DECC is today launching a consultation on plans to introduce QR (Quick Response) codes on consumer energy bills to make it easier for bill-payers to obtain an accurate cross-market comparison. Scanning the code with their smartphone or tablet would enable them to upload information on their energy tariff seamlessly to a price comparison website.
Ann Robinson, Director of Consumer Policy at Uswitch.com, says: “This is a great step forward in helping consumers to get easier and quicker access to better value energy deals.
“The reality is that many struggle to understand their bills and key information such as consumption which they need to compare prices. This is one of the big reasons why only around 10% of us really engage in this market by shopping around. QR codes will help to remove this barrier as they are consumer friendly and easy to use. Most people either have a smart phone or tablet or know someone who does, so potentially many more us will be able to truly engage to make this market competitive.
“I don’t think any of us need persuading about the benefits of competition on pricing, quality of service and pressuring companies to become more efficient. This is why the benefits of QR codes could be immense.”
Alexa Wheeler
Phone: 0207 1484 661
Email: alexa.wheeler@uswitch.com
Twitter: @uswitchPR
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Uswitch is the UK’s top comparison website for home services switching. Launched in September 2000, we help consumers save money on their gas, electricity, broadband, mobile, TV, and financial services products and get more of what matters to them. Last year we saved consumers over £373 million on their energy bills alone.
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