uSwitch: Change energy providers to minimise debt
17 July 2007
Debt owed to energy providers in the UK is escalating, according to price comparison website uSwitch.
The online switching service commented on figures by regulator Ofgem that show two million energy consumers owe their provider money.
This represents an increase of a third since 2004, according to uSwitch, which added that this is “only the tip of an iceberg” as the figures fail to take into account those who already have a debt repayment programme set up.
According to the statistics, eight per cent of indebted energy customers owe their provider in excess of £600.
However, nearly two-thirds owe under £100 and uSwitch insists this is a group who could save as much as £210 by changing providers.
Commenting on the trend, uSwitch consumer policy director Ann Robinson said consumers should ensure they are getting the best deal on their energy.
“On average customers could save £210 by switching from their suppliers to the cheapest available dual fuel plan,” she added.
Last week, uSwitch warned that consumers could be losing out on £830 million worth of savings if they fail to take advantage of discounts offered by energy suppliers.