EDF Energy responds to government’s tariff proposals

At EDF Energy we are already fully committed to giving our customers simple and transparent tariffs and we are determined to lead the way in rebuilding customer trust. Our own Customer Commitments launched earlier this year to offer Fair Value, Better Service and Simplicity have already led to significant progress in key areas outlined by the Energy Secretary.

Simpler tariffs and clearer information

The Government proposes to limit each supplier to four “core tariffs” per fuel, containing one variable and one fixed price tariff.

• EDF Energy has simplified its tariffs to just two types: fixed and standard variable.
• It is rolling out new simple, easy-to-understand bills, which have been researched and tested with customers. New annual statements will provide details of the cheapest tariff we offer. It will also confirm details of the customer’s current tariff, other tariff options and savings which could be made, for example by paying via direct debit.
• Ensuring all our products are available to both new and existing customers. We offer the same deals to all customers so those, for example without internet access, don’t lose out.
• A Blue +Price Promise product which notifies customers if a rival brings out a tariff which works out at £1 a week or more cheaper at typical consumption and comes with no exit fees.

More help for vulnerable customers

The Government proposes more help for vulnerable customers, with co-ordinated advice from voluntary groups to help them get a better deal and to improve their energy efficiency.

• We have already promised to ensure our most vulnerable customers automatically benefit from our cheapest tariff. We expect 100,000 customers to benefit and we remain the only supplier in Britain to make this pledge. We also offer free insulation and up to £200 cash back for vulnerable customers.
• EDF Energy has a national partnership with the Citizen’s Advice Bureau to offer free and impartial energy debt advice

Help collective purchasing schemes

The Government calls for ways to help collective switching

• We have also participated in collective switching initiatives such as the Which? Big Switch and worked in partnership with the Citizen’s Advice Bureau during the recent Big Energy Saving Week.

We have offered typical customers the lowest standard variable dual fuel prices of all major suppliers for 50 of the last 52 weeks. And this winter, our new standard prices will still be cheaper on average for typical customers than all other major suppliers which have announced price rises in recent months.

EDF Energy will now examine the proposals in detail and looks forward to working with ministers during the consultation period.