16 December 2008
Households expecting to see large reductions in their gas and electricity bills next year are likely to be disappointed, uSwitch.com has warned.
The independent price comparison and switching service said that even if prices are cut in the spring - as has been predicted - they will still be significantly higher than they were at the same time a year ago.
Indeed, energy bills have risen by 42% since the beginning of this year, so a reduction of 10% would still leave customers paying over 28% more then they were prior to the increases.
uSwitch.com is therefore urging households to take action to reduce their gas and electricity bills by switching to a more competitive deal.
"Rather than waiting for suppliers to reduce prices, I would urge all householders to take action now by ensuring they are paying the lowest possible price for their energy and learning to use less of it," said Ann Robinson, Director of Consumer Policy.
Energy Secretary Ed Miliband insisted last week that the government would be prepared to legislate if gas and electricity providers do not move to cut prices.