Energy saving power in your hands

The county may have avoided the worst of the cold this winter so far, but the chances are residents still want to spend less on energy bills.

Buckinghamshire County Council is again providing the opportunity to save an average of almost £300 a year, by signing up for the latest collective switching auctions.

The schemebrings consumers together to negotiate a better deal with gas and electricity suppliers via an auction where energy companies offer competitive prices.

The supplier with the cheapest tariffs gets to offer registrants a new contract.Residents can compare thesupplier’s bid with their current supplier, see how much they’ll save, and decide whether to switch.

The County Council has been working with iChoosr, the Government’s approved organisation, to offer the opportunity for people to join the next auction on Tuesday February 2.

In a Collective Switching surveyof last year’s registrations, 143 Buckinghamshire registrants each saved an average of £295.15, compared to a national average of £230.

Warren Whyte, Cabinet Member for Planning and Environment, said:’This is a great “no strings attached” opportunity for our residents to be part of a simplified switching process combined with a very competitive deal. We want as many people as possible to register because the more people who sign up, the better the savings could be.’

Registration closes on Monday 1 February, andresidents can register online at www.buckscc.gov.uk/switchedon or call 01296 395000.