Energy

Energy Secretary Claire Coutinho has responded to calls from MoneySavingExpert.com (MSE) founder Martin Lewis to address high standing charges, fix broken smart meters and tackle the lack of competition in energy switching.

The Energy Price Cap, which dictates the rates most people pay for energy, is now predicted to fall by less than expected over the next year, according to the latest data from analysts Cornwall Insight. It means you'd pay on average 15% less than the current Price Cap over the next year – but you could save more than this by fixing now. We take you through your options.

Energy Secretary Claire Coutinho has confirmed the Government will look for solutions to help people being chased for debts owed to defunct energy firms, who currently have no viable way to escalate complaints. It follows a letter sent by MoneySavingExpert.com (MSE) founder Martin Lewis calling for urgent action on the issue. 

Unbelievably, a debt collection firm has been sending emails that appear to be signed by the late pop star Michael Jackson asking for repayments owed to energy firms that have gone bust. In some cases, people don't owe the debt, in others they do – unfortunately it's not always 'black and white'.

British Gas is extending its offer of half-price electricity on Sundays for some smart meter customers until April 2024. It's part of the energy firm's 'PeakSave' scheme and is a no-brainer for those who can get it. But you should still keep an eye out for cheaper fixed deals, as they could save you more in the long-term.

Octopus Energy has bought Shell Energy UK in a move which will see Shell's gas and electricity customers moved to Octopus. If you're with Shell, your account, including payment details, will be transferred automatically in the coming weeks and months – just look out for a welcome email from Octopus. Until then, there are no changes and you should keep paying your bills as normal.

E.on Next has opened its 'Pledge' variable tariff to new, as well as existing, direct debit customers. It promises a 3% discount (about £50 a year on typical use) on the Price Cap for a year. We've full info below. 

If you're a Shell Energy (or Octopus) customer on a standard variable tariff (SVT), you could make £50 with an easy trick shared by MoneySavingExpert.com founder Martin Lewis on the latest episode of ITV's The Martin Lewis Money Show Live.

In a major survey of 3,000 people, MoneySavingExpert.com today reveals which firms paid customers the most to cut their energy use during peak times last winter, and how people did it. Crucially, despite most saying they earned less than £20 in total for their efforts – only 21% earned more than £20 with top payer Octopus – the majority WOULD sign up again. 

If you're an E.on Next customer, look out for a message from the firm offering you up to 50% off your bills this winter. The supplier has launched a new support scheme for some of its existing customers on low incomes or with medical needs.