Help at hand to avoid winter fuel hikes

Residents who are worried about their energy bills rising this winter are being urged to switch to better deals using a new comparison website.

The www.betterenergydeals.org.uk site has been launched by the ten Greater Manchester councils after some of the big energy companies announced they will be increasing their rates over the winter, leaving many families struggling to pay their bills.

People from across the region are being urged to visit the site and find out how much they could save by changing to another supplier.

Residents just need to enter their post code and information about how much they are currently paying to find suggestions for alternative suppliers offering cheaper contracts.

Households using a similar comparison website can save an average of £141 from their energy bills, while some people have saved as much as £331.

The Greater Manchester authorities organised an energy switching scheme earlier this year, in which people from across the region were invited to join two ‘reverse auctions’ before being offered new deals on their gas and electricity bills which they could either accept or reject.

This was the most successful scheme of its kind in the country, with more than 40,000 people coming forward to take part in both auctions. The average saving was £122 per household, but some residents were able to shave as much as much as £900 from their annual bills.

Another auction will be held early next year for people who miss the chance to find new suppliers on the new comparison site.

Meanwhile, anyone who is unable to find a deal they like will be contacted in the new year and reminded that the auction will shortly be opening, giving them another opportunity to save money.

Councillor Tony Isherwood, Bury’s cabinet member for environment, said: “Everyone knows how much fuel bills have risen recently, and many will be struggling to keep their house warm this winter.

“This is why we’ve worked together to set up this comparison site, so that people can see if they can save money before the cold really starts to bite.

“Another energy auction will be held in the new year, but hopefully this site will help people who are worried that they can’t wait that long.”

Customers who need advice or are unsure of what option is best for them can also call energy advisors on 0800 988 2426.

ENDS

Press release issued: 11 December 2013.