<h3>E.ON is set to pay goodwill payments to those it charged too early, along with paying £627,312 into the energy redress fund.&nbsp;</h3>Most of the payments were set to be taken in January 2021 but were accidentally taken on 24 December 2020 due to a technical fault.&nbsp;E.ON reported the incident to Ofgem immediately and made redress payments totalling £55,039 to customers. Furthermore, E.ON will pay nearly £630,000 into the energy redress fund in acknowledgement of its failure to address underlying system weaknesses.&nbsp;Anna Rossington, director of retail at Ofgem, said:“Ofgem expects suppliers to adhere to the terms of contracts they have with customers, in particular the agreed Direct Debit payment dates. This failure is a reminder to suppliers that when making changes to their systems, they need to undertake appropriate checks to avoid any unintended consequences for customers."“Ofgem is always prepared to work with suppliers who have failed to comply with their obligations, but who have self-reported and are determined to put things right, as E.ON has done."Customers who have been negatively affected and haven’t already spoken to E.ON about it, should contact E.ON if they wish to make a claim for any bank charges or other detriment caused by the early direct debit payments."Source: <a href="https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/publications-and-updates/eon-pay-over-650000-after-taking-direct-debit-payments-early">Ofgem</a>&nbsp;

E.ON reported early Direct Debit payments to Ofgem immediately and made redress payments totalling £55,039 to customers. E.ON will also  pay nearly £630,000 into the energy redress fund.

E.ON to pay £650,000 for early DD payments

E.ON took Direct Debit payments from 1.6 million customers earlier than agreed.

E.ON to pay £650,000 for early Direct Debit payments

<h3>Earth Day occurs every year on 22 April to demonstrate support and promote awareness for our planet’s environmental protection.&nbsp;</h3>Since its first appearance in 1970, Earth Day has remained a crucial annual landmark in the calendars of environmental activists around the globe, with the mission to “diversify, educate and activate the environmental movement worldwide.”<h3>Earth Day 2021</h3>This year, Earth Day will run from 20 to 22 April, beginning with the global youth climate summit led by Earth Uprising, alongside My Future My Voice, OneMillionOfUs and hundreds of youth climate activists, including Greta Thunberg.&nbsp;On the evening of 20 April, the Hip Hop Caucus will present the “We Shall Breathe” virtual summit which will raise awareness of the issues of the climate crisis, poverty, police brutality and the pandemic.&nbsp;April 21 will make way for Educational International to lead the “Teach for the Planet: Global Educational Summit.”On 22 April, Earth Day itself, EARTHDAY.ORG will have its second live digital event, in line with the Biden Administration’s global climate summit, which will begin at 5pm BST&nbsp; on their website(12pm Eastern Time). Topics such as up and coming green technologies, reforestation projects, equity and environmental justice and climate restoration technologies will be discussed among many others.&nbsp;<h3>The Origins of Earth Day</h3>Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring helped raise public awareness about the state of the planet in 1962, selling more than half a million copies in 24 countries. The publication of Carson’s book woke the general public up to the devastation pollution was having, on both Earth and humans alike.&nbsp;Inspired by the Vietnam anti-war movements, a junior senator from Wisconsin named Gaylord Nelson suggested the idea for a lecture on college campuses to the national media. With the help of Republican Congressman Pete McCloskey and a young activist named Denis Hayes, they chose 22 April to hold the lecture - a weekday in between Spring Break and Final exams - to maximise student participation.&nbsp;The day in which the lecture was held was named Earth Day, which helped ignite interest across the USA, inspiring some 20 million Americans to demonstrate against the devastating effects 150 years of industrial revolution was having on the environment and human health.&nbsp;In 1990 environmental leaders helped Earth Day go global. 200 million people across 141 countries helped campaign and protest to raise awareness for the environmental issues that were becoming increasingly damaging to the Earth. Earth Day 1990 gave a tremendous boost in the recycling effort worldwide and even helped pave the way for the 1992 United Nations Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro.&nbsp;Since, Earth Day has been the inspiration behind many collective, worldwide movements and projects, all with the goal of striving further toward environmental preservation and protection.&nbsp;

Today is Earth Day, a day that occurs every year on 22 April to demonstrate support and promote awareness for our planet’s environmental protection. 

Earth Day 2021: The catalyst of global environmental activism

The day that sparked climate change activism around the globe. 

<h3>Ofgem introduced a financial incentive to help the National Grid Electricity System Operator (National Grid ESO) produce more accurate forecasts in 2017. Between April and October 2017, these forecasts were either over or under demand.&nbsp;</h3>National Grid ESO received £130,000 from the incentive during the inaccurate electricity demand forecasts, but investigation found the ESO did not have to sufficient compliance in place to provide forecasts with the accuracy Ofgem wanted.&nbsp;Energy suppliers across the UK often rely on these forecasts so they know how much electricity to both generate and purchase. This can cause suppliers to either buy too much and sell back at a loss, or buy too little and have to cover the shortfall - in both instances higher prices can be passed on to consumers.&nbsp;National Grid ESO has agreed to pay £1.5 million into Ofgem's voluntary redress fund to support vulnerable energy consumers and further innovation.Ofgem’s Director of Enforcement Cathryn Scott said:“In 2017, National Grid ESO did not meet its obligation to provide accurate and unbiased 7-day ahead electricity demand forecasts which ultimately may have risked pushing up the cost of electricity for consumers."“National Grid ESO plays a vital role in coordinating and managing the supply and demand of Britain’s electricity. Many suppliers rely on accurate electricity demand forecasts to buy electricity for their customers."“Ofgem’s rules on publishing accurate information are clear and must be followed. The £1.5 million payment sends a strong message to the system operator that it must follow the rules.”Source: <a href="https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/publications-and-updates/national-grid-electricity-system-operator-pay-15-million-over-electricity-demand-forecasts">Ofgem</a>&nbsp;

Ofgem introduced a financial incentive to help the National Grid Electricity System Operator (National Grid ESO) produce more accurate forecasts in 2017. Between April and October 2017, these forecasts were either over or under demand. 

National Grid to pay £1.5m into voluntary redress refund

An accurate 7-day electricity demand forecast was not provided during a number of months in 2017.

<h3>Energy price rises will total £927 million for 9.6 million customers of the six largest suppliers in the UK, according to our recently conducted research.</h3>The price rise was announced on 5th February following a decision from Ofgem to increase the price cap, affecting the average price of a standard variable tariff (SVT), raising it from £1,042 to £1,138.&nbsp;Following the announcement, various energy suppliers have come forward revealing their default tariffs will be priced in line with the upper limit of the price cap, raising energy bills across the UK for millions.&nbsp;British Gas’ 2.4million default tariff customers will see an average annual rise of £97 each from next month, while 2.3 million OVO Energy and SSE customers will face a combined £226m hike from the 1st April.&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://ehl.imgix.net/Price_rise_table_graphic_1f10d9b9ac.jpg"></figure>Tom Lyon, director of energy at energyhelpline.com, said: “These wide-ranging price hikes couldn’t possibly come at a worse time for consumers, taking effect almost exactly 12 months since having to cope with the spiralling energy bills due to COVID-19 restrictions.“With the number of homes in the red to their energy provider already at a record five-year high, the surge in debt is only set to get worse. That’s why we are calling on the Government to do more to help households, by temporarily cutting VAT on bills and reforming the Cold Weather Payment so it better helps the most vulnerable to keep warm.”“If you are worried about paying your bill, speak to your supplier as soon as possible to discuss ways they can help. It’s also important to send regular meter readings, if you don’t have a smart meter, to your provider so your bill is accurate and to avoid any nasty surprises later in the year.”“While the price cap affects some of the most expensive deals on the market, fixed deals are unaffected and switching to a competitive fixed tariff will lower bills and lock in prices for 12 months or more. However, rising wholesale costs have increased the prices of the most competitive tariffs on the market by 17% since last April, so consumers are strongly advised to switch and fix sooner rather than later."<h3>Switch and fix your energy prices to protect yourself</h3>Switching to an energy deal with a fixed energy price will protect you from the price rises. While the price cap has still affected the cheapest fixed deals on the market, they still remain a much cheaper and safer alternative.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h3 style="text-align:center;"><a href="https://www.energyhelpline.com/">Switch today</a></h3>

Our recently revealed figures show that energy price rises will total £927 million for 9.6 million customers of the eight largest suppliers in the UK.

10 million customers to be hit with £1 billion energy price rise

It’s not too late to switch before your first costly bill. 

<h3>Customers who pay too much for their energy via direct debit payments should receive automatic annual refunds, according to Ofgem.&nbsp;</h3>Ofgem has proposed outstanding balances are cleared once a year, which would prevent suppliers holding thousands of pounds worth of overpayments that are only returned when requested by customers.&nbsp;It's also been mentioned that energy suppliers were using this money for "unsustainable business practices."For customers who pay via Direct Debit, the cost-per-month for energy is usually predicted, and can lead to some customers paying too much, which causes their accounts to go into credit.&nbsp;Predicted Direct Debits can build up, and is down to the customer to request the refund, which is a process that can take months.&nbsp;<h3>Ofgem's proposition</h3>Ofgem has proposed from next year that energy companies automatically clear outstanding Direct Debits back to customers on the anniversary of the start of the their contract. Ofgem estimates a return of at least £65 on average.To prevent suppliers increasing Direct Debits, Ofgem is proposing a threshold for these payments which will be decided on later in the year.&nbsp;Ed Dodman, director of regulatory affairs at the Energy Ombudsman, said:"Just as people are expected to pay their energy bills on time, we think it's fair to expect energy suppliers to do the same with refunds.""We know from looking at complaints that suppliers can sometimes take too long to issue refunds, which can be stressful for consumers."Tom Lyon, director of energy here at Energy Helpline, said:&nbsp;“We welcome measures to mandate energy suppliers to automatically return credit to their customers, as currently the onus is often unfairly on consumers to chase companies when they are owed money.&nbsp;Also, by limiting the amount of cash held,&nbsp;Ofgem’s proposals would also reduce the cost to industry and consumers if a supplier ceased to trade.”Main story: <a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-56413991">BBC News</a>

Ofgem has proposed outstanding balances are cleared once a year, which would prevent suppliers holding thousands of pounds worth of overpayments that are only returned when requested by customers. 

Refunds coming for consumers with high Direct Debits, Ofgem says

Customers who pay too much on their energy could receive automatic annual refunds. 

<h3>High charging costs are one of the largest reasons behind consumers not making the switch to battery-powered electric vehicles (BEV), our own research suggests.</h3>Our own findings have discovered that almost two-thirds (64%) of consumers believe electric vehicles cost up to £50 to charge fully at home, despite new analysis showing battery powered electric vehicles cost between £6-£17 to fully charge, which is less than the £23.20 a week the average UK household spends filling up their cars*.&nbsp;While some models offer an estimated 270 miles out of one charge^, it's a common misconception that EV mileage isn't up to standard. 38% of consumers said that the distance per charge was of concern to them if they were to switch to an electric vehicle, and 44% spoke about the lack of charging points across the UK as a cause for concern despite major plans for "substantial growth."Tom Lyon, our Director of Energy here at Energy Helpline, said:&nbsp;“Electric-only vehicles have come a long way over the last ten years, but our research reveals that there’s a clear disparity between perception and reality, with BEV cars costing as little as four pence a mile to run using electricity charged at home."“To help the UK meet its carbon reduction targets, it’s vital to do even more to boost uptake in the technology. Energy suppliers have a clear role to play in helping motorists make the move to electric vehicles. By offering special tariffs and providing access to competitively priced on-street charging, suppliers can help dispel misconceptions around electric cars to actively encourage uptake."“Not only is charging far more cost effective than filling up at the petrol station, switching tariffs will help cut charging costs. Suppliers such as Bulb and OVO offer EV plans aimed at electric car owners, providing benefits such as free access to public charging and lower at home rates for overnight charging, and we’d encourage more suppliers to do the same.”Table: Average at home charging costs of most popular BEV models in the UK&nbsp;<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Model</td><td>&nbsp;Cost per full charge+</td><td>&nbsp;Est. cost per mile+</td><td>&nbsp;Est. miles per full charge</td></tr><tr><td>Volkswagen e-Golf</td><td>£6.06</td><td>£0.05</td><td>121.67</td></tr><tr><td>Hyundai IONIQ Electric</td><td>£6.44</td><td>£0.04</td><td>161.90</td></tr><tr><td>Kia e-Niro 39 kWh</td><td>£6.63</td><td>£0.04</td><td>152.84</td></tr><tr><td>Nissan LEAF</td><td>£6.82</td><td>£0.05</td><td>142.86</td></tr><tr><td>Nissan E-NV200</td><td>£6.82</td><td>£0.06</td><td>105.26</td></tr><tr><td>Renault Zoe R110 ZE40</td><td>£7.01</td><td>£0.04</td><td>158.80</td></tr><tr><td>Renault Zoe Q90 ZE40</td><td>£7.01</td><td>£0.05</td><td>148.59</td></tr><tr><td>BMW i3</td><td>£7.20</td><td>£0.04</td><td>163.79</td></tr><tr><td>Hyundai Kona 39kWh</td><td>£7.20</td><td>£0.05</td><td>153.85</td></tr><tr><td>BMW i3s</td><td>£7.20</td><td>£0.05</td><td>150.79</td></tr><tr><td>MG ZS</td><td>£7.58</td><td>£0.05</td><td>138.41</td></tr><tr><td>Renault Zoe R110 ZE50</td><td>£9.29</td><td>£0.04</td><td>206.75</td></tr><tr><td>Nissan LEAF 3.ZERO e+</td><td>£11.18</td><td>£0.05</td><td>203.45</td></tr><tr><td>Kia e-Niro 64 kWh</td><td>£12.13</td><td>£0.05</td><td>241.51</td></tr><tr><td>Hyundai Kona 64kWh</td><td>£12.13</td><td>£0.05</td><td>237.04</td></tr><tr><td>Tesla Model 3</td><td>£12.32</td><td>£0.05</td><td>270.83</td></tr><tr><td>Audi e-tron 50</td><td>£12.70</td><td>£0.08</td><td>160.29</td></tr><tr><td>Jaguar I-PACE</td><td>£16.30</td><td>£0.07</td><td>250.00</td></tr><tr><td>Audi e-tron 55</td><td>£17.06</td><td>£0.07</td><td>229.59</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>****Based on ONS data from <a href="https://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/personalandhouseholdfinances/expenditure/bulletins/familyspendingintheuk/april2018tomarch2019">Family spending in the UK: April 2018 to March 2019</a> (data available: <a href="https://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/personalandhouseholdfinances/expenditure/datasets/familyspendingworkbook1detailedexpenditureandtrends">Family spending in the UK: financial year ending 2019, table A11</a>)^Based on the average estimated usable battery and battery efficiency stats collated from <a href="https://pod-point.com/guides/vehicles?">Pod Point's Electric Vehicle Guides</a>&nbsp;+These costs are based on the national average cost per kWh of E.ON’s standard variable green tariff

