Delay hits second big energy switch
DISAPPOINTED LEADER: Gary Porter.
South Holland’s second big energy switch has been hit by a delay because not enough people have registered.
The Dutch-Belgian firm handling the switchover, iChoosr, emailed the 13,000-plus people who had registered an interest before the December 18 “reverse auction” to say it has been postponed to January 29.
The email said: “We, and the energy providers we are speaking to, think the scheme should be extended for another month to ensure we get the best deal possible.
“You do not need to do anything now – except to tell your family and friends to sign up too.”
The second switch is being led by Peterborough City Council and South Holland is one of a group of councils hanging on to its coat tails.
Council leader Gary Porter, said: “I think it’s because it’s only 13,000 people taking it up and the energy companies haven’t got time to mess around in Christmas week with so few people.”
He will be reporting the delay to John Hayes, the energy minister and South Holland and the Deepings MP, to make sure offers are put on the table for customers wanting to switch.
Coun Porter says “only a few hundred” South Holland people have signed up to join the second auction and he’s disappointed so few people are taking the chance to cut their bills.
“Perhaps I have got it wrong,” he said. “Perhaps people don’t mind paying too much for their energy bills.”
Average yearly savings for 2,000-plus South Holland residents in November’s big switch were £171, according to the council.
Coun Porter, who signed up with the scheme, said he will save nearly £152 a year on his dual fuel energy bill.
Around 25,000 people signed up to the first switch, which was also backed by a group of councils.
l You can register an interest in the latest reverse auction by visiting www.sholland.gov.uk and clicking on the banner headline ‘Ready to Switch?’, collect a form from the council offices in Priory Road, Spalding, or speak to you ward councillor.
Registering is free and you make no commitment to switch until you accept an offer price.
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Saturday 25 May 2013
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