What about electricity prices? Asks Which?

04 February 2010

As British Gas announces that it is cutting its gas prices by seven per cent, Which? chief executive, Peter Vicary-Smith, says:

“This will be welcome news for those customers who will benefit from the cut but will leave many asking why British Gas isn’t also reducing its electricity rates.

“Gas is a major source of electricity generation* so surely a fall in the wholesale price of gas should also mean a reduction in electricity costs? This highlights the need for more transparency between wholesale and retail prices.

“This is also an ideal time to check that you’re getting the best deal for your energy. You could save money by switching or by taking a few simple steps, like paying by direct debit or on a monthly basis, or moving to an online account.”

Notes to Editor

*Electricity supplied by fuel type, 1990 10 2008 chart- Gas 46%, Coal 31%, Nuclear 13%, Hydro and other fuels- 4%, Imports 3%, Wind 2%, Oil 1%, pages 42, UK Energy in Brief 2009, DECC.

Which? Switch is the only not-for-profit, Consumer Direct-approved energy switching site, ensuring pricing, systems and procedures have been thoroughly checked and validated by another independent organisation. Customers can go to www.which.co.uk/switch.