High charging costs are one of the largest reasons behind consumers not making the switch to electric vehicles, our own research suggests. Energy suppliers should focus on appealing, affordable EV plans to encourage increase electric vehicle uptake. 

High EV charging cost main barrier in UK meeting 2035 zero emission target

Charging an electric vehicle to capacity can be cheaper than a refill at a petrol station, research suggests

<h3>Ministers have confirmed they are implementing an EU rule as promised, which aims to cut energy and bills while reducing the need for new materials.&nbsp;</h3>Come the summer, manufacturers will be legally obliged to make spare parts for products, with the aim to extend the lifespan of products by up to 10 years. Higher energy efficiency standards being introduced too will also see customers save an average of £75 a year on bills.&nbsp;These news rules have been estimated to reduce the 1.5 million tonnes of electrical waste the UK generates in a year, contributing to reducing carbon emissions.&nbsp;Business and Energy Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng said:&nbsp;"Our plans to tighten product standards will ensure more electrical goods can be fixed rather than thrown on the scrap heap - putting more money back in the pockets of consumers whilst protecting the environment."New energy labels have also been introduced this week to raise the bar from EU efficiency standards, which would usually see products graded in the top A group. Now very few appliances will make it into the top A group.&nbsp;Emilie Carmichael from the Energy Saving Trust said:&nbsp;"Simplifying the way energy efficiency is displayed on labels will help consumers to make more informed choices to reduce their energy consumption and bills.""The new regulations should come into force in the summer. They reflect what was agreed by the UK and the EU member states two years ago.""They will apply in Great Britain, while EU rules will continue to apply in Northern Ireland."Source: <a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-56340077">BBC News</a>

Ministers have confirmed they are implementing an EU rule as promised, which aims to cut energy and bills while reducing the need for new materials. 

Appliance 'right to repair' law coming this summer

While a new product efficiency grading system will see less products in the top group. 

<h3>Ofgem has discovered 18 energy suppliers who did not abide by the price protection rules, which protects a customers' tariff price when they switch suppliers or tariffs after a price increase.&nbsp;</h3>Some suppliers came forward to Ofgem and self-reported the issue, which resulted in Ofgem requesting all suppliers to self-assess. This process revealed 18 suppliers were not compliant between 2013-2020. In total, 7 million customers were altogether overcharged £7.2 million.&nbsp;The customers affected were:<ul><li>Those on a standard variable tariff who switched to another supplier</li><li>Those on a fixed tariff who switched to another supplier</li><li>Those on a fixed tariff who moved to another tariff with their supplier</li></ul>The failures were put down to suppliers not having the appropriate arrangements in place to ensure the protections were applied in full when customers switched.&nbsp;All suppliers have made refunds to the affected parties along with some goodwill payments. These refunds and redress payments of all suppliers involved come to the total of £10.4 million. &nbsp;Anna Rossington, interim director of retail at Ofgem said:“Customers should have confidence in switching and not be overcharged when doing so. This case sends a strong message to all suppliers that Ofgem will intervene where customers are overcharged and ensure that no supplier benefits from non-compliance."“It also shows that, where appropriate, Ofgem is prepared to work with suppliers who have failed to comply with the rules, but who are willing to self-report issues and put things right for their customers.”The suppliers, number of customers affected, and redress payments can be found in the table below:<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Supplier</td><td>Number of customers affected</td><td>Total detriment</td><td>Total redress package</td></tr><tr><td>Bristol Energy</td><td>12,617</td><td>£55,982.64</td><td>£56,552.64</td></tr><tr><td>British Gas/Centrica</td><td>141,415</td><td>£391,176.79</td><td>&nbsp;£1,269,095.47</td></tr><tr><td>E</td><td>20,870</td><td>£68,777.23</td><td>&nbsp;£72,772.93</td></tr><tr><td>E.ON</td><td>28,126</td><td>£181,668.29</td><td>£238,884.29</td></tr><tr><td>EDF</td><td>79,083</td><td>&nbsp;£465,441.36</td><td>£516,191.55</td></tr><tr><td>Engie</td><td>9,061</td><td>&nbsp;£12,803.98</td><td>£21,218.74</td></tr><tr><td>ESB Energy</td><td>1,961</td><td>£35,102.00</td><td>&nbsp;£49,787.00</td></tr><tr><td>Green Star Energy</td><td>79,083</td><td>£664,661.00</td><td>£808,351.00</td></tr><tr><td>npower</td><td>2,030</td><td>£24,207.69</td><td>£25,602.69&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>Octopus Energy</td><td>19,712</td><td>£59,902.15</td><td>£121,444.52</td></tr><tr><td>Orbit</td><td>723</td><td>£5,539.25</td><td>£7,081.12</td></tr><tr><td>OVO Energy</td><td>240,563</td><td>£2,001,196.45</td><td>£2,801,231.51</td></tr><tr><td>PFP Energy</td><td>5,347</td><td>£35,204.31</td><td>£50,929.31</td></tr><tr><td>Scottish Power</td><td>157,236</td><td>£1,449,835.28</td><td>£1,967,465.28</td></tr><tr><td>Shell</td><td>225,823</td><td>&nbsp;£1,001,203.40</td><td>£1,217,203.40</td></tr><tr><td>SO Energy</td><td>10,514</td><td>£59,723.56</td><td>£78,480.89</td></tr><tr><td>SSE</td><td>132,620</td><td>£713,973.86</td><td>£983,334.45</td></tr><tr><td>Utility Warehouse</td><td>2,723</td><td>£62,783.92</td><td>£95,512.15</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>Source:<a href="https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/publications-and-updates/18-energy-suppliers-pay-104-million-contract-renewal-failures"> Ofgem</a>&nbsp;

Ofgem has found 18 energy suppliers who did not abide by the price protection rules, which protects a customers' tariff price when they switch suppliers or tariffs after a price increase. 

18 suppliers to pay £10.4 million in refunds and redress payments

Ofgem found 18 suppliers failed to correctly protect customers' tariff prices when they looked to switch. 

<h3>Scottish Power raises the price of its default tariff to £1,138 - the upper limit of Ofgem's price cap set to take effect from 1st April.&nbsp;</h3>Customers on a Scottish Power default energy tariff will find themselves being charged the maximum amount a person can be charged for their energy, from 1st April.&nbsp;To avoid the price hikes, switch to a fixed energy deal to lock in your price-per-unit energy price which will protect you from the upcoming price rises.&nbsp;Enter your postcode on our homepage to <a href="https://www.energyhelpline.com/">start your energy switch today</a>.&nbsp;

Scottish Power raises the price of its default tariff to £1,138 - the upper limit of Ofgem's price cap set to take effect from 1st April. 

Scottish Power raises prices to the cap limit

£1,138 is the new standard default tariff price. 

<h3>SSE customers on standard variable tariffs and prepayment tariffs will be charged higher prices from 1st April.&nbsp;</h3>The energy supplier has raised the cost of its default tariff to £1,137.15.&nbsp;Customers can protect themselves from the price rises by switching to a fixed tariff with a set price per unit cost.&nbsp;<h3 style="text-align:center;"><a href="https://www.energyhelpline.com/">Compare deals today</a></h3>

From 1st April SSE will charge customers the limit of the cap.

SSE yet another to announce price rices

<h3>Following the news of the price cap rising, npower are the most recent energy supplier to announce a price increase.</h3>Ofgem's price cap will rise by £96 from 1st April, allowing suppliers to charge customers on default tariffs up to £1,138. <a href="https://www.energyhelpline.com/help/supplier-reviews/npower">npower</a> has recently reported they will charge the upper limit of the cap for all customers on standard variable tariffs.&nbsp;With many suppliers yet to announce an inevitable price increase, we'd suggest switching to a fixed tariff to lock in your price per unit and to protect yourself from the 1st April energy increase.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.energyhelpline.com/">Enter your postcode</a> to start your energy comparison today.&nbsp;

Ofgem's price cap will rise by £96 from 1st April, allowing suppliers to charge customers on default tariffs up to £1,138. npower has recently reported they will charge the upper limit of the cap for all customers on standard variable tariffs. 

npower is the most recent supplier to announce energy price rise

npower has repriced its default tariff to the cap of £1,138.

<h3>EDF has announced a 9% rise on its standard variable tariff, meaning customers on an SVT will now pay £1,138 annually from 1st April.&nbsp;</h3>The price cap news saw the cap for an SVT rise £96 from 1,042 to £1,138, which will take effect from 1st April, affecting all EDF customers on a default tariff.&nbsp;If you're an <a href="https://www.energyhelpline.com/help/supplier-reviews/edf-energy">EDF Energy</a> customer on a fixed tariff, you will not be subject to the price changes until you allow your tariff to expire and you are automatically put on EDF's default SVT. You can avoid this by comparing energy tariffs and switching to a better deal.&nbsp;<h3 style="text-align:center;">Compare energy suppliers today</h3>

EDF has announced a 9% rise on its standard variable tariff, meaning customers on a SVT will now pay £1,138 annually from 1st April, which is in line with Ofgem's price cap increase. 

EDF Energy raises its energy prices in line with price cap

EDF's standard variable tariff sees a 9% increase in cost. 

<h3>British Gas becomes the first big energy supplier to announce an energy price increase, which will take effect from 1st April 2021.&nbsp;</h3>Following Ofgem’s decision on 5th February to raise the energy price cap by £96 to £1,138, <a href="https://www.energyhelpline.com/help/supplier-reviews/british-gas">British Gas</a> has announced it is to increase the price of its average standard default tariff by £97, from £1,041 to £1,138 a year, affecting 2.3 million customers.Commenting on the news, Tom Lyon, director of energy at<a href="http://www.energyhelpline.com/"> Energy Helpline</a>, said:&nbsp;“News of this price rise - which amounts to an eye-watering £229million - couldn’t come at a worse time for British Gas customers, after almost a year coping with higher energy bills due to lockdown restrictions."“Although Ofgem has given a green light for price rises on default tariffs from April, energy suppliers are not obliged to hike the bills for hard-pressed consumers. We call on British Gas’ rivals to do the right thing by their customers and hold off any increases, especially as hopes rise for the easing of restrictions from the vaccine roll out."“With the number of homes in the red to their energy provider already at a record five-year high, the surge in debt is only set to get worse with the prospect of further price rises. That’s why we are also calling on the Government to look at ways to help households with spiralling energy costs, for example by temporarily cutting VAT and reforming the Cold Weather Payment so it better helps the most vulnerable to keep warm."“While the price cap affects some of the most expensive deals on the market, fixed deals are unaffected and switching to a competitive fixed tariff will lower bills and lock in prices for 12 months or more. However, rising wholesale costs have increased the prices of the most competitive tariffs on the market by 17% since last April, so consumers are strongly advised to switch and fix sooner rather than later."<h3>Switched to a fixed deal</h3>Fixed energy tariffs are immune to the price hikes. <a href="https://www.energyhelpline.com/">Switch today</a> to beat Ofgem's price cap increase.&nbsp;

British Gas becomes the first big energy supplier to announce an energy price increase, which will take effect from 1st April 2021. 

British Gas announces price hikes from April

British Gas raises the price of its default tariff to £1,138 a year, affecting 2.3m customers. 

