§ Mr. ClaphamTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if electricity and gas customers have accurate information on which to make decisions which allow them to benefit from competition in the market. [153455]
§ Mr. HainAccurate information on the competitive domestic energy market is widely available. The Office of Gas and Electricity Markets (Ofgem) publishes fact-sheets on gas, electricity and dual-fuel prices, which consumers can obtain from a freephone number—0800 88 77 77. Ofgem also produces more detailed price information and information on customer complaints, which is available from its website.
541WIn January, Ofgem introduced website links to internet price comparison companies, which enable consumers more easily to decide which supplier is offering the tariff best suited to their needs. Ofgem has a voluntary code that includes stipulations on accuracy of data and independence to which companies must sign up before being linked to its website. Two companies, which customers can also contact by telephone, have so far met these criteria.
Energywatch, the Gas and Electricity Consumer Council, is developing a matrix of information on suppliers' standards of service, which will complement the price information. It will also raise awareness of customers' options and rights in the competitive market as part of its programme of fostering confident, assertive consumers.
Consumers without internet access are able to access websites via libraries and advice centres.