Big Energy Saving Week puts tariffs to the test

Big Energy Saving Week starts this coming Monday (22 January) – and as ever, it’ll be offering plenty of advice and information that could save householders hundreds of pounds.

The big theme of the week is switching energy supplier. Along with our partners Citizens Advice and the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS), we’ll be sharing some eye-opening new stats from our brand new survey that might just push you to taking action – if, indeed, you haven’t already.

Understanding what makes a ‘good deal’

Here’s some numbers for starters: a third of the people polled (33%) said they don’t know enough about their energy usage to have a benchmark on what is a good deal. Yet figures from Ofgem show that you can save up to £300 a year by switching from a Standard Variable Tariff (SVT).

Staying put hits most vulnerable hardest

Reducing bills is a serious social issue, as Citizens Advice Chief Executive Gillian Guy stresses. She said: “Checking your energy tariff and switching to a cheaper deal is one of the quickest and easiest ways to cut your bills.

“We know people who stay with the same energy supplier often pay hundreds of pounds more a year for the same gas and electricity. It is too often the most vulnerable and those with the lowest incomes who pay the highest prices for their energy.”

Taking the money-saving message far and wide

From Cornwall to Cardiff, Hull to the Highlands, there are Big Energy Saving Week events taking place all across the UK. Citizens Advice will be there to guide visitors through the switching process, and provide further advice on how to cut those bills.

It certainly promises to be a busy week. Energy Saving Trust Chief Executive Philip Sellwood commented:

“Big Energy Saving Week will help people bust the myths that might hold them back from switching, as well as sharing the simple tips and advice people can make to reduce their energy costs every day.

“Lack of awareness is the major barrier to people putting extra money in their own pocket, so these free events are a quick and easy way to learn more about your bills and how to cut them down to size.”

Those looking to see how much they could save by getting out of an energy tariff rut can take a look at Citizens Advice’s online price comparison tool.

Big Energy Saving Week runs from 22 to 28 January.