<h3>In Stafford, NHS workers are able to ride e-scooters for free as part of a new trial scheme.</h3>The new trial scheme aims to test new methods of transport around Stafford to not only improve mobility but to also improve air quality, too.&nbsp;The University of Hospitals North Midlands Trust (UHNM) is one of the largest employers in the area, contributing to 3.5% of all road travel in England, which also includes the transportation of patients, visitors and NHS suppliers, not just employees. This equates to 14% of the NHS's total emissions.Jessica Brownsword, Sustainability Manager at UHNM, said:&nbsp;“This makes it easier for visitors to choose a healthier journey and encouraging staff to choose greener and more <a href="https://www.energylivenews.com/2020/03/27/public-transport-walking-and-cycling-need-to-become-primary-forms-of-transport/">active travel</a> options."“Being a part of this innovative trial goes a long way towards achieving our travel plan objectives and improving local <a href="https://www.energylivenews.com/2020/11/23/uks-air-quality-expert-group-seeks-evidence-on-fine-particulate-matter/">air quality,</a> a key focus for all Staffordshire authorities, through reducing our contribution to carbon emissions from petrol and diesel vehicles coming to the site.”Source: <a href="https://www.energylivenews.com/2021/02/15/scheme-offers-free-e-scooter-rides-for-nhs-workers/">Energy Live News</a>

The University of Hospitals North Midlands Trust (UHNM) is one of the largest employers in the area, contributing to 3.5% of all road travel in England, which also includes the transportation of patients, visitors and NHS suppliers, not just employees. This equates to 14% of the NHS's total emissions.

NHS employees offered free e-scooter rides in Stafford

The University of Hospitals North Midlands Trust is the first to join an e-scooter trial. 

<h3>With the announcement of the price cap and energy suppliers able to raise the prices on default tariffs, we’re urging the Government to improve the Cold Weather Payment to better support the most vulnerable.</h3>While figures have revealed that 3.65 million people are eligible for Government aid, only 7,000 met the Cold Weather Payment requirements for financial help last winter.&nbsp;For the vulnerable who are eligible for the Cold Weather Payment - such as those on Pension Credit and those on income support - receive £25 toward their energy bill. However, this can only occur if the person experiences temperatures of 0°C and below for seven consecutive days.&nbsp;Although it’s rare that places across the UK drop and stay below 0°C for such a sustained period of time according to Met Office average weather data over the past 30 years. This leaves households left unable to qualify for vital help with bills, even when heating is still a must at far milder temperatures.The call for changes to the Cold Weather Payment scheme follows a recent Freedom of Information request by Energy Helpline, which found that the number of UK consumers in energy debt to their electricity provider hit a five-year high of 770,000 in Q3 of 2020.Tom Lyon, director of energy at Energy Helpline, said:&nbsp;“With last week’s energy price cap rise announcement and ever-increasing financial pressure due to the pandemic, it’s vital that Government schemes are properly helping those most in need.”“High energy costs disproportionately hurt the most vulnerable, especially during the colder months. While the Cold Weather Payment scheme is designed to help, payments are being made out to less than 1% of those eligible as the current criteria doesn’t align with the normal British climate.”“By increasing the minimum temperature criteria, for example, the scheme would better reflect the nation’s actual weather, increasing the number of vulnerable people claiming support they need to stay warm. We’d strongly encourage the Government to review the criteria for Cold Weather Payments as part of the wide-ranging reforms of the Energy White Paper.”“For those not eligible for support, the first step is to check they’re not languishing on expensive tariffs, and to switch to competitive fixed deals that can be 20% cheaper than standard variable plans.”For more information on eligibility and claiming the Cold Weather Payment, please visit <a href="https://www.energyhelpline.com/help/a-guide-to-the-cold-weather-payment">our guide to the Cold Weather Payment</a>.&nbsp;

Energy Helpline is urging the Government to improve the aid the Cold Weather Payment provides to Britain's most vulnerable households, with only 7,000 people qualifying last winter for this government scheme.

Energy Helpline urges Government to support most vulnerable

Just 7,000 qualified for the Cold Weather Payment last winter. 

<h3>Ofgem has announced that the price cap for standard variable tariffs has risen by £96 and prepayment meter tariffs by £87, which will take effect from 1 April 2021.</h3>This news means that the annual cap for SVTs will be £1,138, up from £1,042, which again, will take effect from the start of April 2021.The price cap rise paves the way for suppliers to hike their prices, and these announcements are expected in due course.It has been speculated for some time that the price cap announcement would see an increase, with wholesale energy prices beginning to recover from the slump they took during the first coronavirus lockdown.&nbsp;For the first time in a while, we’re seeing the wholesale prices of gas and electricity increase, and energy customers could be set to bear the brunt.&nbsp;Will the price cap changes affect you?&nbsp;The price cap increases the price per unit of energy you pay, which means your bill might go up if you’re on standard variable tariff (SVT) or prepayment meter tariff, making them the most expensive deals on the market.&nbsp;The best course of action is to <a href="https://www.energyhelpline.com/">switch to a cheaper deal</a> such as a fixed tariff, which offers a set price and are protected from being affected by the most recent price cap changes.&nbsp;Tom Lyon, director of energy at<a href="http://www.energyhelpline.com/"> </a>Energy Helpline, said:&nbsp;&nbsp;“Today’s announcement gives suppliers a green light to hike prices for millions of consumers who are already struggling with higher bills due to lockdown restrictions.“The number of households in energy debt to their electricity provider has already hit a five-year high, with 777,000 owing money to their provider between July and September last year – the highest figure since 2015 [1]. This price cap rise is a hammer-blow for customers and will only increase the surge of energy debt this year across the country.“It’s particularly unfortunate that price rises sanctioned by the cap will disproportionately affect the most vulnerable groups in society, including the elderly and low-income families.“Although suppliers will be allowed to raise default tariffs prices, they do not have to. We call on providers to hold off any price increases to help households continuing to be hit hard by the pandemic, as hopes rise for the easing of restrictions from the vaccine roll out. Even just holding off for a few months could help with the financial survival of millions of consumers nationwide.“While the price cap affects some of the most expensive deals on the market, fixed deals are unaffected and switching to a competitive fixed tariff will lower bills and lock in prices for 12 months or more. However, rising wholesale costs have increased the prices of the most competitive tariffs on the market by 17% since last April, so consumers are strongly advised to switch and fix sooner rather than later.”Compare and switch to saveUse our comparison site to browse some of the best energy deals on the UK market right now and get ahead of the price cap.&nbsp;To get started, just enter your postcode followed by some usage details and we’ll be able to show you a list for you to browse.<a href="https://www.energyhelpline.com/">Start your switch now</a>

Due to the increase in wholesale energy prices, Ofgem has announced that its price cap has risen by £96, bringing the annual capped price up to £1,138 from the previous cost of £1,042.

Price cap rises by £96 - switch to avoid bill surges

Switching energy suppliers remains the most efficient way to beat the price hikes.

<h3>Green Network Energy and Simplicity Energy have ceased trading, leaving around 400,000 energy customers without an energy supplier.&nbsp;</h3>However, as always, all customers are protected under Ofgem's safety net, which means any outstanding credit balances will be honoured.&nbsp;Ofgem will choose the new energy supplier who will take on both energy supplier's customers, who will contact them when the decision has been made.&nbsp;It's important to note that these customers should not switch until a new energy supplier has been appointed to them, and to take a meter reading ready for their new supplier when they make contact. This ensures paying any outstanding credits balances are paid back in full without any inconveniences.&nbsp;Philippa Pickford, Director of Retail at Ofgem, said:“Green Network Energy and Simplicity Energy customers do not need to worry, as under our safety net we’ll make sure your energy supplies are secure and domestic customers’ credit balances are protected."“Ofgem will now choose a new supplier for you and whilst we are doing this our advice is to wait until we appoint a new supplier and do not switch in the meantime. You can rely on your energy supply as normal. We will update you when we have chosen a new supplier, who will then get in touch about your new tariff.”Source: <a href="https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/publications-and-updates/ofgem-protects-customers-failed-suppliers-green-network-energy-and-simplicity-energy">Ofgem</a>

Green Network Energy and Simplicity Energy have ceased trading, leaving around 400,000 energy customers without an energy supplier. 

Green Network and Simplicity Energy cease trading, Ofgem protects customers

Ofgem protects customers of two failed energy suppliers. 

<h3>The last four of Symbio Energy's payments into the renewables schemes have been late, only paying the fees in response to Ofgem's enforcement.&nbsp;</h3>Ofgem has proposed a £100,000 fine, which will be reduced to £85,000 if Symbio Energy agrees to settle.&nbsp;2020 saw Symbio miss obligatory payment deadlines into the Renewables Obligation (RO) scheme, while also failing to present the required number of RO certificates by the deadlines of 31st August and 1st September 2020. Symbio also paid a payment due 31st October two weeks late, while also missing three other payment deadlines over a four-month period.&nbsp;Senior management were aware that the company was breaking rules by missing payment deadlines and did not prevent the rule-breaking from taking place.Ofgem recognises the difficulties Covid-19 has caused, but other suppliers have met the payments on time regardless. However, Symbio has since made all payments totalling around £1.2 million.&nbsp;Cathryn Scott, Ofgem’s Director of Enforcement and Emerging Issues, said:“Schemes like the Renewables Obligation and Feed-in Tariff provide vital support to renewable electricity generators and are crucial to building a green energy system, helping Britain hit Government net zero carbon emissions targets."“Suppliers that do not make payments on time undermine the integrity of these schemes, gain unfairly financially, and ultimately leave consumers and other suppliers to pick up the tab."“This proposed fine sends a strong message that Ofgem will not tolerate suppliers who do not meet their obligations around paying into these schemes and that growth cannot be at the expense of meeting regulatory obligations.”Source: <a href="https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/publications-and-updates/ofgem-proposes-fine-symbio-energy-100000-late-payments-government-renewables-schemes">Ofgem</a>

The last four of Symbio Energy's payments into the renewables schemes have been late, only paying the fees in response to Ofgem's enforcement. Ofgem has proposed a £100,000 fine, which will be reduced to £85,000 if Symbio Energy agrees to settle. 

Ofgem could fine Symbio Energy £100,000

Late payments into the Government renewables schemes could prove costly for Symbio energy.

Ofgem could fine Symbio Energy £100,000 for late payments

<h3>Ofgem has suggested the creation of an independent body to pave the way to net zero at the lowest cost for energy consumers.&nbsp;</h3>The new independent body would be separate from the National Grid and would help charge millions of EVs, creating a huge surge in renewable power while maintaining secure energy suppliers.&nbsp;Ofgem has estimated an independent body running the electricity system could save consumers £0.4-£4.8 billion between 2022 and 2050.&nbsp;Responsibilities of the new independent body could see them taking a more active role in planning and designing a new grid infrastructure, while also providing advice on other ways to hit net zero targets.&nbsp;Jonathan Brearley, chief executive of Ofgem, said:“The energy system needs to go undergo the biggest transformation in over a century to meet Britain’s ambitious climate goals."“Ofgem is recommending the creation of an independent body to help deliver the fundamental changes in how we use energy."“This would help bring forward green economic growth, accelerate our journey towards net zero and save consumers money on their energy bills.”&nbsp;Kwasi Kwarteng, Business and Energy Secretary, said:“As the first major economy to commit in law to net zero carbon emissions by 2050, the UK is leading the green industrial revolution."“Meeting our far-reaching targets will mean changes to how we turn the lights on, travel to work and even cook our meals. Which is why we must ensure that the energy system is designed to provide the very best for consumers and allows energy companies to keep innovating as we build back greener."“I welcome Ofgem’s contribution to the debate over the future structure of our energy system and will consider its recommendations thoroughly." &nbsp;Source: <a href="https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/publications-and-updates/ofgem-recommends-independent-body-help-lead-britain-s-green-transformation">Ofgem</a>

Ofgem has suggested the creation of an independent body to pave the way to net zero at the lowest cost for energy consumers. 

Ofgem looks to create green independent body for net zero

Ofgem looks to establish someone to pave the way for green transformation. 

<h3>We’re running another competition that gives you the chance to win your energy bills paid for a whole year.&nbsp;</h3>According to Ofgem, the average price of an energy bill in the UK is £1,042, and that’s the exact amount you’ll receive via cheque if you win our competition.&nbsp;<h3>So how do you enter?&nbsp;</h3>All you have to do to enter is use our comparison site to switch your energy supplier between 18th January and 15th February.&nbsp;If you’re our lucky winner, you’ll be notified within 5 days of the competition closing date.&nbsp;We ran the same competition in November, when one lucky person switched for the first time ever, saving herself £161 in the process, while also netting the £1,042 prize.&nbsp;<h3>Ready to enter?&nbsp;</h3><h4><a href="https://www.energyhelpline.com/">SWITCH TODAY</a></h4>

Energy Helpline has another competition for its switchers, giving customers the chance to win their energy bills paid for, for a whole year - and all you have to do to enter is switch! 

Energy Helpline to pay one lucky winner's annual energy bills

Switch to enter our energy giveaway competition! 

