Easy-to-read energy statements 'too confusing'
3rd August 2010
New annual energy statements designed to make it easier for customers to find the best deal on their gas and electricity are too confusing, a campaign group has said.
Industry regulator Ofgem ordered all energy companies in the UK to provide their customers with the statements detailing how much energy they use, how much it costs and how to find cheap gas and electricity elsewhere as part of efforts to make the often complicated energy industry easier for customers to navigate.
However, campaign group Consumer Focus said in some cases the statements have been dressed up like regular bills, confusing customers and failing to help them make better choices about their current gas or electricity plan.
Scottish and Southern Energy and nPower topped the list of worst offenders, with the campaign group branding both of their efforts as "poor".
Meanwhile, British Gas was praised for the clear, customer-friendly language of its statements.
Ofgem said some energy companies were following guidelines to the letter, rather than entering into the true spirit of the statements.
The Energy Retail Association, which represents suppliers, said the statements are "a work in progress".
Copyright © Press Association 2010
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