Commenting on the Fuel Poverty Advisory Group report

Published:

13/07/2009

Topic:

Press Release,Gas & Electricity

Commenting on the Fuel Poverty Advisory Group report, Scott Byrom, utilities manager at price comparison site moneysupermarket.com, said:

"While it is encouraging to see the issue of fuel poverty again hitting the agenda it is crucial the Government takes stock of the advice on the table. We welcome any extra help offered to tackle this issue; action needs to be taken now to prevent the number of people in fuel poverty escalating.

"There is no doubt that despite a round of price cuts from the 'Big Six' this year, bill payers are still reeling from unprecedented price hikes in 2008, 47 per cent for gas and 28 per cent for electricity, and with only 0.11 per cent of the UK's energy giants turnover spent on social tariffs and helping those in the poorest households*, it is high time more is done to help the most vulnerable customers.

"At present, social tariffs, aimed at the four million British households in fuel poverty, wildly vary between the energy providers and don't always seem to offer the best value with better deals found online. This needs to be addressed first and foremost to ensure immediate help is given to those who need it most.

"I advise vulnerable customers struggling to pay their energy bills to be proactive and contact their energy supplier to see what options are available with regards to reducing their energy bills. Likewise, energy suppliers need to ensure adequate support is readily available and help is delivered efficiently."

-Ends-

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