Households warned over energy companies turning away new customers

HOUSEHOLDS have been warned over energy companies turning away new customers looking to switch suppliers.

British Gas, Ovo Energy, E.on, Scottish Power and EDF have been telling customers they should stick with their supplier while the energy crisis continues.

But according to Ofgem, suppliers are obliged to accept new customers, The Guardian

Rules have even been rolled out to make this easier earlier this year.

While many suppliers were offering cheap fixed deals before the crisis, there aren’t any left now costs have spiralled – so it’s unlikely you’ll be switching because of this reason.

But many customers may choose to switch for other reasons, for example, due to poor customer service.

Data from Citizens Advice shows customer service has dived during the crisis, with suppliers leaving customers waiting on phones and failing to tackle issues in good time.

But energy giants are not currently providing online quotes and claimed that customers were better off remaining with their supplier.

According to The Guardian, British Gas said it is not accepting new customers as Ofgem has advised against switching while prices go up and down.

While EDF and Scottish Power told The Guardian it would accept new customers on a standard variable tariff over the phone.

EDF advises customers to use its helpline, and Scottish Power is referring people back to its website.

E.on told The Guardian: “With energy prices at a record high, it is recommended that customers stay with their existing supplier.

“However, customers can sign up to receive an alert as soon as we are in a position to offer competitive fixed-price tariffs for new customers, or can call us to discuss their tariff.”

Independent consumer champion Martyn James said: “Just because there aren’t any switching deals doesn’t mean people won’t want to switch.”

The Sun contacted British Gas, EDF, Ovo Energy and Scottish Power for comment.

How to complain about your energy supplier

If you think you haven’t been getting a good service from your energy supplier you might want to complain.

The first thing to do is reach out to your supplier.

Energy suppliers and network operators must have a complaints process that is clearly set out to customers.

This process has to be adequately resourced and must be fit for purpose.

You should explain the problem and what you want them to do. 

Send your complaint by email, letter or telephone and always make sure you keep records of contact you have with the company.

 has  you can use. They can also help with a complaint.

And online tools and apps like  can also help you track and manage a complaint.

You can complain to the  if eight weeks have passed and you still aren’t happy with the company’s response. 

You can access an  or call 0330 440 1624.