Essex: Residents Urged To Sign Up To Energy Switch

14 January 2014, 16:12 | Updated: 14 January 2014, 16:17

People in Essex are being urged to sign up to a new initiative aimed at getting them better deals on gas and electricity.

The county council's 'Essex Energy Switch' would see residents register online and then energy companies would compete to see who can provide all of the those who've signed up the best deal. 

The idea is that the more people who register, the lower the prices will be. 

County Councillor Roger Walters, Cabinet Member for Waste and Recycling, said: "Spiralling energy bills are putting pressure on the purse strings of hardworking people across the county, but by signing up to our scheme we can help you get a better deal. 

"Too many people have to worry about whether they can afford to heat their home at this time of year, but the more people who sign up to the Essex Energy Switch, the more we can save together." 

Collective energy switching, as it is called, works by bringing together large groups of residents who want to switch providers and pay less for their energy. 

The council says it has been successful elsewhere and, based on previous schemes, residents could save up to £133 by switching providers collectively. 

You can find out more information about the scheme at www.essex.gov.uk/energyswitch.