Energyman

Domestic Energy Price Cuts 2012 - update

2012-01-17T03:47:00.000-08:00

2012 Gas Prices and Electricity Prices Update History

Energy prices have been updated to 17 January 2012. Price updates are shown below as and when they arise.

Make sure you compare prices using our online energy comparison site to switch to the cheapest supplier.http://www.getmechrapbills.com

Supplier & Date
Description
17 January 2012
E.ON has announced the relaunch of E.ON Track and Save 11. This tariff was taken off the market on 12 January and is today relaunching with the same features but revised tariff rates.

16 January 2012
E.ON has announced a reduction of 6% on their standard electricity prices. The decrease, which equates to £31 off the average annual bill, will take effect from Monday 27th February 2012. E.ON claim that 75% of its customers will benefit and that customers on fixed deals will be able to change to another E.ON tariff for free if they wish.
Note: The new prices are not yet available and will be updated when received.

13 January 2012
npower have announced a price decrease effective Wednesday 1 February 2012 of 5% on their standard, capped and prepayment gas tariffs. There are no changes to their electricity prices.
Note: The new prices are not yet available and will be updated when received.

13 January 2012
Scottish Power have launched a new tariff, Online Fixed Price Energy May 2013, offering fixed prices until 30 April 2013. This is a monthly direct debit, online only tariff.

13 January 2012
EDF Energy have launched a new tariff, EDF Fix to March 2013. Offering fixed prices to 31 March 2013, this tariff is available to dual fuel customers and electricity only customers. Paper billing is optional.

12 January 2012
first:utility have launched a new tariff, first:utility iSave Fixed Price V1 March 2013. This tariff offers fixed prices until 31 March 2013 but only available to dual fuel monthly direct debit customers.

12 January 2012
E.ON have removed EON Track and Save 11 from all sales channels today until further notice.

12 January 2012
SSE Gas Price Reduction.
SSE has announced a 4.5% reduction in household gas unit prices effective from 26th March 2012.SSE have also extended the cap on any new price increases until October 2012 but decreases will be made where possible.SSE have withdrawn Price Fix 7.
Note: These price updates are not yet included in the results tables. The price reduction will take place on 26th March 2012 and new prices will be updated when issued around in February 2012.

12 January 2012
British Gas Price Cut.
British Gas has today cut standard electricity prices by an average 5% based on average consumption. The cut takes effect immediately.Note: The new prices are updated on the UKPower price comparison site.

11 January 2012
EDF Energy have announced household gas price cuts of 5% effective 7th February 2012.Note: The new prices are not yet available and will be updated when received.
06 January 2012
OVO Energy have launched new, reduced prices by approximately 5%. This is the first supplier to reduce prices and further price cuts are expected from other suppliers. Updated 6th Jan 2012.
These prices are updated and included in the results tables.

05 January 2012
E.ON have launched a new tariff, E.ON Fixed Price Saver April 2013. This tariff offers fixed prices until 1 April 2013 at rates 5% lower than E.ON's Standard tariff.

Energy Price Reductions

2012-01-13T09:11:00.000-08:00

Energy company Npower has announced that it will cut gas prices by 5% from 1 February.

The move comes in the same week that three other major suppliers have announced price cuts, as wholesale prices dip during a mild winter. Small suppliers OVO Energy , First Utility and Ebico have also announced price cuts.

British Gas has cut its electricity prices by 5% with immediate effect and SSE will reduce gas tariffs by 4.5% on 26 March.

EDF Energy will cut its gas tariff by 5% on 7 February.

The mild winter has led to lower demand for energy, with wholesale prices having fallen recently.
"It is obviously no coincidence that several energy companies have announced price reductions this week and we do not apologise for joining them," said Paul Massara, chief commercial officer of Npower.

Npower raised its gas prices by 15.7% and its electricity prices by 7.2% in October. This time, its electricity price is unchanged.

Scottish Power and E.On customers will expect to see their suppliers rapidly follow suit given the speed from other suppliers.

