Ofgem points ‘five-days’ recommendation that might imply vitality invoice financial savings
The energy regulator is urging millions of households to check their gas and electricity tariffs
Ofgem is urging millions of energy bill‑payers to check their gas and electricity tariffs(Image: Westend61 via Getty Images)
Energy regulator Ofgem has delivered a Valentine’s Day message to financially stretched British households: “Don’t stay trapped in a relationship that costs you more than it should.” Ofgem is encouraging millions of energy bill-payers to examine their gas and electricity tariffs, explore their alternatives and, if they’re being overcharged, move to a more affordable provider.
Countless homes remain stuck on standard variable tariffs that can leave them hundreds of pounds worse off. Ofgem’s guidance is straightforward: “Take action now. Switching energy supplier can take as little as five working days, and you can even ask for the switch to happen on a future date if it suits you better. If your supplier fails to complete the switch in that five‐day window, they now have to pay you £30 in compensation. “.
The procedure is simple – you select a fresh supplier and tariff via an accredited comparison website, supply a few particulars from your existing energy bill, and the new firm manages everything else. Your energy supply won’t be disrupted and there’s a 14-day cooling-off period should you have second thoughts.
Despite this, research from YouGov reveals 83% of Brits haven’t switched supplier in the past year, frequently because they believe it’s overly complicated. However, with millions potentially paying hundreds of pounds extra annually, experts suggest that comparing providers could genuinely make a significant impact.
Platforms like Nous eliminate the inconvenience of changing suppliers. Their artificial intelligence technology searches the market for the most affordable tariffs, transfers you seamlessly, and continuously tracks prices to ensure you never slip back onto an expensive deal.
Top tips for switching energy supplier
- Check your current deal – know how much you’re paying and your tariff type.
- Use accredited comparison sites – they list tariffs clearly and in price order.
- Look at fixed deals – they can offer certainty and savings over variable tariffs.
- Set a future switch date – avoid overlapping bills or inconvenient timing.
- Keep an eye on your bills – make sure the switch has gone through and you’re on the correct tariff.
- Consider automated tools – services like Nous can handle everything and alert you to better deals.
Ofgem also provides guidance on prepayment meters, moving home, dealing with debt, and compensation if things go wrong – all aimed at helping consumers take control of energy costs.
The regulator encourages anyone paying for household energy to take a few minutes to check their tariff and see if they could save hundreds of pounds annually. Guidance on switching is available here.
