Energy regulator warns of difficult winter as switching charges proposed

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 18 Oct, 07:31 · Archive

The energy regulator is considering introducing charges for suppliers when customers switch energy providers.

The energy regulator is considering introducing new charges for suppliers when customers switch energy providers. This risks preventing households from accessing cheaper energy deals during the coming 'difficult winter', according to the regulator.

Meanwhile, heating oil customers are facing particular hardship as prices have risen sharply. Costs have increased by up to 82% since the start of the conflict between the US and Israel and Iran, according to Energy Consumers Minister Polly Billington. Rural communities, particularly those off the mains gas grid, have been hardest hit. Nicola Sharpe from Devon said she was paying about £340 for 500 litres a year ago, but the price has now risen to just over £600 for the same amount.

The government has announced new measures aimed at regulating the heating oil market and reviewing minimum purchase amounts some customers are required to buy. Billington told the BBC the government needed to 'make sure the market is working as fairly as possible'. Some customers have held off buying fuel in hopes that prices might fall, fearing some people could go without heating.

Energy regulator warns of difficult winter as switching charges proposed — Image: BBC Business

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How it is being reported

Heating oil customers face tough winterThe government plans to regulate heating oil prices after increases.BBC Business · 18 Oct, 07:07
Energy regulator warns of 'difficult winter' as it proposes new switching charges that could ratchet up billsHouseholds risk missing out on cheaper energy deals during a 'difficult winter' as the regulator considers introducing charges for suppliers when customers switch.This is Money · 16 Oct, 10:16

In this story: Polly Billington · Nicola Sharpe · BBC · Devon · South West

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