CMA investigation must address failures of energy market

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) investigation will only be a success if it paves the way for an energy market that works for all consumers, Citizens Advice has said.

Responding to the CMA’s interim findings of its review into the energy market, the consumer champion also called on energy firms not to delay in reducing customer’s bills.

Gillian Guy, Chief Executive of Citizens Advice, said: 

“The energy market has failed the overwhelming majority of customers.

"Consumers don't trust the relationship between prices and profits. Millions are locked out of the benefits of the competition that exists.

"The CMA needs to provide a framework that gives customers confidence that they are not getting a raw deal and protects the interests of all consumers, including those who cannot or do not switch.

"The remedies recommended by the CMA are encouraging but will take some time before they are finally agreed and implemented. In the meantime, we call on energy companies – who are benefiting from massive reductions in wholesale prices – to help customers and reduce bills.”

Notes to editors

  1. The Citizens Advice service comprises a network of local Citizens Advice, all of which are independent charities, the Citizens Advice consumer service and national charity Citizens Advice. Together we help people resolve their money, legal and other problems by providing information and advice and by influencing policymakers. For more see the Citizens Advice website .

  2. The advice provided by the Citizens Advice service is free, independent, confidential, and impartial, and available to everyone regardless of race, gender, disability, sexual orientation, religion, age or nationality.

  3. To get advice online or find your local bureau in England and Wales, visit citizensadvice.org.uk

  4. You can get consumer advice from the Citizens Advice consumer service on 03454 04 05 06 or 03454 04 05 05 for Welsh language speakers.

  5. Local Citizens Advice in England and Wales advised 2.5 million clients on 6.2 million problems in 2014/15. For full service statistics see our publication  Advice trends .