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Renfrewshire Community Plan 2008 - 2017 Electricity and gas supplier advice
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You may be considering switching your energy supplier. But before you do, you should consider the following information.
On 1 October 2008 the former watchdog, Energywatch, became part of a new organisation called Consumer Focus, which also incorporated another former watchdog - Postwatch.
Consumer Focus can offer advice on the following:
- Different energy tariffs
- The latest gas and electricity prices
- How to switch supplier and get the best energy deal
- Where to go if you have a complaint about your energy supplier
- If you are having trouble paying your energy bills
- Any free services or benefits you could be entitled to
Remember, If you have signed a new contract in your home, or via the internet/telephone, you should have seven days in which to change your mind and cancel the contract.
Particular attention should be given to dual-fuel offers (are they really cheaper?), double charging (possible in the transition process) and forged contracts (no knowledge/consent), sometimes called 'slamming'.
How to record a complaint against a trader
Complaints should initially be made to the energy supplier, seeking advice from Consumer Focus and Ofgem. If they cannot resolve your complaint you should contact the Energy Ombudsman.
If you require to speak with an adviser for consumer advice, or to make a complaint about a trader:
- contact our partners, Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06.
- If Consumer Direct advice does not resolve your complaint, they will refer it on to us for further investigation. Please note that, depending on the circumstances, it may take up to 10 working days before we can contact you.
- For further consumer advice please visit the Directgov website.
Alternatively, you can complete the following form and submit direct to Trading Standards:
Consumer Complaint Reporting Form (PDF - 604kb)
Contact us
- email: ts.es@renfrewshire.gov.uk
- call in or write to us at:
- Renfrewshire Council
Environmental Services
Trading Standards
Renfrewshire House
Cotton Street
Paisley
PA1 1BR
