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Copyright Big Energy Saving Network 2013
Session objectives
To explain:
payment and tariff options
fuel bills and the annual statement
how to switch payment method and / or tariff
further assistance available – help with paying fuel bills, fuel debt advice or improving energy efficiency
Copyright Big Energy Saving Network 2013
Payment methodsCheck with existing supplier to see if there is a cheaper way of paying.
Cash / cheque – quarterly / monthly Direct Debit – fixed / variable – quarterly / monthly Standing Order Online account Budget scheme / Cash Plan Prepayment meter Third Party Deduction – Fuel Direct
Copyright Big Energy Saving Network 2013
Understanding fuel bills
Key information:
Meter readings
Unit cost
Usage
Account number
Tariff name
Payment method
Meter serial number
Supply number – MPAN / MPRN
Supplier contact details
Copyright Big Energy Saving Network 2013
Tariff options
Consider choosing a cheaper tariff with your existing supplier or another company.
Fuel suppliers are simplifying and reducing the number of tariffs on offer.
Tariff types: Standard variable single rate with a standing charge Time of Use (e.g. Economy 7, White Meter) Prepayment Fixed term ‘Green’
Suppliers can offer two cash discounts: Dual fuel Online
Copyright Big Energy Saving Network 2013
Switching – Get impartial and accurate adviceToday’s session is designed to provide information to help you make an informed choice about switching to a better deal
Top tips –
You can get information online or by telephone
Use an accredited switching site –
Look for the Ofgem Code of Confidence.
To ensure the information you are given is accurate you need to have: the name of your current tariff, your payment method, how much energy you used over the last year, postcode
Copyright Big Energy Saving Network 2013
Switching – myth busting
I’ll be disconnected.
The pipes and wires will have to be changed.
I cannot switch because I owe
my supplier money.
I’ll need new meters.
They’ll need to come into the
house.
They’ll dig up my garden.
It’s all very complicated
and takes ages.
I rent my home, pay my own gas and electricity bills, but cannot switch.
I can’t switch because im on a prepayment
meter
Copyright Big Energy Saving Network 2013
Why consider Switching now?
Get the best possible deal – why pay more than you need to?
If you have never changed payment method or supplier you could be paying more than you need to
Fuel prices are rising
Need to be able to heat your home for comfort and health
Ofgem’s reforms – fewer and simpler tariff options – good time to switch
Copyright Big Energy Saving Network 2013
How to switchSwitch using an internet comparison site or contact the supplier.
New supplier contacted
directly or via comparison site
Contract agreed over telephone, online or signed face-to-face
New supplier contacts current supplier
New supplier confirms start date and requests meter reading
Consumer receives bill from current supplier and pays
Switch should take 21 calendar days, after a 14 day cooling-off period when contract can be cancelled.
Cooling-off period
Copyright Big Energy Saving Network 2013
Further assistance – England
Warm Home Discount – a £135 rebate off electricity bill this winter for qualifying households
Energy Company Obligation (ECO) – provides free heating (e.g. boiler replacement and repair) and insulation (e.g. cavity wall and loft insulation) measures to qualifying households
Priority Service Register – a range of free services provided by fuel suppliers for qualifying customers
Copyright Big Energy Saving Network 2013
Advice providers
Citizens Advice consumer service and consumer
helpline
The Home Heat Helpline provides advice on managing energy costs
Telephone: 0800 33 66 99
Energy Saving Trust (EST) and Energy Saving Advice Service
Telephone: 0300 123 1234
Hackney Energy Advice Service
Telephone: 0800 281 768
London Borough of Haringey, Environmental advice sessions
Telephone: 020 8885 7700
Copyright Big Energy Saving Network 2013
Future Events
Redmond Community Centre7th March 2014, 5-7pm
The Laurels Health Centre23th March 2014, 10am -12pm
