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Energy firms urged over surcharge for cheque users | Energy firms urged over surcharge for cheque users |
(40 minutes later) | |
Customers who pay their energy bills by cheque are being charged almost £100 a year more than those who use direct debit, according to new research. | Customers who pay their energy bills by cheque are being charged almost £100 a year more than those who use direct debit, according to new research. |
Which? Money based its findings on the standard annual dual-fuel tariffs of energy companies British Gas, EDF, E.on, Npower, Scottish Power and SSE. | Which? Money based its findings on the standard annual dual-fuel tariffs of energy companies British Gas, EDF, E.on, Npower, Scottish Power and SSE. |
It suggested those paying by quarterly cash and cheque paid an average of £98.60 more over the course of a year. | It suggested those paying by quarterly cash and cheque paid an average of £98.60 more over the course of a year. |
Which? said utility companies should give all customers a fair deal. | Which? said utility companies should give all customers a fair deal. |
Which? researcher Alex Kouzarides commented: "While it may suit the energy suppliers to manage direct debit accounts, many people still prefer more traditional methods or simply have no choice in their circumstances. | Which? researcher Alex Kouzarides commented: "While it may suit the energy suppliers to manage direct debit accounts, many people still prefer more traditional methods or simply have no choice in their circumstances. |
"It's vital that utilities companies develop fair and inclusive systems that ensure all consumers are given a fair deal." | "It's vital that utilities companies develop fair and inclusive systems that ensure all consumers are given a fair deal." |
E.on and other suppliers have pointed out that customers benefit from a prompt payment discount if they pay quickly. | |
Regulator Ofgem told the BBC if it saw evidence of unjustified differences between tariffs, it would take action against the companies responsible. | Regulator Ofgem told the BBC if it saw evidence of unjustified differences between tariffs, it would take action against the companies responsible. |
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