Just when we thought that the doorstep selling activities from the energy providers had ceased – no, apparently not all of the big six suppliers have signed up to this agreement, as yet. British Gas, EDF and Scottish & Southern Energy (SSE) have all suspended this method of attempting to persuade customers to change providers.
Npower is currently reviewing their position, but have confirmed that in their opinion, changes are necessary. Eon and Scottish Power are still continuing with trying to persuade customers to switch energy providers by doorstep sales.
What is the great attraction in trying to get customers to change their mind regarding which supplier provides their energy? Well, yes of course the answer is obvious, but the real question is, why do they feel that this is the best way? Research shows that out of every ten people who changed their supplier by this method, nine wouldn’t consider doing it again.
Next year the big six energy providers start the roll out of the installation of smart meters. At this time Npower has been the first provider to confirm that they won’t try any sales pitches during installation. If people are looking to change energy providers, and they do want a face to face discussion, that seems perfectly fine. If an appointment is made for a sales consultant to specifically see a customer who has requested this, this will be a really good way forward. If a customer doesn’t know how to find telephone numbers for other energy providers, there are many methods of obtaining the information.
It is always useful to discuss with neighbours their opinion about their energy provider. Are they been happy with the service, and the price paid for the electricity and gas, and how they pay their bill. Usually the cheapest way of paying for energy is by arranging a monthly Direct Debit. A neighbour will be able to give good indication as to the amount of energy they use. Obviously, if there are two adults and two children in the household they will consume considerably more electricity and gas than if there are only two people who live in your house. It will give a reasonable idea, and if you know all of your neighbours well, you may be able to make a direct comparison with others who live in a similar sized property and number of inhabitants.
Whatever happens in the future, the age of doorstep selling should be banned. If you don’t have a sign on your door saying that you don’t want cold callers or salespeople, get one (your local neighbourhood watch scheme should be able to advise on this) and place it in a prominent position. Once there is a sign it is now illegal for anyone to try and sell you anything.
Let us all hope that now Ofgem is looking into the activities of the energy suppliers, things will start to improve in the near future.