These cuts will not compensate for the big rises in 2011, they will not transform the energy market or significantly lessen the burden on hard pressed consumers.

Customers should be aware that whilst the reductions are welcome, the amount of the reductions are approximately one third of the Autumn price increases and so far all the major suppliers have only reduced the cost of one fuel.

The price reductions additionally are only off the standard rate products and these are in general 10-15% higher than the best tariffs available online at sites such as

http://www.getmecheapbills.com

British Gas Suspend Doorstep Sales

2011-08-12T07:25:00.000-07:00

British Gas have today announced that they are suspending doorstep energy sales for the next 3 months.

full details can be found here. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-14505027

This move follows Scottish and Southern's decision to end doorstep sales following allegations of mis-selling and is the result of a Customer Focus campaign.

We advise anyone seeking a better deal for their domestic energy to check our independent and impartial comparison site http://www.getmecheapbills.com which lists ALL UK suppliers and deals and allows customers to choose the best deal for themselves, according to a number of relevent criteria. Our comparison site is fully accredited to the Customer Focus Confidence Code -

http://http://www.consumerfocus.org.uk/assets/1/files/2009/11/154_20081017141314_e_@@_Consumer_Focus_Confidence_Code.pdf

Details of the code can be found at

British Gas Announce Price Rises

2011-07-08T05:40:00.001-07:00

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-14077651

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/personalfinance/consumertips/household-bills/8625125/British-Gas-raises-prices-by-18pc.html

British Gas have today announced electic price rises of 16& and gas price rises of 18% to come into force in Mid August.

The changes will affect 9 million households to an average increase of £190 / year.

All domestic customers, and particularly Brish Gas customers should consider switching immediately using http://www.getmecheapbills.com and locking themselves into a FIXED PRICE deal before the best products are withdrawn.

Scottish Power have already announced substantial price increases and the other energy suppliers are certain to follow suit in the coming weeks.

OFGEM Press Release

2011-06-22T10:31:00.000-07:00

SUPPLY COMPANIES FAILING CONSUMERS: OFGEM PROPOSES RADICAL OVERHAUL

 Ofgem proposes sweeping away complex and unfair pricing practices
 Big Six required to auction up to 20 per cent of their electricity generation output
 Firms risk facing a Competition Commission referral this year if they frustrate reforms
 Investigation launched into Scottish Power’s standard credit prices
 Ofgem to appoint independent accountants to improve accounting disclosures
 Ofgem to review whether energy companies are frustrating switching in the non-domestic market

Ofgem’s Chairman Lord Mogg said: “Ofgem’s proposals should force open the electricity and gas markets to ensure the market works effectively for consumers. The energy supply companies have eight weeks in which to engage constructively with Ofgem’s proposals.

If firms frustrate reforms they risk ending up at the Competition Commission (CC). This is a holistic package of changes. We will also discuss with Government, if we believe our consumer protection powers need reinforcement.”

Ofgem’s review found that competition is being stifled by a combination of tariff complexity, poor supplier behaviour, and lack of transparency. Further, the degree of influence the big six assert on the retail market has not diminished since Ofgem’s 2008 probe. The clearest example, being the finding that for the first time there is evidence that the Big Six have adjusted prices in response to rising costs more quickly than they reduced them when costs fell.

Chief Executive Alistair Buchanan said: “Energy companies have failed to play it straight with consumers and so Ofgem is proposing to break the stranglehold the Big Six have over the electricity market by making them auction up to 20 per cent of their generation output. This would increase price transparency and make it easier for new players to enter the retail market.

“Consumers have told us that energy suppliers’ prices are too complicated. It is no surprise that they are bamboozled when tariff complexity has increased from 180 to more than 300 since 2008. That is why we are planning to sweep away this complexity so suppliers’ prices are fully exposed to allow easy price comparisons.

“We are also backing these reforms with a tough approach to enforcement. Consumers must have confidence that energy companies are playing fair at a time when they are being asked to foot the £200 billion bill to pay for the investment Britain needs to ensure secure and sustainable energy supplies.”

