Labour campaign for energy switch

Members of Newbury’s Labour Party asked Sunday shoppers in Northbrook Street to sign a petition for West Berkshire Council to organise a collective switching scheme, which could save residents between £60 and £200 a year.
The scheme uses the potential combined purchasing power of anyone who registers to try and attract energy companies to hold a ‘reverse auction’. Companies bid with their lowest tariffs with the hope of securing new customers. Residents who signed up are then informed on how much money they could potentially save by switching - although there is no obligation to switch.
Other schemes have been run by councils across the country, including neighbouring Hampshire where the average saving was around £90.
Speaking in Northbrook Street on Sunday party’s campaign manager Kate Butler said: “I think people are really struggling. The cost of living has gone up and there have been cuts to services and people’s wages have stagnated while in the south east energy prices have risen by around nine per cent. If we can make a change locally and get the council to arrange this switch then it will make a huge difference. We’re calling on the council to organise an auction as soon as possible before the weather turns colder.“
A spokesman for West Berkshire Council, Keith Ulyatt, said: “We recognise the potential benefits of a collective energy switching scheme for residents and are already in discussion with Local Authority Energy/Sustainability Officers and Councillors from the six Berkshire council’s regarding the possibility of a Berkshire wide scheme.
“A meeting is due to take place in the New Year. Such a scheme would involve a contractual relationship with an external organisation so would take some time to ensure that the right scheme and provider is appointed in order to deliver the best benefits for our residents.”
The launch of the petition follows a switch in direction from energy companies, who this week announced price freezes following a new package of Government measures.
SSE confirmed on Monday that it would be passing on any savings to its customers along with plans to lower prices by the end of the financial year - representing a four per cent saving - £50 for a dual duel customer.
Meanwhile, British Gas owner Centrica said it would cut bills by £53 while Npower plans a conditional freeze until 2015.
Search for Newbury Labours petition online at www.change.org