Choosing a New Energy Supplier

There are currently over 20 licensed gas and electricity suppliers in Great Britain. The competition has resulted in more competitive pricing, but you need to do some research in order to determine who can offer you the best deal.

When choosing a new supplier there are two criteria that will probably be of most significance to you:

• The overall cost each year
• The accepted methods of payment

The overall cost will obviously depend on the supplier, but will also vary according to the amount of electricity and gas you use, the payment method you opt for (paying by direct debit often results in a bill reduction) and whether you have your gas and electricity provided by the same supplier.

Some suppliers have a standing charge in addition to the charge levied for gas or electricity used. Others have no standing charge, but the unit cost of gas or electricity used is likely to be higher. Consequently, if you can find some old bills and determine how much gas and electricity you used over the past quarter or year, your estimates will be that much more accurate.

Details of the available methods of payment can be found on the payment methods page.