The UK’s most highly rated price comparison and switching service for energy users has urged consumers in search of the best deals to seek out smaller independent suppliers.
Julian Morgan, managing director of the service ranked number one on consumer feedback site Trustpilot, said more independent suppliers were entering the energy market than ever and challenging the monopoly of the Big Six.
“The clear message for consumers is that there are highly competitive alternatives to the major players now and it makes sound financial sense to take a look at what the independents are offering,” Mr Morgan said.
“Consumers have made it clear that they have lost faith in the Big Six after years of high prices and lack of competition in the market. I am pleased to report that that situation has started to change.
“The suppliers on our panel now include more small and independent suppliers than ever before, and they’re offering highly competitive deals in a bid to take on the Big Six.
“We’re advising both domestic and non-domestic energy consumers to use a reputable and independent price comparison service like the Energy Advice Line to seek out the smaller players to see what they have to offer.
“These consumers could well save money and bag a better level of customer service if they do.”
Extra Energy, a highly competitive new entrant to the UK energy market, launched two new tariffs costing less than £940 in a bid to take the top spot for the cheapest dual-fuel energy tariff of 2014.
In November it was reported that more than 36% of all consumers who switched energy supplier had switched to Extra Energy to take advantage of the big savings being offered to homes and businesses.
The company claims that by running “a highly efficient and lean operation” that does not advertise it is able to pass on big savings to consumers.
Mr Morgan the business model adopted by Extra Energy and other new entrants to the UK energy market was proving very popular with business and domestic energy consumers.
“High prices, poor service and tarnished reputations of the big energy suppliers are prompting more and more consumers to consider their options,” Mr Morgan said.
“Lots of consumers are now switching to small, independent suppliers that might not be household names but are offering competitive deals and the prospect of better customer service.
“Smaller companies are often more nimble and customer-focused because they have to be competitive to get ahead. This is winning over customers who have lost faith in the Big Six.”
The Energy Advice Line is one of the UK's leading price comparison and switching services for business and domestic energy customers. It is also an advocate for energy market reform and has campaigned for a better deal for energy users, including calling for a ban on cold calling and changes to regulations to make it easier for all consumers to switch suppliers.
The service is completely independent and free. Consumers can quickly and simply search the market for the best available energy deals from an extensive panel of small and large energy suppliers. The service also offers a free advice line for business energy customers.
For further information visit www.energyadviceline.org.uk