Uswitch comments on the Government’s Energy White Paper

Richard Neudegg, Head of Regulation at Uswitch, comments on the Energy White Paper announced today by the Government:

“The Government has a huge and important job on its hands to move our energy system away from fossil fuels and today’s plans are another step towards that. There will be a lot of detail to work through.

“Keeping bills affordable, especially for the vulnerable, will be crucial if the plans set out are to be truly sustainable. 

“The Government is right that those of us who switch are the ones who get the better deals, so looking at ways to get more consumers to move tariffs is welcome. However, consumer choice and empowerment remain key to ensure that providers are still motivated to compete on price, provide good service and continue to innovate to meet the needs of smarter greener homes.

“Trialling and testing different approaches is sensible, as there is a long history of well-intended rule changes that have not worked in practice. It’s no good forcing everyone to switch tariffs if suppliers just whip away the better deals at the same time. 

“We’re pleased the Government has also decided to review the Warm Homes Discount as there are significant holes in the current scheme. It’s important that this review will be wide-ranging enough to make the scheme fit for purpose for those that need it most.”