STOCKTON Borough residents are set to make big savings on their energy bills thanks to a collective purchasing scheme called the Big Community Switch.
The scheme is open for registration now and gives individuals the opportunity to join together to form a single buying unit through which they can negotiate cheaper energy bills. An auction will then be held on Tuesday 13 October and individuals will receive a personal offer and can then make a decision whether to switch to the winning supplier.
Over the previous three Big Community Switch auctions, which have seen Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council work in partnership with delivery partners iChoosr and Make It Cheaper, Stockton residents have collectively saved over £61,000 on their gas and electricity bills, with an average saving of just over £147 per household.
Registration is open now until midnight on Monday 12 October. The Big Community Switch then organises an auction and the energy supplier offering the best tariff will be able to offer residents a new contract. There is no cost or obligation for residents to register or accept the personal offer received.
Councillor Jim Beall, Deputy Leader of Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council, said: “Fuel poverty remains a key issue on our agenda and we are really pleased to be able to offer the Big Community Switch scheme to residents.
“This is a great opportunity for individuals across Stockton Borough to join forces and take a collective approach to getting a better deal. Many people are worried about switching providers but the Big Community Switch scheme aims to keep it easy and hassle free.
“I’d encourage everyone to register and see what savings they could potentially make.”
Billingham resident Kevin Pitt has previously benefitted as a resident from the Big Community Switch scheme to the tune of nearly £250.
“I signed up for the Big Community Switch auction last year and was surprised at just how easy it was.
“The scheme is a fantastic opportunity for people to see if they could save money on their energy bills alongside reducing energy waste and greenhouse gases.”
The Borough’s businesses and community groups can also make savings and secure a reduction of up to 30%, through the Make It Cheaper scheme.
The scheme can compare prices from different suppliers, help businesses and groups choose the right tariff for them and set up the contract – saving valuable time and reducing energy costs.
For full information on both the Big Community Switch and Make It Cheaper schemes, visitwww.stockton.gov.uk/bigcommunityswitch
Residents in need of support to help them register can contact the Stockton & District Advice and Information Service at 1 Bridge Road, Stockton-on-Tees, TS18 1BH (open Monday to Thursday, 9am to 3pm) or on 01642 615834.
Residents should have an annual energy statement or recent gas and electricity bill to hand when registering.