Pubs get a chance to call for energy reform

There are two weeks left to submit responses to the energy regulator’s most recent consultation.

The call follows new research by energy advisors Make It Cheaper, which discovered that almost every business that has switched its supplier would like to see more information clearly presented on its bills.

Ofgem’s Retail Market Review states “Ofgem would like to hear the views of interested parties in relation to any of the issues set out in this document. In particular, we would like to hear from business customers.”

The Make It Cheaper research shows that 94% of the 500 companies survey-ed said Ofgem should en-force a reminder of the ‘contract end date’ on all bills.

A similar number think their contract renewal letters should be sent by re-corded delivery and contain more information about the process required to escape an automatic renewal.

Jonathan Elliott, managing director of Make It Cheaper, said: “Any business that’s been caught out by a roll-over contract will know how frustrating and expensive it is to be locked in for a year unwillingly.

“If, like just about everyone we’ve asked, you’d like to see some anti-rollover measures put in place, then now’s the time to act. Ofgem is asking for input from business energy customers and so we’ve put together an email on our website that anyone with a vested interest can copy, paste and send.”

Responses should be sent to rmr@ofgem.gov.uk by 15 February.