12 January 2011

Compare Energy Suppliers as E.ON Rates Rise

Find out how to reduce your gas and electricity bills by comparing the market.

E.ON has announced it will be putting its prices up for gas and electricity from 4th February, affecting around 4.3 million customers.

****Their gas rate will rise by three percent or £19, while electricity will rise by nine percent, or £42, hitting standard tariffs and adding on average £62 to the average annual bill – from £1,187 to £1,249.

As the fifth major supplier to announce a price hike this winter, this is the last, as ScottishPower's increase took effect on 25th November, SSE's on the 1st December followed by British Gas on the 10th December, and npower's on 4th January.

EDF Energy in contrast has announced a price freeze on standard tariffs until March this year.

"The fact that these rises aren't unexpected won't make it any easier for cash-strapped consumers to afford their higher bills,”commented Richard Hall, Consumer Focus' energy expert.

"It is essential that confidence in energy prices is improved. Ofgem's review of the market needs to meet these high expectations.”

Compare Electricity and Gas Suppliers Online

If you are eager to reduce your energy bills there are a number of ways you can either cut down your usage, or reduce the rate you are currently paying.

Now is a good time to compare the market as all the major energy suppliers have announced their price changes, so you can compare your consumption against each provider's specific rates and deals.

Monitor your energy consumption and look to see if there are times when the heating is on, or the hot water is on when no one is using it.

There are discounts to be had such as applying for a new deal online and having your bills sent to you via email as opposed to through the post.

Also, switch to paying your bill by monthly direct debit as this way you will not have any outstanding bills which could gain interest if you forget to pay them.

Compare Energy Providers with MoneyMaxim