Today Ofgem also announced a new investigation into Scottish Power and is exploring whether it needs to bring similar actions in the non domestic market (where the concerns rest on switching being frustrated). This is in addition to an ongoing investigation into British Gas, EDF Energy and npower and into how they handle consumers’ complaints. Finally our investigations into misselling by EDF Energy, npower, Scottish Power, and Scottish and Southern Energy are also continuing.
Another finding of the review is that in general the companies’ response to the 2008 Probe reforms has been disappointingly poor. Ofgem proposes to strengthen the existing reforms and pursue companies with appropriate enforcement action if they fail to implement them.
Further, the company accounting disclosures, required by the Probe, have led Ofgem to call in an independent accountancy firm to examine forensically companies’ returns. Ofgem is also considering whether more needs to be done to help vulnerable consumers in addition to its five proposals. This may involve us liaising with government about additional consumer protection powers.

Full details can be found here
http://www.ofgem.gov.uk/media/pressrel/Documents1/RMRFinal%20Final.pdf

We Go The Extra Mile (or 5000)

2011-06-11T08:49:00.000-07:00

At Phoenix Energy we believe in going the extra mile in order to help our customers and clients. We offer a personal service - all phone calls are answered or returned personally and all e-mails are returned. Being a small company we are able to respond to the individual needs of our customers - even extending to arranging electricity meter appointments and energy contracts from a beach in Floida. We believe this level of service, if not unique, is certainly refreshing in these times.

As a bit of fun I have attached some 'holiday snaps' showing examples of water and electricity infrastructure in USA / Mexico. I personally feel a bit uncomfortable with electricity meters nailed to a lamp post, especially during tropical storms, and as for transformers transformers on the beach !

Power Transformers - Jamaican Style! A bit messy in the streets! More wires than Bob Marley has dreadlocks!

Electric meters - Mexico. I like the fact that they are outside of businesses, would make my life much easier if NEDL did this

. Power transforners on the beach! This has GOT to be dangerous! The equipment is rusty

! American electricity infrastructure - they can put men on the moon but not electricity underground!

This isn't the Hollywood Walk of Fame - its water meters in Key West!

American electrical supply and metering - outdoors on street (very neat job)

We are specialists in utility infrastructure work - we help builders and property developers to get new electricity, gas, water and telephone connections into new build and converted properties - we can also help with sewerage work! Our work has included everything from a meter move to the utility infrastructure for an industrial estate (and most things in between)

Call us to arrange free site visit and quotation. 0800 458 6460

Domestic Energy Prices Rising Again

2011-06-09T12:02:00.000-07:00

"The energy price rises we've been expecting for months have finally arrived."

Scottish Power is the first energy company to announce huge increases to the cost of their standard gas and electricity, with rises of 19 and 10 per cent respectively. Taking effect on August 1st 2011 these price rises will add £175 to the average cost of a yearly bill and affect 2.4 million households. On a national scale this adds an extra £420 million to Scottish Power customers' annual bills.

"Now really is the time to get on to the best priced energy tariff for your usage level and area you live. The cheapest online energy tariff is currently Online Saver 10 offered by EDF Energy with average annual bills of £940*. Bearing in mind historical energy market price rises, it's highly likely the other energy providers will follow suit. In the face of rising prices, opting for the market leading fixed product Fix Saver v2, from EDF Energy with average bills of £1,009 is the best way to safeguard against further price increases from the energy giants.

"A recent moneysupermarket.com survey showed 30 per cent of Brits would only need to see their outgoings increase by less than £100 a month before it became impossible to meet every day living costs**.

The same research found 19 per cent of people felt the rising cost of paying utility bills such as heating was causing the biggest strain on their finances. With a increase of this size in one fell swoop, UK consumers could soon find themselves in hot water when faced with energy bills they may not be able to afford.

