Select Your Gas Supplier
British Gas was the monopoly provider of gas supplies in the UK until 1996. When competition was brought into the market, it was thought that prices would come down for the ordinary consumer.
ever, many people don’t change from their current gas supplier, as they perceive switching provider will be problematic.
This is despite the fact that switching your electricity or gas supplier can lower your bills – which is particularly important during a recession.
Also, it’s not hard to change your provider. You don’t have to track down all the suppliers in your area and go about contacting them to see if they can reduce your bill, you can visit a price comparison site.
You may even be able to switch gas supplier with a few clicks of the mouse. Of course, there are other conditions to consider in addition to price when choosing a gas supplier.
You can check out their reputation for customer service – some comparison sites allow you to add reviews of suppliers, so you can see how other people have rated each company before you move.
Another thing to consider is the distinct payment plans that are on offer from the suppliers. You may be able to save money immediately by changing to an Internet plan. If you are happy to manage your account and receive all your bills online, this could lower administration fees.
If you are on a low income, you may qualify for a social payment plan. Energy companies must provide these payment plans, which are designed to help people in the most difficult positions to pay their bills.
For sheer ease, you may want a fixed plan. This means the price of each unit of energy is fixed for a certain length of time. Alternatively, choosing a capped plan means that the price of each unit won’t go up over a set period of time. However, if gas prices fall during that period your energy bills could come down.
Different suppliers will also provide their own standard pricing plans. Your choice of supplier will unavoidably be determined by the plans that are available – and the one that suits you best.
That is why price comparison sites will always ask you about your current payment plan and the one you would prefer. You can compare the different plans quickly and easily to see which can save you the most. You can make great savings by switching your gas supplier.
