Who regulates the suppliers?

The Office of Gas and Electricity Markets - Ofgem - is the independent regulator of the two energy markets.

New suppliers need to be authorised by Ofgem before they can supply you with gas and/or electricity. Ofgem will ensure that suppliers are able to supply sufficient energy to meet the demands of their customers.

What is energywatch?

Energywatch acts as the consumer advocate in domestic energy matters. The organisation has taken over responsibility from Ofgem for providing bi-monthly factsheets providing tariff data and bill analyses for all licensed gas and electricity suppliers. For more information visit energywatch’s website at www.energywatch.org.uk.

What is the Gas Consumers Council?

It is a statutory body representing the interests of Gas Consumers in the UK. They offer free help and advice. They can be contacted on 020 7931 0977, or by post at Gas Consumers Council, Abford House, 15 Wilton Road, London, SW1V 1LT.

What are the Electricity Consumers' Committees?

They are groups representing the interests of electricity consumers in their local areas by providing help and advice to anyone who has a problem with their electricity company. In total there are 14 Committees spread across England, Scotland and Wales. Each has between 10 and 20 volunteer local members and a chairman.