"Scottish Power customers changing to the best priced tariff today would see average annual savings of £446. Shopping around using a price comparison site for the best value energy product is vital and I urge everyone worried about the cost of their bills to act quickly as the best priced products are unlikely to be available for long

Customers can review their energy bills at http://www.getmecheapbills.com and switch online in a few minutes and fix rates before the next set of price increases.

There will be further announcements soon from the other providers - who will be next to increase prices.

Are Your Energy Bills About to go Up?

2011-05-10T12:29:00.000-07:00

Price Alert - Energy plans Ending

The following energy plans are ending shortly

British Gas - Websaver6 - 1st May 2011

E.ON - FixOnline7 - 1st May 2011

E.ON - Track & Save Version 4 - 1st June 2011

npower - Sign Online v18 - 30th June 2011

EDF Energy - Online S@ver6 - 30th June 2011

Sainsbury's Energy - Online S@ver6 - 30th June 2011

EDF Energy - Annual Fix v3 - 30th June 2011

British Gas - Price Promise June 2011 - 30th June 2011

You could be automatically moved onto a more expensive 'Standard' plan at the end of your price fix - this could be considerably more than the prive you are currently paying - up to £242! ( based on average use Scottish Power standard vs Online Energy Saver 14)

Check you plan now to ensure you dont get caught out!

If you have never swiched you could save a considerable amount of money at

http://www.getmecheapbills.com

OFGEM Press Release re Price Increases

2011-03-28T09:29:00.000-07:00

OFGEM MAKES ENERGY SUPPLIERS GIVE 30 DAYS ADVANCE NOTICE OF PRICE RISES

• Ofgem confirms household energy suppliers must give customers at least 30 days notification of price increases

• New rule also means that consumers must have 30 days advance notice of any change in their contract which leaves them significantly worse off

• Advance notification of price increases builds on Ofgem’s proposed reforms which aim to sweep away complexity in energy pricing Ofgem has today confirmed new rules that mean energy suppliers must give consumers at least 30 days advance notice before putting up their prices. The changes come into effect on 28 April 2011. This means that suppliers have 30 days in which to put these changes into practice.

Rest of press release. http://www.ofgem.gov.uk/Media/PressRel/Documents1/30%20day%20rule%20280311.pdf

This is not before time - I cannot think of any other area of life where a supplier can increase prices and not tell a customer till afterwards (up to 90days previously) If your supplier informs you of a price increase check out the other prices available from ALL Suppliers at http://www.getmecheapbills.com/ and make a fair comparison.

Do not stand for bad treatment and high prices from your supplier.

As an aside, Utility Warehouse announced a price increase in certain areas of the country last week, to take place at 7 days notice! In the spirit of the new OFGEM ruling will they be postponing this increase for 30 days?

EDF Energy Last of Big 6 to Raise Domestic Energy Prices

2011-02-03T13:37:00.000-08:00

EDF Energy is to increase gas prices by 6.5% and electricity prices by 7.5% from 2 March, the company has said.

The company is the last of the "big six" energy firms to increase prices, and it follows a heavily-promoted decision to freeze prices over the winter.

EDF blamed wholesale costs and other charges for the change.

Energy regulator Ofgem is currently investigating the prices charged to domestic customers.

Price changes

The move from EDF comes the day before E.On's price change comes into effect. E.On's customers will be subject to an average 9% increase in electricity prices and a 3% rise in gas prices.

In the last week of November, Scottish Power increased electricity bills by an average of 8.9% and prices for gas customers increased by an average of 2%.

Scottish and Southern Energy followed by putting up its domestic gas tariffs by 9.4% at the start of December.

The 7% rise in gas and electricity bills for British Gas customers started on 10 December.

Npower customers saw their gas and electricity bills rise by 5.1% on 4 January.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-12359722 - for further details

VAT Increases and Exempt Businesses.

2011-01-04T10:55:00.000-08:00

The Standard rate of Value Added Tax (VAT) rose today from 17.5% to 20%.

In line with curent legislation, there are two rates of VAT applicable to the supplies of electricity and gas used for business and non domestic purposes.