During the first lockdown of 2020, consumers were warned of increasing energy bills due to more time spent at home consuming gas and electricity. The start of 2021 could very well see a similar trend, but this time wholesale energy prices could make matters more expensive.&nbsp;While people were using more energy at home during the Spring lockdown of 2020, businesses were not, which resulted in an unusually low demand for electricity, making wholesale energy prices fall.&nbsp;As the wholesale market still continues to recover from its all-time low slump in 2020, we could we expect our energy bills to increase beyond their usual cost as we see energy consumption return to its usual rate.&nbsp;Tom Lyon, Director of Energy here at Energy Helpline, says:&nbsp;“Wholesale energy prices, which make around half of energy bills, have continued to increase since the spring as markets recover from the height of the global pandemic." &nbsp;“This, in turn, has helped raise the cost of the cheapest fixed tariff by 8% or £63 a year since April - so now is a good time to fix if you’re looking to switch."“Standard Variable Tariffs are capped by the regulator Ofgem. The cap is reviewed twice a year and although it came down in October, it’s likely that - given rising wholesale costs - it could go up next March. Ofgem has also floated plans to raise the cap to cover bad debts, adding further to the risk of more expensive variable deals in 2021.""Unfortunately, we expect to see energy debt - already high as a result of increased energy use at home - rising even further among consumers into next year, as higher prices and a worsening economic outlook put additional pressure on household finances."“One of the biggest developments to affect the industry in 2021 will be the consultation in response to the Government’s recent Energy White Paper. With regard to proposals to roll out so-called opt-in switching, the reality is that millions of consumers are stuck on poor-value Standard Variable Tariffs and so it's only right to look at all ways to help them move to better deals."“Energy Helpline helped Ofgem with its successful opt-in trials in 2018 and 2019, where we saved over 40,000 customers a total of £11m, and so we are pleased to see these measures being progressed. We look forward to working with Government and the regulator to make sure the proposals are implemented in the right way, so that it helps increase market competition and reduces bills for consumers."“We are also pleased to see proposals in the White Paper to extend the Warm Homes Discount to help more of the most vulnerable, as well as making the green credentials of renewable tariffs even more transparent to help customers make the most informed decision."<h3>Switch to avoid the wholesale price hike</h3>Wholesale energy prices are rising, but that doesn't mean consumers have to be hit hardest by them. You have control over your energy supplier, meaning you can opt for the cheapest energy deals on the market right now.&nbsp;Get started by using our comparison service. Just click below to begin:&nbsp;<h3><a href="https://www.energyhelpline.com/">Switch for free today</a></h3>

During the first lockdown of 2020, consumers were warned of increasing energy bills due to more time spent at home consuming gas and electricity. The start of 2021 could very well see a similar trend, but this time wholesale energy prices could make matters more expensive. 

Lockdown set to cause energy price hikes in 2021

Energy costs are likely to increase as wholesale energy prices rise. 

<h3>With the Covid restrictions set to cost the UK £444m on Christmas and New Year Energy bills, we’ve decided to give switchers the chance to claim £50 between now and 31st December.&nbsp;</h3>Each household in the UK is expected to face an extra £26 when their December bills come through due to more homes being used to celebrate Christmas this year.&nbsp;Customers who switch before 31st December 2020 via <a href="http://www.energyhelpline.com/merrygivemas">www.energyhelpline.com/merrygivemas</a> will be able to claim up to £50 us, providing the equivalent of free energy for more than 13 days across the festive season and into the new year!&nbsp;Our own research has revealed that the new restrictions - which has replaced the five-day rule over the Christmas period - will leave the nation with a £273m energy bill. And with the UK set to go back into a stricter tiered system post-festivities, the nation can expect to enter 2021 with a combined energy bill of up to £205m if all regions are asked to see in the New Year with no household mixing.The research breaks down how much Brits would be spending depending on the various restriction levels:<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>&nbsp;</td><td>No mixing allowed</td><td>2 households mixing</td><td>3 households mixing</td><td>4 households mixing</td><td>5 households mixing</td></tr><tr><td>No of UK Households</td><td>27,600,000</td><td>13,800,000</td><td>9,200,000</td><td>6,900,000</td><td>5,520,000</td></tr><tr><td>Cost of festive energy for UK (up to)</td><td>£512,150,137</td><td>£256,075,068</td><td>£170,716,712</td><td>£128,037,534</td><td>£102,430,027</td></tr><tr><td>Cost of NYE energy (2 days) based on no mixing</td><td>£204,860,055</td><td>£204,860,055</td><td>£204,860,055</td><td>£204,860,055</td><td>£204,860,055</td></tr><tr><td>TOTAL COST</td><td>£717,010,192</td><td>£460,935,123</td><td>£375,576,767</td><td>£332,897,589</td><td>£307,290,082</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>Source:<a href="https://www.energyhelpline.com/"> energyhelpline.com</a>Tom Lyon, Director of Energy at energyhelpline.com, says:&nbsp;“Switching energy tariffs can save consumers up to £289 a year, but given energy use will be higher this festive season than usual, we wanted to do something to reduce the impact on consumers’ bills.”“After the year we’ve all had, we wanted to offer a small gesture to help households worry less this festive season.”*This article was originally published on December 10th 2020, and was updated with new information on December 23rd 2021.

With the Covid restrictions set to cost the UK £375m on Christmas and New Year Energy bills, we’ve decided to give switchers the chance to claim £50 between now and 31st December. 

Energy Helpline offers to cover the cost of added festive energy

With December bills due to rise, switch with us and help us cover the extra cost. 

Energy Helpline offers to cover the cost of added festive and New Year energy

We’re always looking to get energy switchers onto the best deals around, and this Christmas there are some great prices and tariffs available. We’ve chosen our top 5 deals from different suppliers, and you can<a href="https://www.energyhelpline.com/"> switch to any of them</a> today. We’ve chosen them based on a range of factors, including average saving and tariff features.The market is always changing though, so be quick if you want to take advantage of these fixed prices.1. E.ON - Boxing Day Exclusive | Only available through Energy Helpline | Save £130<ul><li>New customers only</li><li>Energy Helpline exclusive</li><li>Only available until 7th January</li><li>Prices fixed for 15 months</li><li>Cancellation fees apply</li><li>£912 annual cost (average)</li></ul><a href="https://www.energyhelpline.com/">Switch to this deal</a>2. Green Network Energy - GNE Essential Green V3 &nbsp;| Only available through price comparison websites | Save £127<ul><li>Exclusive to price comparison websites</li><li>100% renewable electricity</li><li>Prices fixed for 12 months</li><li>Paperless billing</li><li>Cancellation fees apply</li><li>£915 annual cost (average)</li></ul><a href="https://www.energyhelpline.com/">Switch to this deal</a>3. Octopus Energy - Octopus 12M Fixed September 2020v2 | Save £89<ul><li>Highly rated supplier - 4.8/5 on Trustpilot (40,000+ reviews, December 2020)</li><li>No cancellation fees or tie-in</li><li>Prices fixed for 12 months</li><li>100% green electricity</li><li>Paperless billing</li><li>£953 annual cost (average)</li></ul><a href="https://www.energyhelpline.com/">Switch to this deal</a>4. EDF Energy - Simply Online 2 Year Fix Jan23v3 | Big Six exclusive | Save £85<ul><li>Big Six exclusive - only available on price comparison sites</li><li>100% zero-carbon nuclear electricity</li><li>Prices fixed until 31st January 2023</li><li>Cancellation fees apply</li><li>Smart meter installation required</li><li>£957 annual cost average</li></ul><a href="https://www.energyhelpline.com/">Switch to this deal</a>5. OVO Energy - Better Energy 03 December 2020 &nbsp;| save £54<ul><li>OVO Carbon Tracker - track your footprint</li><li>Prices fixed for 12 months</li><li>100% green electricity</li><li>Carbon-busting tree planted each year</li><li>Smart meter installation at no extra cost</li><li>Cancellation fees apply</li><li>£988 annual cost (average)</li></ul><a href="https://www.energyhelpline.com/">Switch to this deal</a>All annual prices are based on an average UK home paying by monthly Direct Debit on a standard gas and electricity tariff with a Big Six supplier.Average usage is currently defined by the energy regulator Ofgem as 12,000 kWh of gas and 2,900 kWh of electricity per year.If your usage is higher or lower than this, the rates will be fixed and the amount you pay will depend on your usage.The savings are calculated against the current typical cost of a UK gas and electricity bill of £1,042 a year. All figures are correct as of 23rd December 2020

We’re always looking to get energy switchers onto the best deals, and this Christmas there are some great prices. Now we’ve chosen our top 5 energy deals.

Our Top 5 Christmas Energy Deals

We’ve chosen our top 5 energy deals available over Christmas, including an E.ON exclusive.

Our top 5 Christmas energy deals

<h3>Ofgem's annual report on the Warm Home Discount (WHD) shows that vulnerable customers received over £348m worth of support from energy suppliers last winter.</h3>Amidst last winter, all 19 suppliers met their WHD obligations in full, with British Gas paying the most due to having the largest number of vulnerable customers and the biggest share of the obligation.&nbsp;On Monday it was announced the government was extending the Warm Homes Discount until 2026, which was originally meant to expire in March 2021.&nbsp;Ofgem expects more customers to be eligible to receive support under the WHD this winter due to the economic and health impacts of COVID-19.Jonathan Brearley, chief executive of Ofgem, said:“For the last nine years, the Warm Home Discount scheme has provided a lifeline to some of the most vulnerable in our society who struggle to heat and light their homes during the winter in particular."“Ofgem will continue to work closely with government and suppliers to ensure that consumers get the support they need in the difficult months ahead as we help to build a fairer, greener energy system.”Kwasi Kwarteng, energy minister, said: &nbsp;“The Warm Home Discount has already helped millions of vulnerable customers and through our commitment to extend the scheme in the Energy White Paper, we will continue helping those most in need with paying their energy bills."“We have committed to extending the Warm Home Discount to 2026, and from 2022 it will already be reaching nearly three million people, providing £475 million a year for those who need it most.”&nbsp;Source: <a href="https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/publications-and-updates/record-348-million-support-provided-vulnerable-consumers-through-warm-home-discount">Ofgem</a>

Ofgem's annual report on the Warm Home Discount (WHD) shows that vulnerable customers received over £348m worth of support from energy suppliers last winter.

A record £348 million in support provided to vulnerable consumers

Vulnerable consumers received a record amount of support through the Warm Home Discount. 

<h3>Energy UK's latest electricity switching figures reveal that 490,460 customers switched to a new energy supplier in November - just 2.5% behind the same time in 2019.&nbsp;</h3>These figures bring total switch numbers in 2020 to nearly 5.5 million, just 6.5% shy of total switch figures this time last year.&nbsp;Emma Pinchbeck, Energy UK’s chief executive said:“With the Energy White Paper published this week looking at ways of further increasing customer engagement with their energy use, it’s good to see that nearly half a million customers last month actively sought out a good deal. And even in a year where people’s attention has understandably been on other issues, nearly 5.5 million customers have switched during 2020."“With winter here and many of us spending more time indoors due to the ongoing restrictions, it’s well worth spending a few minutes to check you’re on the best deal - either by contacting your own supplier or shopping around to see what’s offer in a very competitive market."“I’d also urge everyone who can to consider making their homes more energy efficient, for example by applying for the Green Homes Grants scheme. This is still the best way to help save money on bills in the longer term and reduce our contribution to climate change by cutting emissions from our homes.”Source: <a href="https://www.energy-uk.org.uk/media-and-campaigns/press-releases/463-2020/7734-nearly-half-a-million-switch-in-november.html">Energy UK</a>

Energy UK's latest electricity switching figures reveal that 490,460 customers switched to a new energy supplier in November - just 2.5% behind the same time in 2019. These figures bring total switch numbers in 2020 to nearly 5.5 million, just 6.5% shy of total switch figures this time last year. 

Almost half a million switch suppliers in November 

Energy switching remains prevalent in 2020 despite Covid-19. 

<h3>Ofgem has confirmed that funding has been unlocked to help boost green and smart investment in local grids via RIIO-ED2.</h3>RIIO-ED2 is the price control for electricity distribution networks (DNOs) which run for five years from April 2023.&nbsp;Electricity distribution networks (DNOs) transport electricity locally to Britain's homes and businesses, and are crucial in eliminating emissions. As we move to greener methods of energy generation, our DNOs will have to enhance their capacity to deal with the demand, and Ofgem's investment will help to do this.&nbsp;Local grids are expected to support up to 11 million electric vehicles by 2030 and harness company data to drive smarter and more flexible energy. Ofgem have also suggested a fairer balance between shareholders and consumers, re-directing investment to support Net Zero while keeping costs as low as possible.&nbsp;According to Ofgem in their most recent press release, its proposed price control for DNOs will:&nbsp;<ul><li>Support strategic investment to deliver net zero emissions targets ensuring companies can increase capacity to support growing demand, for example providing more charge points ahead of an anticipated uptick in electric vehicle use, with appropriate protections in place for consumers.</li><li>Require DNOs to grow their capacity using ‘flexible’ solutions where they can, such as battery storage or smoothing peaks in demand, before building expensive new network capacity.</li><li>Increase digitalisation of the energy system, requiring electricity network companies to better share and coordinate data on local energy use – including sharing this with flexibility providers.</li><li>Ensure the companies support an accelerating and increasingly decentralised energy market, requiring new Distribution System Operation (DSO) responsibilities, with enhanced capabilities in planning, operation, and market services.</li><li>Retain a strong innovation stimulus through direct funding and access to the new £450 million Strategic Innovation Fund, with more if needed, to drive the decarbonisation of power, heat and transport at a lower cost than current technology allows.</li><li>Maintain the current high levels of reliability and customer satisfaction while making sure that the most vulnerable consumers get additional support when they need it.</li><li>Ensure less of consumers’ money goes towards network companies’ profits, and more towards investing in network capacity to fight climate change.</li></ul>Here's what Ofgem’s Chief Executive Jonathan Brearley said in its most recent press release:“Local electricity networks will be at the forefront of meeting the climate change ambitions laid out recently by the Governments in the UK, Scotland and Wales. They will need to, make sure the right arrangements are in place to support the capacity and charging infrastructure that will drive the electric vehicle revolution and the solutions needed to provide cleaner energy for heating our homes."“This will require a more modern, smarter, digitally enabled grid that evolves in line with rapidly changing demands and maximises the benefits from all available energy assets."“Our approach to our price control for electricity distribution will encourage the investment needed to deliver these ambitions while maintaining world class levels of reliability and keeping costs as low as possible for consumers.”To see Ofgem's original source regarding this story, click <a href="https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/publications-and-updates/ofgem-confirms-approach-boosting-green-and-smart-investment-local-grids">here</a>.&nbsp;

Ofgem has confirmed that funding has been unlocked to help boost green and smart investment in local grids via RIIO-ED2. RIIO-ED2 is the price control for electricity distribution networks (DNOs) which run for five years from April 2023. 

