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People need to ensure they are getting the best energy deal and should be entitled to all the help they can get to achieve this, one group has said.
Bacs Payment Schemes revealed that there are now almost 100 different tariffs to choose from, making many people confused as to what is the best option for them.
"Our latest research shows that nearly four out of five UK households now pay combined gas and electricity bills by direct debit but this still leaves approximately five million households that are still not enjoying these benefits," commented Graham Callaghan, Bacs Energy Sector Manager.
He added that many direct debit deals offer people reductions on their energy bills, which some people may not be aware of.
Many of the country's energy suppliers charged their customers more than independent traders throughout the boiler scrappage scheme, it has been claimed.
A freedom of information request submitted by the Guardian revealed that in some regions, energy companies charged customers 60% more to have a new boiler installed than other suppliers.
On average, however, costs were around a third higher, the data showed.
Peter Thom, Strategy Group Chairman for the Energy Efficiency Partnership for Homes, told the paper that big suppliers have tools at their disposal that will encourage customers to use them.
"They're renowned for toploading prices and then offering a discount. They've got the marketing clout and they can get the headlines," he explained.
The boiler scrappage scheme offered people up to £400 off the cost of a new boiler if their existing model was particularly energy inefficient.
Cash was issued in the form of vouchers, which needed to be redeemed within five weeks of receiving them.
A number of groups have welcomed proposed changes to the notice period energy customers receive before the cost of their gas and electricity increases.
Energy Secretary Chris Huhne made the announcement yesterday (September 21st), much to the delight of many consumer organisations.
Consumer Focus said there was simply "no justification" for the price rises people are likely to face this winter, especially when they are not made aware of them until after payments have been requested.
Similar sentiments were echoed by uSwitch.com, which emphasised that any move to improve transparency is welcome.
"The current arrangement, which gives energy companies 65 days to notify their customers of increases, allows no time for customers to compare energy prices and keep their costs down," said Director of Consumer Policy Ann Robinson.
She advised customers to ensure they are aware of their energy usage and to adapt their household budgets to the price changes.
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