Beat the deadline – last chance to save on energy bills

Residents keen to slash their gas and electricity bills are being urged to sign up to an energy switching scheme before the deadline runs out on 8 April.

The initiative has already saved money for thousands of residents across the region, by using ‘people power’ to get the energy companies to offer a better deal to local consumers.

More than 35,000 people across Greater Manchester signed up to the first phase of the GM Fair Energy scheme in January, around 1,800 of them Bury residents, with savings of £3 million being offered direct to residents. One dual-fuel customer was offered a saving of £892 per year, while another resident was offered a saving of £770. For the first time, deals were made available for people on prepayment meters, with one resident being offered a saving of £295.

The scheme is now in its second phase, and the more households that sign up, the better the deal for everyone.

How the scheme works:

·  On 9 April an online energy auction will take place with UK energy providers. They will be offered the chance to supply people across Greater Manchester who have signed up to the scheme.

·  Each provider will bid for your custom by offering their cheapest energy deal. The best-value provider will then be chosen and that deal offered to all those who signed up to the scheme. Once you receive your offer you can decide whether to accept or decline.

·  It’s easy and quick to join. Just fill in one simple online form at www.gmfairenergy.com and have a recent energy bill to hand so that we can estimate your annual energy use and spend.

Councillor Mike Connolly, leader of Bury Council, said: “We all know that times are hard and household budgets are under pressure. This scheme gives residents a real chance to save money on what are essential items, and I would urge all those who haven’t yet looked at the scheme to do so. There’s no obligation to sign up if you don’t get a better deal. It only takes a minute, but it could save you a fortune.”

** A company called Emerge will be in Bury promoting the GM Fair Energy Campaign on 4 and 5 April.

They will be knocking on doors in four areas of Bury – Ramsbottom, Moorside, East Bury and Besses – and will carry ID to reassure residents.

ENDS

Press release issued: 26 March 2013.