Ofgem unlocks funding to boost green investment

Investment is local grids has been confirmed, Ofgem announces. 

<h3>EDF Energy (Thermal Generation) Limited (EDF ETG) sent misleading signals to the National Grid Systems Operator (ESO) about the capabilities of its generation plant between September 2017 and March 2020.&nbsp;</h3>Ofgem found EDF ETG frequently inflated the minimum amount of power that its West Burton B (WBB) generator plant could supply. EDF ETG did this when the plant was not even planning to generate any energy, and in many cases, meant the ESO has to purchase more energy from the plant than needed.&nbsp;As a result, EDF ETG breached it electricity generation license obligations for not complying with the Grid Code. Ofgem has deemed that for providing "false or misleading signals" regarding the supply of their wholesale energy products, EDF ETG had breached Article 5 of REMIT.&nbsp;Ofgem recognises that EDF ETG did not recognise that their actions would result in increased overall balancing costs for the ESO, and instead considered that its approach could allow it to provide the ESO with lower prices by trying to recover its costs over greater volume.&nbsp;EDF ETG has admitted to the breach of Article 5 and has taken action to prevent it from happening again. They have also agreed to pay £6 million into Ofgem's voluntary redress fund.&nbsp;Cathryn Scott at Ofgem said:“This case further demonstrates Ofgem’s commitment to monitoring wholesale energy markets in Great Britain and ensuring their integrity on behalf of consumers..”“Ofgem’s enforcement action sends a strong signal to all energy market participants that they must submit accurate data to the ESO. If they don’t, we have the powers to intervene and we are ready to use them.”Source: <a href="https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/publications-and-updates/edf-energy-thermal-generation-limited-agrees-pay-6-million-breaching-wholesale-energy-market-regulations">Ofgem</a>For more information of EDF as a supplier, check out our <a href="https://www.energyhelpline.com/help/supplier-reviews/edf-energy">EDF Energy review</a>.&nbsp;

EDF Energy (Thermal Generation) Limited (EDF ETG) sent misleading signals to the National Grid Systems Operator (ESO) about the capabilities of its generation plant between September 2017 and March 2020. 

EDF ETG to pay £6 million for market regulation breach

EDF Energy (Thermal Generation) fined for submitting false technical data about its generation plant.

<h3>Ofgem has finalised its price control for the RIIO-2 Framework 2021-26, confirming a huge investment that will improve and reduce the cost of services to customers and the impact energy networks are having on the environment.</h3>£30 billion upfront funding will be issued to the network companies that supply gas and electricity round Britain, which will enable Ofgem to give the go ahead on crucial service, maintenance, upgrades and repairs to take place.&nbsp;Ofgem is also making available funding for future green projects. Over the next five years companies can make propositions to Ofgem aimed at eliminating emissions from the energy system, and Ofgem will give the green-light accordingly.&nbsp;As much as another £10 billion could be available for these green projects, however there is no limit, it is just subject to companies and the propositions they make to Ofgem.&nbsp;Energy customers will also see a £2.3 billion saving over the course of the RIIO-2 Framework, equivalent to an average bill reduction of £10 after inflation. This is due to greater efficiency from companies and lowering returns on shareholders by 40% to bring them in line with current market levels.&nbsp;Ofgem’s Chief Executive Jonathan Brearley said:&nbsp;“Our £40 billion package massively boosts clean energy investment. This will ensure that our network companies can deliver on the climate change ambitions laid out by the Prime Minister last week, whilst maintaining world-leading levels of reliability."“These costs must fall fairly for consumers. We are reducing the amount paid to shareholders so that they are closer to current market levels. This means that companies can attract the vital investment we need whilst making sure that consumer don’t pay more than is necessary to achieve this."“We are also ensuring that £132 million is earmarked to support the most vulnerable in society, including carbon monoxide initiatives and funding new connections for those most struggling with their bills.”Source: <a href="https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/publications-and-updates/ofgem-gives-go-ahead-40-billion-investment-programme-stronger-greener-and-fairer-gb-energy-system">Ofgem</a>

Ofgem has finalised its price control for the RIIO-2 Framework 2021-26, confirming a huge investment that will improve and reduce the cost of services to customers and the impact energy networks are having on the environment.

Ofgem confirms £40 billion+ investment for a greener GB 

A major investment programme is on its way to improve Britain's energy infrastructure. 

<h3>Scottish Power has been named the energy supplier to take on Yorkshire Energy's (also known as Daisy Energy) 74,000-strong customer base.</h3>Along with a competitive tariff, Scottish Power will also honour outstanding credit balances, including money owed to both existing and former customers of Yorkshire Energy.&nbsp;The energy supply of existing customers will remain the same, and the switch to the Scottish Power tariff will take place on 6th December 2020.&nbsp;Customers will be contacted within the coming days to let them know more. If customers wish to switch energy suppliers once they've seen the tariff they're going to be put on, they will not be charged an exit fee.&nbsp;Philippa Pickford, Ofgem’s director of retail, said:“I am pleased to announce we have appointed Scottish Power for the customers of Yorkshire Energy. Their energy supply will continue as normal and domestic customer credit balances will be honoured.“Scottish Power will be in contact with customers over the coming days with further information. Once the transfer has been completed, customers can shop around for a better deal if they wish to.”If you're a Yorkshire Energy customer you can <a href="https://www.energyhelpline.com/">switch your energy</a> with us, but wait until you've been contacted by Scottish Power telling you you're new tariff has taken effect before you do!&nbsp;Source: <a href="https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/publications-and-updates/ofgem-appoints-scottish-power-take-customers-yorkshire-energy">Ofgem</a>

Scottish Power has been named the energy supplier to take on Yorkshire Energy's (also known as Daisy Energy) 74,000-strong customer base.

New supplier found for Yorkshire Energy customers

Ofgem has appointed Scottish Power to take on the customers of Yorkshire Energy.

<h3>Yorkshire Energy (Daisy Energy) has announced it is ceasing to trade, leaving Ofgem to protect its 74,000-strong customer base.</h3>As always, Ofgem will protect these customers and honour any outstanding credit balances, ensuring all customers are looked after following Yorkshire Energy's news.&nbsp;Ofgem will choose a new supplier for Yorkshire Energy's customers, who will then contact these customers shortly afterwards.&nbsp;Ofgem's advice for Yorkshire Energy customers is to not switch until a new supplier has been appointed and contact has been made, and to take a meter reading to ensure fair and accurate billing when the new supplier contacts you.&nbsp;Philippa Pickford, Director of Retail at Ofgem, said:“Yorkshire Energy customers do not need to worry, as under our safety net we’ll make sure your energy supplies are secure and domestic customers’ credit balances are protected."“Ofgem will now choose a new supplier for you and whilst we are doing this our advice is to wait until we appoint a new supplier and do not switch in the meantime. You can rely on your energy supply as normal. We will update you when we have chosen a new supplier, who will then get in touch about your new tariff.”Tom Lyon, Director of Energy at Energy Helpline says:&nbsp;“While energy provider failures are rare, Ofgem’s safety net means that gas and electricity for Yorkshire Energy customers will continue as normal, and any credit balances will be protected."“If you are affected, you should wait until Ofgem has selected a new supplier to take on the customers of Yorkshire Energy. Then it’s recommended that you take a meter reading and compare energy deals - as the new tariff may not be the best value on the market."“The lowest priced fixed tariffs have started to rise in cost over the past few months, so now is a great time to lock in a cheap deal."Source: <a href="https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/publications-and-updates/ofgem-protects-customers-failed-supplier-yorkshire-energy">Ofgem</a>Need some further advice about your energy supplier that's gone bust? Check out our guides below:&nbsp;<ul><li><a href="https://www.energyhelpline.com/help/my-supplier-has-gone-bust-what-should-i-do">My supplier has gone bust, what should I do?&nbsp;</a></li><li><a href="https://www.energyhelpline.com/help/what-happens-if-your-supplier-goes-out-of-business">What happens if your supplier goes out of business?</a></li></ul>

Yorkshire Energy (Daisy Energy) has announced it is ceasing to trade, leaving Ofgem to protect its 74,000 strong customer base. As always, Ofgem will protect these customers and honour any outstanding credit balances, ensuring all customers are looked after following Yorkshire Energy's news. 

Yorkshire Energy ceases trade, Ofgem protects customers

Yorkshire Energy -also known as Daisy Energy - ceases trade with around 74,000 customers. 

<h3>Our research has revealed the newly-announced three household rule over the five festive days, plus a likely no-mixing rule over New Year, will leave the nation footing up to a £375m energy bill.</h3>The extra costs can be attributed to more households being used to celebrate Christmas, which will mean a lot more energy being consumed to power lights and cook Christmas dinners.&nbsp;However, a complete ban on mixing households over the Christmas period would have led to even higher energy bills, speculated at around £512m nationwide.While it’s still to be confirmed what level of restriction will be in place across the UK throughout the entire festive period, our research breaks down how much Brits would be spending depending on predicted restriction levels:<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>&nbsp;</td><td>No mixing allowed</td><td>2 households mixing</td><td>3 households mixing</td><td>4 households mixing</td><td>5 households mixing</td></tr><tr><td>No of UK Households</td><td>27,600,000</td><td>13,800,000</td><td>9,200,000</td><td>6,900,000</td><td>5,520,000</td></tr><tr><td>Cost of festive energy for UK (up to)</td><td>£512,150,137</td><td>£256,075,068</td><td>£170,716,712</td><td>£128,037,534</td><td>£102,430,027</td></tr><tr><td>Cost of NYE energy (2 days) based on no mixing</td><td>£204,860,055</td><td>£204,860,055</td><td>£204,860,055</td><td>£204,860,055</td><td>£204,860,055</td></tr><tr><td>TOTAL COST</td><td>£717,010,192</td><td>£460,935,123</td><td>£375,576,767</td><td>£332,897,589</td><td>£307,290,082</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>Source:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.energyhelpline.com/">energyhelpline.com</a>With the UK set to go back into a tiered system following the festive period, the UK can expect to enter 2021 with a hefty energy bill of up to £205m if all regions are asked to see in the New Year with no household mixing.Tom Lyon, Director of Energy at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.energyhelpline.com/">energyhelpline.com</a>, says: “It’s unsurprising that as many of us expect to have more limited Christmas and New Year’s celebrations than usual, our energy bills will be one of the first areas to take the financial brunt.“We can of course make changes to our plans, but given the year everyone has had, we’re sure no one wants to make further cuts to their celebrations." “That’s why it’s now more important than ever for Brits to compare energy suppliers to ensure they’re getting the best price possible. For example, those that move to a fixed rate deal could save up to a sizable £289 per year.”

The newly-announced three household rule over the five festive days will leave the nation footing up to a £171m energy bill. The extra costs can be attributed to more households being used to celebrate Christmas, which will mean a lot more energy being consumed to power lights and cook Christmas dinners. 

Costly Covid-mas: Energy bills set to cost UK £375m over Christmas and New Year 

A total ban on household mixing would have cost even more. 

<h3>Energy UK's latest switching figures reveal that 591,156 switched supplier in October this year.</h3>October's figures have brought the total amount of energy switches in 2020 up to 4,998,611, which is only 7% lower than at this point in 2019 - great progress considering the effects Covid-19 has had on the market.&nbsp;Emma Pinchbeck, Energy UK’s chief executive, said:“It’s very encouraging to see over half a million customers switching provider in October, typically the highest month of the year for switching.“As temperatures drop across the country I’d encourage more people to get in touch with their supplier or check online to see if they’re on the best tariff for them, ahead of darker, colder months when we use more energy.“I’d still urge customers to consider making their homes more energy efficient – for example by applying for the Government’s Green Homes Grants – as this is the best way to help save money on bills in the longer term and reduce household emissions to help tackle climate change.”Source: <a href="https://www.energy-uk.org.uk/media-and-campaigns/press-releases/463-2020/7696-nearly-five-million-customers-switch-so-far-in-2020.html">Energy UK</a>&nbsp;

Energy UK's latest switching figures reveal that 591,156 switched supplier in October this year. October's figures have brought the total amount of energy switches in 2020 up to 4,998,611, which is only 7% lower than at this point in 2019 - great progress considering the effects Covid-19 has had on the market. 

