Energy reforms 'must help lower bills' - 11/05/2012

Plans to reform the energy market announced this week must work to offer cheap electricity bills to consumers.

This is according to Mark Todd, director of independent price comparison site energyhelpline,com, who said it's important politicians take clear action to make the market fairer for users.

A bill to reform the UK's electricity market to encourage investment in the industry  - and boost the use of green sources - was unveiled in this week's Queen's Speech, which sets out the government's plans for the year.

Mr Todd said it's pleasing to hear the energy sector will be a priority for the coalition, but he thinks the public will want to see this translate into lower bills.

He said: "What the government really needs to be doing is trying to rein in spiralling prices by more vigorously promoting competition and reducing stealth taxes in energy bills."

Around three-quarters of customers are not currently active in the switching market, he continued, so it could be important for the coalition to better promote the benefits of performing an energy comparison, which could save households up to £300 a year on their gas and electricity expenses.

This is likely to be increasingly important in the coming years, as costs for energy are set to continue rising.

Mr Todd said "the government are living in a dream land if they think that energy bills are only going to go up £160 over the next 18 years", as prices climbed by more than this last year alone.

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.