Commenting on the British Gas announcement today that it is cutting standard gas prices by an average seven per cent, Audrey Gallacher, Consumer Focus energy expert, said,
‘This is a very rare piece of good news for consumers amid mounting expectations of an era of steep energy prices. We welcome British Gas taking the lead and look to other energy companies to quickly follow.
‘People should use the British Gas cut as a trigger to check they’re getting the best possible deal – thinking about switching, making sure they’re on the right tariff and getting the right advice on energy efficiency.
‘But consumers could have seen prices fall earlier, as energy companies should have passed on wholesale price cuts before winter. We welcome British Gas bringing the cost of using a pre-payment meter into line with payment by cash or cheque – something Consumer Focus has called for. But it highlights just how slow the industry has been to admit that these prices were punitive – pre-payment meter users have been paying over the odds for years.’
Ends
Notes to editors
- People can more find help and advice on energy issues at www.consumerfocus.org.uk
- Consumers who want to switch should use one of the Internet price comparison services accredited to the Consumer Focus Confidence Code. These independent price comparison sites offer a comprehensive service that compares people’s current supplier’s tariffs and usage with those of all the major suppliers. They help find the best deal and provide a free and easy-to-use switching service.
- Consumer Focus Helpfinder
This tool on our website allows consumers to find out what grants, discounts, free energy help and assistance they are entitled to. It covers help with paying energy bills, household bills including debts; free advice on making homes more energy efficient; financial support from Government. - Consumer Focus monthly energy pricing update email alerts
Consumers can keep track of the latest prices with our monthly email alert. People register their details to see at a glance how their prices compare.
