ACS

ACS has responded to the details of the Energy Bill, announced in yesterday’s Queens Speech. The Bill seeks to help vulnerable households with their energy bills. It also proposes to give the energy regulator Ofgem more powers, so that they can to ensure fair practice in the energy market and can intervene effectively to protect domestic consumers.

However, the Bill has come under criticism from ACS Chief Executive James Lowman, who believes that the Bill does not go far enough to protect local shop owners from the “bullying tactics” employed by energy companies.

ACS Chief Executive James Lowman said: “The Energy Bill is an important first step in creating an energy ombudsman with genuine influence. It is vital for the fairness of the market that Ofgem are given sufficient powers to tackle energy companies when required. However, there is still a long way to go.

“Research that we carried out over this summer has shown that 1 in 4 retailers have been given an unfair energy contract proposal. Ofgem may be receiving more powers to protect consumers but for small businesses this is not cause for celebration. Vulnerable retailers will still be defenceless in the face of the bullying tactics employed by energy companies and the roll over contracts which lead to grossly unfair tariffs. This needs to stop.”

If you are a local shop owner and have had trouble with your energy company, please get in contact with ACS on 01252 515001, or email chris.noice@acs.org.uk