UK homes "disengaged" with energy use - 01/06/2012

Many people in the UK may need to be more proactive if they're to get cheap electricity deals.

One step could be to perform an energy comparison to see if they can get a better deal by switching gas and electricity supplier.

This could save individuals hundreds of pounds a year on their bills, but there are other steps people can take to get more involved.

Sarah Inge Parker, consultant at Carbon Leapfrog, observed the majority of householders are "completely disengaged" with the energy system.

She said: "They don't change suppliers and don't [check] their meters - they rely on estimated readings. For them, energy is not that important."

This is despite the fact bills are likely to continue rising in the near future.

Therefore, Ms Parker said it is vital consumers are actively engaged in the market in order to pressure suppliers into doing more to keep costs to a minimum.

Speaking at the Sustainabilitylive event in Birmingham, she stated there is currently very little involvement in the system and many people are "very passive", adding: "We have to promote that step change towards a more active engagement with the energy system."

Ms Parker's comments come shortly after research by Consumer Focus revealed almost half of people have not heard of smart meters, despite the fact the government will begin a nationwide roll-out in under two years.

Make sure you're not paying too much for your energy - compare gas and electricity prices now at energyhelpline.com or call 0800 074 0745