Is it worth switching energy supplier?

As energy prices continue to rise, it's becoming more and more important for people to minimise their gas and electricity costs. A popular method is to switch supplier in the hope of getting a better deal, and there are many sites out there which let you easily compare tariffs from the various companies.

But, as the price rises are caused by spiralling wholesale energy costs which affect all utility companies, will you really be able to get a cheaper deal?

The answer is still yes for many people, especially those who have never switched before.

When the industry was privatised and deregulated, most people simply stayed with whoever took over their regional supply for electricity, and stuck with British Gas as the name they knew.

These customers 'inherited' high prices as they were automatically placed on the most expensive tariff in most cases.

With increased competition these days, your current company is probably offering cheaper prices to new customers rather than rewarding loyalty, and so making the switch to a competitor can still save you up to £100 a year according to impartial estimates.