The retail industry has expressed concern over the exclusion of non-domestic customers from the impending deal on energy tariffs.

As part of the deal announced by the deputy Prime Minister earlier this month, energy companies are required to write to customers annually to inform them of the best tariff available and how to get it. However business customers will not be afforded the same service.

Association of Convenience Stores chief executive James Lowman was disappointed that businesses were excluded from the deal.
“This announcement is the latest example of double standards from energy companies,” he said. “Business customers already have to deal with excessive back-billing periods and rollover contracts, and they will now be excluded from knowing about the best tariffs on an annual basis.”

He urged action to better protect non-domestic customers. “Government must take action to stop energy companies getting away with the bare minimum when it comes to their business customers,” added Lowman. “While measures set to be introduced as a result of Ofgem’s Retail Market Review consultation are welcome, there is still a long way to go to establish a level playing field between domestic and small business customers.”

Readers of Convenience Store concerned about their energy bills can avail of our energy account switching partnership with Utilities Direct. Log on to www.conveniencestore.co.uk for more information.