Gas bill reductions not enough for consumers

Citizens Advice has said that the reduction in gas bills announced by Scottish Power has fallen short for consumers, just as E.On and British Gas’s reductions did. Scottish Power announced a 4.8 per cent cut to its gas prices today.

Gillian Guy, chief executive of Citizens Advice, said:

“All energy firms have a duty to pass on savings to their customers. Just as with British Gas and E.On, Scottish Power’s gas bill reduction has fallen short for consumers after rocketing prices. Energy companies must look to pass on wholesale costs by cutting electricity bills, not just gas.

“Energy bills are up a third since 2010 yet figures show wholesale costs at a four-year low. People are falling into arrears with rent and council tax debts as they struggle to make ends meet.  

“Consumers should call up their supplier to ensure they are on the cheapest tariffs instead of accepting these modest reductions. Customers on energy prepayment meters can pay a yearly average of £80 or more for a second-class service. Citizens Advice wants to see energy suppliers reduce prices for all customers, not just those able to switch to get the best deals.”

Notes to editors:

  1. The Citizens Advice service comprises a network of local bureaux, 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 find your local bureau in England and Wales, visit citizensadvice.org.uk . You can also get advice online at adviceguide.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. Citizens Advice Bureaux in England and Wales advised 2.3 million clients on 5.4 million problems from October 2013 to September 2014. For full 2013/2014  service statistics see our quarterly publication Advice trends

  6. Citizens Advice service staff are supported by more than 21,000 trained volunteers, working at over 3,000 service outlets across England and Wales.