Cheapest energy prices through online plans but only 5% are on them

Ofgem figures show that only 5% of households are on the cheapest energy prices offered through the energy suppliers best online deals.

According to uSwitch.com, some 12.5 million households are on energy suppliers standard tariffs and not on the cheapest online energy plans.

As a result consumers could be paying nearly £350 more a year than they need to for their energy – equivalent to 25% of the average annual household energy bill.

Some 40% of households have never switched energy supplier and are still on energy suppliers standard plans and paying much more than they need to.

Energy expert at uSwitch, Will Marples, said ‘Consumers can help themselves by following three simple steps: move to duel fuel, pay by direct debit and sign up to an online.’

He added ‘Don’t be put off by the fact thay it is called an online plan – with some suppliers only requiring you to register online, this is a small obstacle that is very easy to overcome after which you can run your account as usual.’

The energy companies do not automatically give households their best rates.

Energy supply is competitive and often there are good new deals available.

It can therefore pay to be proactive and seek out the best price energy plans on offer.

Using an energy comparison and switching service like that offered by uSwitch.com, you can compare prices on gas and electricity (and other products and services such as water and heating cover) and easily find the best deal to suit your needs.