British Gas was the monopoly provider of gas supplies in the UK until 1996. When competition was brought into the market, it was believed that prices would come down for the ordinary consumer.
ever, many people are likely to stick with their current gas supplier, as they perceive switching provider will prove a hassle.
This is even though the fact that switching your electricity or gas supplier can save you money – which is particularly important during a recession.
Also, it’s not difficult to change your provider. Rather than tracking down all the suppliers in your area and go about contacting them to see if they can lower your costs, you can visit a price comparison site.
You could even be able to switch gas supplier with a few clicks of the mouse. Of course, there are other circumstances to take into account in addition to price when choosing a gas supplier.
You can look at their reputation for customer service – some comparison sites allow you to add reviews of suppliers, so you can see how other users have rated each company before you move.
Another thing to consider is the various payment plans that are on offer from the suppliers. You may be able to save money straight away 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 have to provide these payment plans, which are designed to help people in the most difficult positions to pay their bills.
For sheer simplicity, you may select a fixed plan. This means the cost of each unit of energy is fixed for a certain period of time. Alternatively, choosing a capped plan means that the price of each unit won’t rise for a set period of time. However, if gas prices come down your energy bills could come down.
Different suppliers also provide their own standard pricing plans. Your choice of supplier will of course 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 for 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 cost cutting by switching your gas supplier.