Almost 5 million switch so far in 2020

Exactly 4,998,611 energy customers have switched to a cheaper energy deal so far this year. 

<h3>The energy bills of the stunning properties featured in the new season of The Crown are estimated to cost up to a combined total of £2,261,196 a year!</h3><a href="https://www.energyhelpline.com/the-crown-fuels">Our analysis of the energy costs for the royals</a> shows that the buildings expected to feature prominently in season four of The Crown - including Diana’s family estate Althorp House - are estimated to cost up to a combined £2,261,196 a year in gas and electricity bills.Out of all the historic buildings to feature in the hugely popular series based on the British Royal Family, Buckingham Palace is unsurprisingly holding the number one spot, with an estimated annual energy bill of £1,078,470, making up almost half of the bills of all the properties.&nbsp;Windsor castle comes in with the second most expensive energy bills, with Althorp House sitting in third. The table below shows the largest estimated energy bills, broken down by royal property.&nbsp;<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Rank</td><td>Residence&nbsp;</td><td>Estimated annual energy cost on a Standard Variable Tariff</td></tr><tr><td>1</td><td>Buckingham Palace&nbsp;</td><td>£1,078,470</td></tr><tr><td>2</td><td>Windsor Castle&nbsp;</td><td>£630,410</td></tr><tr><td>3</td><td>Althorp House&nbsp;</td><td>£130,250</td></tr><tr><td>4</td><td>Sandringham House&nbsp;</td><td>£103,250&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>5</td><td>Balmoral Castle&nbsp;</td><td>£101,527</td></tr><tr><td>6</td><td>Anmer Hall&nbsp;</td><td>£58,573</td></tr><tr><td>7</td><td>Gatcombe Park&nbsp;</td><td>£52,716&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>8</td><td>Kensington Palace&nbsp;</td><td>£39,049</td></tr><tr><td>9</td><td>Highgrove House&nbsp;</td><td>£37,097</td></tr><tr><td>10</td><td>Clarence House&nbsp;</td><td>£29,287</td></tr><tr><td>&nbsp;</td><td>Total&nbsp;</td><td>£2,261,196</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>The Royal Household has implemented an Energy Management Strategy, thus far helping improve the energy efficiency of these buildings by 40% - achieving a 24% reduction in heating and lighting last year.&nbsp;It's not just environmental savings to be had, either, as Buckingham Palace, for instance, could save £299,487 each year by switching to the most competitive fixed rate energy deal. Across the ten properties, switching to a better deal would save an impressive £627,926 each year!Table: Largest estimated energy bills and potential energy savings, broken down by Royal property<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Property</td><td>Rooms</td><td>Estimated area (sq ft)</td><td>Annual energy cost on SVT</td><td>Potential annual saving by switching to a fixed deal</td><td>Location&nbsp;</td><td>Residents</td></tr><tr><td>Buckingham Palace</td><td>775</td><td>828,000</td><td>£1,078,470</td><td>£299,487</td><td>Westminster,London</td><td>The Queen’s working residency&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>Windsor Castle</td><td>100</td><td>484,000</td><td>£630,410</td><td>£175,062</td><td>Windsor, Berkshire</td><td>The Queen’s weekend retreat&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>Althorp House</td><td>93</td><td>100,000</td><td>£130,250</td><td>£36,170</td><td>Althorp, Northampton-shire</td><td>Princess Diana’s family estate and home from the age of 14</td></tr><tr><td>Sandringham House</td><td>Unknown&nbsp;</td><td>79,706</td><td>£103,817</td><td>£28,830</td><td>Sandringham, Norfolk</td><td>The Queen’s country home, Diana was born at neighbouring property Park House</td></tr><tr><td>Balmoral Castle</td><td>52</td><td>77,948</td><td>£101,527</td><td>£28,194</td><td>Aberdeenshire, Scotland</td><td>The Queen’s second private home</td></tr><tr><td>Anmer Hall</td><td>30</td><td>44,970</td><td>£58,573</td><td>£16,265</td><td>Anmer, Norfolk</td><td>William and Kate’s summer home</td></tr><tr><td>Gatcombe park</td><td>27</td><td>40,473</td><td>£52,716</td><td>£14,639</td><td>Avening, Gloucestershire</td><td>Princess Anne’s home</td></tr><tr><td>Kensington Palace</td><td>20</td><td>29,980</td><td>£39,049</td><td>£10,844</td><td>Kensington, London</td><td>Charles and Diana’s former home, now home to Prince William and Kate</td></tr><tr><td>Highgrove House</td><td>19</td><td>28,481</td><td>£37,097</td><td>£10,302</td><td>Tetbury, Gloucestershire</td><td>Prince William and Harry’s childhood home</td></tr><tr><td>Clarence House</td><td>15</td><td>22,485</td><td>£29,287</td><td>£8,133</td><td>Westminster,London</td><td>Formally the Queen mother’s home, Diana resided here in preparation for her marriage. Now home to Charles and Camilla</td></tr><tr><td>Total</td><td>1,131</td><td>1,736,043</td><td>£2,261,196</td><td>£627,926</td><td>-</td><td>-</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>Tom Lyon, Director of Energy here at Energy Helpline, comments: “It’s fair to say that we all love watching The Crown and getting a look inside these grand homes and, considering the size and age of these impressive buildings, it’s perhaps little wonder that their energy bills will be equally grand."“For example, some of Buckingham Palace’s radiators are over sixty years old, and the electrical cabling and heating date from the 1950s. But with measures like installing LED lighting which uses up to 86% less electricity across the estate, it’s incredible to see the environmental and cost-savings being made."“While the energy bills for these historic and large buildings will be eye-wateringly high, moving to a fixed rate deal in our own homes is one of the easiest ways to cut bills, with the average person saving a sizeable £289 per year by switching.”<figure class="image"><img src="https://ehl.imgix.net/a9ea6d248d3246988d43f52c8fc6b5ef.png"></figure>

The energy bills of the stunning properties featured in the new season of The Crown are estimated to cost up to a combined total of £2,261,196 a year! We've broken down each royal property to see exactly where the costs are coming from. 

The Crown properties rack up £2m in energy bills

We've worked out how much energy the properties that feature in The Crown use, and it's a lot.

<h3>Ofgem has issued three suppliers with final orders, meaning they are to pay £15 million in outstanding payments in order to fall in line with the Renewables Obligation scheme and the Feed-in Tariff levelisation payments.&nbsp;</h3>The three suppliers, Nabuh Energy Limited, Robin Hood Energy Limited and Symbio Energy Limited, have until 31st October the make their payments.&nbsp;All three suppliers either failed to present the required number of Renewables Obligation Certificates or did not pay into the buy-out fund by the set deadlines of 31st August and 1st September.&nbsp;The supplier who failed to pay its Feed-in Tariff levelisation payment was Robin Hood Energy.&nbsp;Four other final orders were issued earlier this month to Tonik Energy, Co-operative Energy, Flow Energy and MA Energy for similar breeches. Tonik Energy has since ceased trading, while MA Energy has paid in full, leaving Co-operative Energy and Flow Energy yet to pay, but have given Ofgem the assurances they will pay before the deadline is up.&nbsp;Ofgem is prepared to take action against any supplier who fails to meet the second deadline, which could result in licenses being revoked.&nbsp;Cathryn Scott, Ofgem’s Director of Enforcement and Emerging Issues, said: &nbsp;“The Renewables Obligation and Feed-in Tariff schemes provide vital support to renewable electricity generators and play an important role in Great Britain’s journey to a greener, fairer, energy system."“This enforcement action shows that we will take robust action if suppliers undermine such schemes by failing to meet their obligations, which could lead to them having their licence revoked.”Source: <a href="https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/publications-and-updates/ofgem-issues-three-final-orders-15-million-unpaid-renewables-obligation-and-feed-tariff-payments">Ofgem</a>

Ofgem has issued three suppliers with final orders, meaning they are to pay £15 million in outstanding payments in order to fall in line with the Renewables Obligation scheme and the Feed-in Tariff levelisation payments. 

Ofgem issues three suppliers with final orders

Unpaid Renewables Obligation and Feed-in Tariff payments lead to £15 million payments. 

<h3>6,600 of Utilita's prepayment customers were overcharged £22,700 above the prepayment price cap, along with another 33,000 who were overcharged a total of £105,000 above the price they should have paid under their tariff.&nbsp;</h3>Between May 2019 and September 2019, Utilita reported to Ofgem that it had accidentally overcharged prepayment customers. Following an Ofgem investigation, it was revealed just how many people had been overcharged by Utilita - both gas prepayment and electricity prepayment customers alike.&nbsp;Ofgem's price cap ensures suppliers cannot charge over a certain amount, ensuring fair prices for all. Ofgem meticulously monitors the level of the cap and suppliers' compliance with it.&nbsp;Utilita is to pay £500,000 in redress, along with making sure their customers are refunded in full. Under redress, Utilita will pay a £10 goodwill payment to all existing customers who were overcharged which could increase to £15 if the customer is on the Priority Services Register. Utilita will also pay £140 to 900 existing customers, who had applied for the Warm Homes Discount but were unsuccessful. The energy supplier will also pay £45,000 into Ofgem's Voluntary Redress Fund.Cathryn Scott, Director of Enforcement and Emerging Issues, said: &nbsp;“Ofgem closely monitors suppliers’ compliance with the price cap, which ensures consumers pay a fair price for their energy. This case sends a message to all suppliers that Ofgem will intervene if they charge customers above the level of the cap or above advertised tariffs. It also shows that, where appropriate, Ofgem is prepared to work with suppliers who have failed to comply with their obligations, but who have self-reported and are willing put things right quickly.”Source: <a href="https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/publications-and-updates/utilita-agrees-pay-500000-overcharging-its-customers">Ofgem</a>

6,600 of Utilita's prepayment customers were overcharged £22,700 above the prepayment price cap, along with another 33,000 who were overcharged a total of £105,000 above the price they should have paid under their tariff. 

Utilita to pay £500,000 for overcharging customers

Utilita overcharged its prepayment customer base of almost 40,000. 

<h3>September became the only month during lockdown to see a rise of smart meter installations.&nbsp;</h3>This is according to new analysis conducted by Electralink, which suggests close to 232,000 meters were installed in households across the UK, making September the first month to have more installations than the same month in 2019. September 2019 saw just 228,000 of new smart meters installed.&nbsp;Surprisingly, Electralink's analysis also recorded significantly less installs month on month since March 2020 compared to the same months in 2019.&nbsp;There have been an estimated 1,333,000 smart meter installations in the UK so far this year, with a total of 14,038,000 installed since the smart meter programme was introduced.&nbsp;Source: <a href="https://www.energylivenews.com/2020/10/20/smart-meter-installations-in-september-grew-for-first-time-since-lockdown-began/">Energy Live News</a>

September became the only month during lockdown to see a rise of smart meter installations, recording a total of 232,000. 

Smart meter installations back on the rise

September saw 232,000 smart meters installed. 

<h3>It's been announced the Energy Price Cap has been extended until the end of 2021.</h3>This announcement means around 11 million UK households on default and prepayment tariffs will be protected by price rises for at least another year.&nbsp;The Energy Price Cap only affects customers on standard variable tariffs and prepayment meter tariffs, which tend to be two of the most costly energy tariffs on the market.&nbsp;The only way to save a considerable amount of money on your annual energy bill is to <a href="https://www.energyhelpline.com/">switch to a cheaper deal</a>. In the first six months of 2020, 2.8 million electricity and 2.1 million gas customers switched their supplier*.&nbsp;But how do you know what the best deal on the market is? Use our comparison service and we'll generate a completely transparent list of all the better deals you could switch to. From here, it's up to you which one you pick and we'll do the rest.&nbsp;At the time of writing the best deal on the market that we're able to switch to is £166^ cheaper than the average standard variable tariff annual cost.&nbsp;****Figures from <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/news/11-million-households-to-make-savings-as-government-extends-cap-on-energy-bills">GOV.UK&nbsp;</a>^Worked out using Ofgems average SVT price of £1,042 and subtracting the cheapest deal we can switch customers to at the time of writing.&nbsp;

It's been announced the Energy Price Cap has been extended until the end of 2021. This announcement means around 11 million UK households on default and prepayment tariffs will be protected by price rises for at least another year. 

Energy Price Cap extended until end of 2021

Ofgem's Price Cap will continue until the end of 2021 at least. 

