Finding the Best Gas Supplier for You
British Gas was the monopoly provider of gas supplies in the UK until 1996. When competition was introduced to the market, it was believed that prices would come down for the ordinary consumer.
ever, many people don’t switch from their current gas supplier, as they perceive switching provider will be problematic.
This is even though the fact that switching your electricity or gas supplier can lower your bills - which is particularly important during difficult economic times.
Also, it’s not hard to change your provider. Rather than tracking down all the suppliers in your area and go about contacting them to see if they can reduce your bill, 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 considerations to take into account as well as price when choosing a gas supplier.
You can look at their customer service rating - some comparison sites allow you to add reviews of suppliers you have used, so you can see how other consumers have rated each company before you move.
Another thing to consider is the different payment plans that are on offer from the suppliers. You could save money immediately by changing to an Internet plan. If you are confident you can 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 must provide these payment plans, which are designed to help people in the most vulnerable positions to pay their bills.
For sheer ease, you may select a fixed plan. This means the price of each unit of energy is fixed for a certain length of time. Alternatively, a capped plan means that the price of each unit won’t rise during a set length of time. However, if gas prices fall during that time your energy bills could come down.
Suppliers also provide their own standard pricing plans. Your choice of supplier will unavoidably be influenced by the plans that are available - and the one that suits you best.
That is why price comparison sites will always ask you about your current payment structure and the one you would prefer. You will be able to compare the different tariffs quickly and easily to see which will save you the most. You can make great savings by changing your gas supplier.
