Energy Secretary Greg Clark slams Big Six energy companies for treating Brits ‘unfairly’ as firms make SEVEN times more than they claim
Secretary Greg Clark claims they appear to be 'milking customers' who stay loyal to offer cut price deals to those who ‘switch’ on the web.
FURIOUS ENERGY Secretary Greg Clark told Big Six energy chiefs it was time to deliver for hard-up Brits after being blanked over fat-cat profits.
The Tory big hitter demanded suppliers draw up an action plan to “change their behaviour” in showdown talks triggered by the Sun’s revelations that firms are making up to SEVEN TIMES more than they claim.
Lobby group Energy UK disputed the accusation at a summit with the Energy Secretary in London yesterday.
But during 45 minutes of talks they were unable to provide an alternative figure.
Mr Clark told the Sun: “At the meeting I made clear my concerns that customers are being punished for their loyalty.
"It’s clear that while some people have benefitted from greater competition amongst energy suppliers, others have not.”
He added: “Energy companies should treat all of their customers fairly – not just those who switch between suppliers. I told the industry it needs to move quickly and come forward with clear actions to change their behaviour to treat customers fairly.”
A source said: “The Secretary of State found it quite extraordinary Energy UK said it was impossible to say what the actual margins are.”
On Monday, The Sun revealed an internal Energy UK report showed annual supplier costs to provide fuel for the typical household were just £844 a year.
That means a huge margin of 24 per cent on a standard variable tariff of £1,172. Most families are still on standard variable deals.
The Energy Secretary is desperate to get tough with suppliers – claiming they appear to be milking customers who stay loyal to a firm to offer cut price deals to those who ‘switch’ on the web.
In a statement Lawrence Slade, the head of Energy UK, said he had enjoyed a “clear and productive meeting” with Mr Clark.
He insisted: “Suppliers accept they need to make sure the energy market works better for everyone.
“It is a direct challenge the industry is committed to meet as a matter of urgency.”
He added: “We will work closely with Government and across the energy market to identify and implement actions that work and will make a material difference for all consumers.”
Separately yesterday, a survey claimed a third of working families are struggling to pay their energy bills and half are planning to cut their use to afford them.
Price comparison website uSwitch said almost four million working households - 32 per cent - are already under financial pressure over their gas and electricity bills.