<h3>Ofgem has announced they will increase protection for customers struggling to pay their energy bills this winter.&nbsp;</h3>New licensing rules set to begin from 15th December will require suppliers to offer emergency credit to customers struggling to top up their prepayment meters. This action will mostly be needed for the customers who are considered vulnerable. This could be because of two reasons; they are unable to pay due to limited funds or because they cannot get to a top-up point due to mobility issues or because of self-isolation.&nbsp;In order to help reduce the number of prepayment customers who get disconnected after running out of credit, suppliers will also be expected to offer extra prepayment credit for households in vulnerable situations to provide more time while they figure out a way to pay.&nbsp;Another Ofgem licence rule will require energy suppliers to put the customers who are in debt on suitable repayment plans. A lot of suppliers in the market already have said processes in place, but Ofgem will make it mandatory for all come 15th December.&nbsp;The new licence rule will also require suppliers to continue to offer their customers the same level of support as they did through the initial stages of the Covid-19 lockdown earlier this year.Philippa Pickford, Director of Retail at Ofgem, said:“Suppliers have stepped up to the challenge of supporting their customers during the COVID-19 crisis, especially those in vulnerable situations.“Customers who are struggling to pay their bills should contact their supplier as soon as possible. The extra protections we have announced today will help ensure they get some breathing space this winter.”“Alongside our wider programme of support for vulnerable customers, Ofgem has also capped and reduced default tariffs so these customers always pay a fair price for their energy.”Source: Ofgem&nbsp;

Ofgem has confirmed plans to bolster their support for customers who are struggling to pay their energy bills this winter, and are introducing new license rules for suppliers from 15th December. 

Ofgem bolsters protection for struggling customers this winter

The new protection comes into effect from 15th December. 

<h3>Due to unplanned power outages across Britain and unusually low wind speeds, the National Grid has warned that Britain's electricity will be in short supply over the next few days.&nbsp;</h3>The National Grid Electricity System Operator (ESO) said they will make sure there is enough electricity generation during the cold weather spell to prevent a major blackout.“Unusually low wind output coinciding with a number of generator outages means the cushion of spare capacity we operate the system with has been reduced,” the ESO told its Twitter followers.A spokesperson for the National Grid said the company did not expect to issue a warning in the next 24 hours, as the electricity supply squeeze was not expected to be as tight, but the company are "monitoring how the situation develops," she said.&nbsp;In mid-September the National Grid issued an official warning to the electricity market that its backup of power reserves had fallen below 500MW, and it may need to call on more power plants to prevent a blackout. However, this warning was later withdrawn.&nbsp;The National Grid's main challenge in recent years has actually be an oversupply of energy, which can overwhelm the grid during prolonged periods of low energy demand. They also paid generators to produce less energy during the coronavirus lockdown to prevent blackouts during the first half of 2020.&nbsp;

Due to unplanned power outages across Britain and unusually low wind speeds, the National Grid has warned that Britain's electricity will be in short supply over the next few days. 

National Grid warns of short electricity supply

Over the next few days, the National Grid has said electricity could be in short supply. 

<h3>A quarter of UK billpayers have admitted to not always opening their monthly energy bill, according to our recently conducted research.&nbsp;</h3>As 138,000* bills go unopened each day, the risks of errors and direct debit rises continue to go unnoticed as consumers are paying very little attention.&nbsp;With customers not signing into online accounts, or with some being left confused by their bill’s contents, people are choosing not to regularly check their statements. This means a massive 50.4 million bills could be going unopened or unread over the course of a year.&nbsp;Below is a table revealing what is keeping people from opening their energy bills.&nbsp;<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td colspan="3">Ranking and percentage of what keeps consumers from opening their energy bills</td></tr><tr><td>=1st</td><td>I feel no need to, since I think my direct debit will always be the same</td><td>16%</td></tr><tr><td>=1st</td><td>My bills are online and I don't bother signing into my account to check</td><td>16%</td></tr><tr><td>3rd</td><td>They are too complicated and difficult to understand</td><td>10%</td></tr><tr><td>4th</td><td>I am on a prepayment meter / I pay by top up</td><td>9%</td></tr><tr><td>5th</td><td>I'm afraid of how much I may owe&nbsp;</td><td>6%</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>As you can see, the most popular reason for people not opening their direct debit is due to the belief that the direct debit will always remain the same. However, we have recently warned that due to the increased energy use due to working from home amid the pandemic, bills could rise up to an average of £94 each.&nbsp;Also, with most suppliers offering online bills instead of paper ones, consumers are choosing not to log in to check them, meaning they could be missing any vital mistakes on their bills and be costing themselves money by failing to do so.&nbsp;Following our research findings, we have renewed our recent calls on regulator Ofgem to revisit the existing rules that govern bill design – last overhauled in 2014 – to help more consumers instate better control over their energy use, especially at a time of higher energy usage during the Covid-19 pandemic.Commenting on the research, Tom Lyon, Director of Energy at Energy Helpline, said:&nbsp;“There is mass uncertainty among consumers about understanding and checking energy bills - and this is why it’s critical that customers&nbsp; can quickly and easily check their bill is correct, that it is based on accurate meter readings, and that they are on their supplier’s cheapest tariff.”“That’s why we’re calling on Ofgem to revisit the rules governing bill design, which were last overhauled six years ago as part of its Retail Market Review. We have also launched our own guides in the past few months to help consumers find the savings by looking closer at their energy bill.”“Given increasing energy use at home during the Covid-19 pandemic, it’s more important than ever that consumers feel more empowered to open and understand their bills to stay in control of their energy use and spend.”****Research conducted by us, here at Energy Helpline

Our research has unearthed a shocking statistic, that 25% of UK billpayers admit to not always opening their energy bill - that’s anywhere up to 130,000 going unopened everyday. 

Up to 138,000 energy bills unopened each day in UK

A staggering 25% of UK billpayers admit they do not always open their energy bill.

<h3>After recent news of Tonik Energy ceasing to trade, Ofgem has announced they will appoint Scottish Power to take on their whole customer base.&nbsp;</h3>Scottish Power will offer their new customers a competitive energy tariff, while all outstanding credit will be honoured and energy supplies will remain uninterrupted.&nbsp;Customers will be contacted to be told about the changes put in place, and if they are not happy, they can opt to <a href="https://www.energyhelpline.com/">switch their supplier</a>. All exit fees will be waived if anyone does decide to switch to another tariff.&nbsp;Philippa Pickford, Ofgem’s director of retail, said:“I am pleased to announce we have appointed Scottish Power for the customers of Tonik Energy. Their energy supply will continue as normal and domestic customer credit balances will be honoured."“Scottish Power will be in contact with customers over the coming days with further information. Once the transfer has been completed, customers can shop around for a better deal if they wish to.”Source: <a href="https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/publications-and-updates/tonik-energy-customers-your-questions-new-supplier-scottish-power">Ofgem</a>

After recent news of Tonik Energy ceasing to trade, Ofgem has announced they will appoint Scottish Power to take on their whole customer base. 

Scottish Power to take on Tonik Energy customers

Scottish Power will absorb all of Tonik's 130,000 customers

<h3>Around 130,000 Tonik Energy customers have been caught under Ofgem's safety net following the energy supplier ceasing trade.&nbsp;</h3>All customers will continue with energy supply and all outstanding credit balances they might have had with Tonik will be honoured.&nbsp;Ofgem now has the task of choosing a new supplier to take on all of Tonik's customers. All customers will be contacted when this decision has been made to be notified who their new supplier is.&nbsp;Ofgem strongly advise Tonik's customers to not switch until a new supplier has been appointed, and you have been contacted by them in the following weeks, in order to ensure outstanding credit balances are protected, and to take a meter reading ready for when the new supplier gets in contact to guarantee accurate initial billing.&nbsp;Philippa Pickford, Director of Retail at Ofgem, said:“Tonik Energy customers do not need to worry, as under our safety net we’ll make sure your energy supplies are secure and domestic customers’ credit balances are protected."“Ofgem will now choose a new supplier for you and whilst we are doing this our advice is to ‘sit tight’ and don’t switch. You can rely on your energy supply as normal. We will update you when we have chosen a new supplier, who will then get in touch about your new tariff.” &nbsp;Victoria Arrington, spokesperson for Energy Helpline said:&nbsp;“While supplier failures have been very low this year, this news may come as unsettling to Tonik customers. However, their energy supply will continue as normal and any credit balances will be protected through regulator Ofgem's safety net. Customers will be automatically moved to an appointed 'supplier of last resort' by Ofgem and it's important that the new tariffs offer good value for money."“We would recommend that, once customers are moved to the new supplier, they take an up-to-date meter reading and run a price comparison to see if there is a better deal elsewhere on the market. Any exit fees for moving to another provider will be waived and they could end up lower bills.""Energyhelpline.com has predicted a full-time working household will spend an extra £107 on energy this winter (October-March) due to increased working from home, so it's important that consumers are on the lowest energy tariff before the cold weather starts to bite."Source: <a href="https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/publications-and-updates/ofgem-protects-customers-failed-supplier-tonik-energy">Ofgem</a>

Around 130,000 Tonik Energy customers have been caught under Ofgem's safety net following the energy supplier ceasing trade. 

Tonik ceases trade, but Ofgem protects customers

Tonik Energy Ltd is ceasing trade as Ofgem finds new home for customers. 

<h3>Ofgem's price cap falls today, bringing the average price for a typical dual-fuel household energy bill down to £1,042 a year.&nbsp;</h3>Households on expensive standard variable tariffs could see their bills drop slightly as the price-per-unit of energy decreases with Ofgem's price cap falling.&nbsp;However, it's important to note that the overall cost of your energy bill will not drop, just the price you pay per kWh of energy - so don't expect to see drastic savings immediately, or maybe ever.&nbsp;So if you're looking to save money on your bills, it's important you don't rely on the price cap falling to do it for you. Standard variable tariffs - the type of tariff affected by the price cap falling - are already the most expensive deals out there, so don't let this price caps news fool you into remaining on one.<h3>Switch instead</h3>Switching remains the best way to ensure great savings, giving you the chance to compare the current price you pay for your energy next to cheaper, better deals.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.energyhelpline.com/">Enter your postcode</a>, followed by some details on your current supply to get started, and we'll generate a completely transparent, no-nonsense list of the best deals out there for you.&nbsp;Check out our very own guide for anything else you want to know regarding the <a href="https://www.energyhelpline.com/help/energy-price-cap-2020-what-you-need-to-know">October 2020 energy price cap</a>.

Ofgem's price cap falls today, bringing the average price for a typical dual-fuel household energy bill down to £1,042 a year. Households on expensive standard variable tariffs could see their bills drop slightly as the price-per-unit of energy decreases with Ofgem's price cap falling. 

Ofgem's price cap reduction kicks in today

The price cap falls today, but you'll save more if you switch.

<h3>From our survey, we’ve discovered just under half (45%) of homeowners from the poorest backgrounds are aware of the Green Homes Grant scheme. &nbsp;</h3>The Green Homes Grant will provide a voucher worth up to £5,000 or £10,000 (depending on socio-economic status) in order to help households become more energy efficient.&nbsp;The Government vouchers will cover two-thirds of the costs for homes undergoing energy improvements, with the homeowners themselves expected to cover the rest of the costs. &nbsp;Those on low income and certain benefits could receive the £10,000 voucher covering the entirety of the cost of the selected project. However, our survey has revealed that those who could benefit the most from the Grant are the ones least likely to know about it. &nbsp;The most well-off group of people (65%) was the most likely to know about the Green Homes Grant and the most likely to have plans to apply for the scheme. &nbsp;Our table of the awareness levels among homeowners of the Green Homes Grant, broken down socioeconomic grade:<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Social grade (using the NRS grading system)</td><td>Social grade description</td><td>% of those aware of the Green Homes Grant</td></tr><tr><td>AB</td><td>Higher managerial, administrative or professional</td><td>65%</td></tr><tr><td>AB</td><td>Intermediate managerial, administrative or professional</td><td>55%</td></tr><tr><td>C1</td><td>Supervisory or clerical, junior managerial, administrative or professional</td><td>55%</td></tr><tr><td>C2</td><td>Skilled manual worker</td><td>50%</td></tr><tr><td>DE</td><td>Semi-skilled or unskilled manual worker</td><td>50%</td></tr><tr><td>DE</td><td>Pensioners, casual workers, and other people who depend on the welfare state for their income</td><td>45%</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><h3>Need help understanding the Green Homes Grant?&nbsp;</h3>Read our guides <a href="https://www.energyhelpline.com/help/what-is-the-green-homes-grant">What is the Green Homes Grant? </a>and <a href="https://www.energyhelpline.com/help/how-to-use-the-green-homes-grant">How to use the Green Homes Grant</a> to help you better understand the Green Homes Grant as a whole, and what improvements could be made to your house.<h4>Update</h4>As of 30th September 2020, the Green Homes Grant is now taking applications for you to improve the energy efficiency of your home.&nbsp;To begin your application process, head on over to the GOV.UK website - <a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-the-green-homes-grant-scheme">apply for the Green Homes Grant scheme</a>.&nbsp;

The poorest homeowners in England and Wales are the ones least aware of the Government’s Green Homes Grant scheme, despite being able to have all energy home improvements paid for up to the sum of £10,000. 

Poorest households least aware of Green Homes Grant

Our research shows that 45% of poorer homes aren’t aware of the scheme.

