a long-term sickness.
Developing good communication strategies with key bodies is also encouraged by the award scheme, as well as good corporate responsibility initiatives.
Ofgem hopes to encourage DNOs to change their whole approach to vulnerable customers, aiming to reward "DNOs which have holistic approaches embedded in their broader business processes, not necessarily 'flagship' projects or one-off initiatives".
A pot of £1 million has been made available to the operators for each year until 2010 under the scheme, which will be judged by a panel made up of representatives from Ofgem, energywatch and other organisations.
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