<h3>Together Energy has bought Bristol Energy for £14 million, ensuring Bristol's customers and workers do not lose out.&nbsp;</h3>Together Energy will acquire the entirety of Bristol Energy's customer base, along with the Bristol Energy brand and systems.&nbsp;It was announced earlier this year by Bristol City Council (the founders of Bristol Energy in 2015) that they would be selling the company, completing the sale of the business customer base in August.&nbsp;Together Energy employ more than 90% of its staff from Scotland's most deprived areas, so guaranteeing the jobs of 110 frontline workers when the purchase of Bristol Energy was made was a big priority of theirs.&nbsp;With Together Energy already providing 100% renewable electricity to its customer base, both companies will continue to strive to deliver green energy to new customers.&nbsp;CEO of Together Energy, Paul Richards, said:&nbsp;“There are great synergies between both companies and the acquisition is a natural fit to our growth strategy. &nbsp;We are an employer with strong social ethics and in the current climate are delighted to have secured so many jobs."“We are delighted to welcome Bristol Energy’s customers into the Together family and want to assure them that nothing is changing – tariffs, terms and conditions and how you contact Bristol Energy will all remain consistent. We also recognise the value of the brand and plan to retain it.”Cllr Craig Cheney, Deputy Mayor and Bristol City Council Cabinet Member for Finance, Governance and Performance said:&nbsp;“Throughout this process it has been really important that we find a buyer who will not only offer a good deal for Bristol but also shares similar values. We are therefore delighted that Bristol Energy has been acquired by Together Energy which has proved committed to do the very best for its staff, customers and the environment.”Source: <a href="https://togetherenergy.co.uk/news/together-energy-acquires-bristol-energys-residential-customers-and-brand/">Together Energy</a>

Together Energy will acquire the entirety of Bristol Energy's customer base, along with the Bristol Energy brand and systems. 


Bristol Energy bought out by Together Energy

Together Energy acquires the customers and secures jobs. 

<h3>Daytime heating could see homeworkers’ utility bills rise up to £107* as winter approaches, our research suggests. &nbsp;</h3>With offices expected to remain predominantly closed as the colder weather draws in, those working at home could see their utility bills hike up by almost a fifth (18%) of their usual amount, warming their home when they would otherwise be vacant. &nbsp;Altogether, homeworking come the winter could see the nation’s energy bills rise up to as much as £1.9 billion between October 2020 and March 2021. &nbsp;While not everyone will be working from home five days a week, we broke down how much would be spent depending on how many days people worked from home. &nbsp;Typically, a homeworker's winter energy bill will increase on average £21 by working from home one day a week during the winter. Working from home four days a week would add £84 to a homeworker’s energy bill, three days £64, and two days £43. &nbsp;Our research follows earlier research we conducted, which unearthed the fact many were already in debt with their energy supplier following increased energy use at home since the lockdown began in March. We have predicted that consumers could already be in debt by up to £94 per household, which is a staggering £2 billion nationwide. This information comes at a time when most consumers would normally be in credit with their suppliers going into the winter. &nbsp;<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>DAYS SPENT WORKING FROM HOME</td><td>The average winter energy bill would increase by a total of</td><td>The energy cost of days spent working from home</td><td>The energy cost of the days spent working at the office/weekend days</td><td>Winter energy bill total</td><td>Cost vs the average winter dual fuel bill (based on new winter SVT price cap)</td></tr><tr><td>5 DAYS A WEEK</td><td>£107.18</td><td>£536.29</td><td>£171.64</td><td>£707.93</td><td>+17.8%</td></tr><tr><td>4 DAYS A WEEK</td><td>£85.75</td><td>£429.03</td><td>£257.46</td><td>£686.50</td><td>+14.27%</td></tr><tr><td>3 DAYS A WEEK</td><td>£64.31</td><td>£321.77</td><td>£343.29</td><td>£665.06</td><td>+10.07%</td></tr><tr><td>2 DAYS A WEEK</td><td>£42.87</td><td>£214.52</td><td>£429.11</td><td>£643.62</td><td>+7.14%</td></tr><tr><td>1 DAY A WEEK</td><td>£21.44</td><td>£107.26</td><td>£514.93</td><td>£622.19</td><td>+3.57%</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>We’re calling on energy suppliers and Ofgem to do all they can to support struggling customers. We also advise consumers to provide their supplier with an up-to-date meter reading to ensure accurate billing, while also checking they are on the cheapest tariff possible in order to help them cut back on energy costs. &nbsp;Tom Lyon, Director of Energy here at Energy Helpline, says:“With many offices expected to be partially or completely closed over autumn and winter, millions face a worrying hike in bills from working at home at the time of year when we use most energy. In addition, consumers paying by Direct Debit should normally now be in credit ahead of winter, but are finding themselves already in debt from spending more time at home since March.”“It’s vital that energy suppliers and Ofgem do all they can to support consumers who are struggling to pay spiralling energy bills. Customers who are worried should ensure they switch to the cheapest tariff and contact their supplier about ways they can help.”****Research conducted by Energy Helpline

As the winter months draw closer, it’s been predicted that energy bills for homeworkers could increase by £107 through heating their house in the daytime.

Winter energy bills could increase by £107 for homeworkers 

Staying warm indoors has its price. 

<h3>Ofgem has fined energy company SSE for failing to make inside information about the wholesale energy market known.&nbsp;</h3>Under the Regulation on Wholesale Energy Market Integrity and Transparency (REMIT), suppliers must divulge any information that is likely to affect the price of wholesale energy, and they must publish this inside information in a timely manner.&nbsp;The £2.06 million fine (the first relating to the publication of inside information) sends a very strong message to other energy companies about the importance of complying with REMIT.&nbsp;SSE failed to publish vital information about three particular energy units at Fiddler's Ferry power station, altogether having a combined generating capacity equivalent to 3% of Great Britain's peak electricity demand. Ofgem discovered that a deal between SSE and NGET (made on 22nd March 2016) reversed the likelihood that these three units would close, which was the general consensus. Without the market knowing that more generation was available than previously thought (due to the three units remaining open), is it likely some market participants ended up paying more for wholesale electricity than they should have.&nbsp;Jonathan Brearley, chief executive at Ofgem, said:&nbsp;“SSE’s failure to publish inside information in a timely and effective manner resulted in market participants trading for four working days under a false impression of supply availability in GB’s electricity market. This meant that market participants were likely to have paid higher prices than they needed to, and risked undermining confidence in the wholesale electricity market."&nbsp;&nbsp;"This fine sends a strong message to market participants that they must be familiar with, and keep to, their obligations under REMIT rules or face enforcement action by Ofgem.”Source: <a href="https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/publications-and-updates/ofgem-fines-sse-206-million-failing-publish-inside-information-about-wholesale-energy-market">Ofgem</a>&nbsp;

Ofgem has fined energy company £2.06 million SSE for failing to make inside information about the wholesale energy market known to other energy market participants.

SSE fined £2.06 million by Ofgem 

SSE failed to publish inside information about the wholesale market. 

<h3>Effortless Energy Ltd (Go Effortless Energy), a gas and electricity supplier with 2,500 domestic customers, is ceasing to trade.</h3>Under Ofgem's safety net, customers will continue to receive their energy supply as usual and outstanding credit balances will be protected.&nbsp;In the meantime, Ofgem will decide which supplier will take on all of Effortless Energy's customers. Once the decision has been made, the chosen supplier will contact all customers in the following weeks.&nbsp;Ofgem strongly advises Effortless Energy customers against switching suppliers at the moment and to take a meter reading ready for when the new supplier contacts you.&nbsp;Philippa Pickford, Director of Retail at Ofgem, said:“Effortless Energy customers do not need to worry, as under our safety net we’ll make sure your energy supplies are secure and domestic customers’ credit balances are protected."“Ofgem will now choose a new supplier for you and whilst we’re doing this our advice is to ‘sit tight’ and don’t switch. You can rely on your energy supply as normal. We will update you when we have chosen a new supplier, who will then get in touch about your new tariff.” &nbsp;UPDATE:&nbsp;Ofgem have appointed Octopus Energy to take on the customers of Effortless Energy following the news of the supplier ceasing trade.&nbsp;Octopus will offer these 2,500 domestic customers a competitive tariff, while all outstanding credit balances - money owed to both existing and former domestic customers of Effortless Energy - will also be honoured.&nbsp;Philippa Pickford, Ofgem’s director of retail, said:“I am pleased to announce we have appointed Octopus Energy for the customers of Effortless Energy. Their energy supply will continue as normal and domestic customer credit balances will be honoured."“Octopus Energy will be in contact with customers over the coming days with further information. Once the transfer has been completed, customers can shop around for a better deal if they wish to.”Source: <a href="https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/publications-and-updates/ofgem-protects-customers-failed-supplier-effortless-energy-ltd">Ofgem</a>&nbsp;

Effortless Energy Ltd (Go Effortless Energy), a gas and electricity supplier with 2,500 domestic customers, is ceasing to trade, and Ofgem will protect both their supply and outstanding credit scores. 

Ofgem to protect Effortless Energy customers

Ofgem will make sure customer energy supply is protected after news of Effortless Energy ceasing to trade.

<h3>British Gas failed to notify some 270,000 prepayment meter customers that their top-up provider had changed from Paypoint to Payzone, and has paid out £1.48 million to customers.&nbsp;</h3>As a result, some customers wasted journeys to top up their prepayment meter cards to places that no longer offered the service, while some customers dropped off supply completely, leaving some, many of whom are vulnerable, without energy.&nbsp;This occurred at the beginning of 2020, with <a href="https://www.energyhelpline.com/help/supplier-reviews/british-gas">British Gas</a> issuing these changes on 1st January, but only notifying customers in December of 2019, leaving a small amount of time for customers to adapt to the alterations in their supply. Not only did the changes include the top-up provider, but also the minimum top-up spend, which went from £1 up to £5.&nbsp;With such a small window of time between being notified and the changes taking place, customers were unable to switch suppliers before British Gas made the changes. Additionally, the notification alerting customers of these changes did not contain a telephone number and only internet links. Unfortunately, a lot of the customers on British Gas' prepayment meter tariffs do not have access to the internet and rely heavily on being able to pick up the phone to make a call.&nbsp;When Ofgem became aware of the problem they stepped in, and at which point were told by British Gas they were going to pay £1.48 million in compensation to the affected customers. British Gas also agreed to pat £250,000 into Ofgem's voluntary redress fund administered by the Energy Savings Trust, which helps support vulnerable customers.&nbsp;Philippa Pickford, Director of Retail at Ofgem said:“When such a fundamental change is being made, such as where meters can be topped up, energy suppliers need to communicate with their customers in plenty of time. British Gas should have informed all of their prepayment customers, many whom are in vulnerable situations, of the change to how to top-up their meters during the winter period."“Some customers were unaware of the change before it happened and may have struggled to contact British Gas as they opted not to open their general enquiries line on the go live date. Others were given insufficient time to make alternative arrangements if they were unhappy with the change of top-up provider."“Ofgem will continue to closely monitor the market to ensure that all customers are protected and treated fairly by their supplier.” &nbsp;Source: <a href="https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/publications-and-updates/british-gas-makes-payments-totalling-173-million-handling-changes-prepayment-meter-top-arrangements">Ofgem</a>

British Gas failed to notify some 270,000 prepayment meter customers that their top-up provider had changed from Paypoint to Payzone, and has paid out £1.48 million to customers. 

British Gas to pay out compensation to prepayment customers

Prepayment meter tariffs can be fraught with risk, and should be switched away from. 

<h3>Our recently conducted research has shown that the British public has ranked Energy bills as the most difficult to decipher among seven other utilities.</h3>Four in ten energy customers (that's some 11.1 million consumers) have admitted they don't understand their energy bill. Amidst the confusion, almost half of customers (46%) fail to check if their energy bill is accurate, and over six in ten don't check if they are on their supplier's best deal.&nbsp;In a bid to tackle country-wide bemusement, Energy Helpline is calling on Ofgem to revisit their 2014 bill design in order to help customers obtain better control over their energy spent.&nbsp;Tom Lyon, Director of Energy at Energy Helpline, says:&nbsp;“It’s clear that energy bills continue to cause much confusion for consumers. With complicated metrics and long-standing myths, it’s no wonder they are ranked the most difficult bills to understand by customers."“It’s absolutely critical that consumers are able to quickly and easily check their bill is correct, that it is based on accurate meter readings, and that they are on their supplier’s cheapest tariff."“That’s why we’re calling on Ofgem to revisit the rules governing bill design,which were last overhauled six years ago as part of its Retail Market Review.Given increasing energy use at home during the Covid-19 pandemic, it’s more important than ever that consumers can understand their bills to stay in control of their energy use and spend.”In the meantime, we've created an extremely easy-to-follow guide to help you <a href="https://www.energyhelpline.com/help/understanding-your-energy-bill">understand your energy bill</a>, along with specific guides with some of the most popular energy suppliers, including images to make things as simple as they can be. We have also produced a plethora of other guides on <a href="https://www.energyhelpline.com/help/your-meter-supply-numbers-explained">meter supply numbers</a> and tariffs, <a href="https://www.energyhelpline.com/help/fixed-and-variable-tariffs-whats-the-difference">fixed and variable tariffs</a>, as well as <a href="https://www.energyhelpline.com/help/what-are-unit-rates-and-standing-charges">unit rates and standing charges</a>.

Energy bills have been voted the most confusing type of bill, according to recent research conducted by Energy Helpline. 

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