Standard rate
Reduced rate

Where an electricity or gas supply is used wholly or partially for domestic or charitable non-business use, that part of the supply qualifies for the reduced rate of VAT. This is known as 'qualifying use.'

Examples of businesses which can qualify for reduced rate VAT on the ground of domestic use include

Self-containned duelling such as houses or flats (applicable to pubs)
Job-related accomodation (vicarages, manse etc)
Monastry, nunnery or similar
Residential accodation for Armed Forces
Residential Homes for children, old people etc
Hospice or palliative care
Caravan parks / holiday accomodation
Shower blocks
Staff accomodation in hotels etc
Residential accomodation in school
Ancillary rooms used by boarders
Landlord supplies

In addition to the domestic usage as listed above, certain other types of supply are considered to be non-business usage and charged at the reduced rate

Charities
Churches and other places of worship
Village halls / community centres / leisure centres etc
Educational establishments

Within each catorgory there are rules governing what activities are governed by the regulations, not all businesses will qualify and it is also possible to have mixed usage where a proportion of the energy bill is charged 20% for VAT and the rest is charged at 5%.

It is very important for anyone running a business or commercial or charitable activity, as listed abot to consult their accountant for advice or FREE ADVICE can be given on this subject by calling John at Phoenix Energy on 07974 387 218 or 0800 458 64 60

Now that the VAT rate has changed it is more important than ever to ensure that your organisation is paying the correct rate, particularly if you do not have provision to reclaim VAT.

All businessses using less than 12000 kWh / annum of electricity or 73200 kWh /annum currently pay rate at the reduced rate.

New Year's Resolution Anyone?

2011-01-03T11:04:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year to Phoenix Energy customers old and new.

A new year is often the time for people to make New Year's Resolutions - lose some weight, stop smoking, get fit - but probably the most common resolution is to save money! Most of the big 6 energy suppliers, and a few small ones, have recently treated us to a round of pre-Xmas festive price rises - very seasonal of them! Combined with the worst December weather for 120 years mean that millions of people will get nasty suprises when the electricity / gas bills arrive on doormats shortly!

Phoenix Energy offer our domestic customers a way to cut their energy bills. It is probable that anyone who has never switched, would be able to pay even less money than last year, despite the price hikes. We offer a range of fixed, capped, internet only, green energy and pre-payment deals to suit every customer, however large or small their bill and however the customer wishes to pay. Our domestic site is called GET ME CHEAP BILLS . COM and can be accessed via this link

http://www.getmecheapbills.com/

For business customers, without the price protections afforded to domestic customers, the price rises have been much more steep. Another effect of the business market is that many businesses sign long energy contracts of 3-5 years and anyone coming off a fixed contract in the last year will have had to renew at a significantly higher price than previously obtained.

The graph above shows wholesale gas costs, which is one of the main factors affecting energy prices.

I have tabulated below the typical aquisation tariff for one of the leading energy suppliers for a typical small business customer over the last year.

March 2011 - 10.69p
December 2010 - 10.45p
October 2010 - 10.35p
July 2010 - 8.70p
April 2010 - 8.78p
December 2009 - 8.92p

There are many types of business electricity meters and different rates across the country, and sometimes a supplier is more competitively priced at certain periods of the year but the overall price rise is 16.5% between the dates shown, (with a small decrease in the summer) follows the market trend and should be indicative of future energy costs.

Phoenix Energy offer a range of different suppliers and also different tariff lengths to meet the needs of all UK businesses.

To obtain a no - obligation price quote, for up to 120 days ahead please call 0800 458 6460

Please also use this number for any other queries or information.

If your contract is not due to expire yet please contain us for details of how we can help you with your energy renewals and to ensure that you handle the termination process correctly to avoid being 'rolled over'. We offer a free of charge service to our customers and can contact your supplier on your behalf to facilitate a trouble free transfer.

Fears Over Record Gas Bills In Cold Weather

2010-12-02T02:12:00.000-08:00

Households face the possibility of further rises in their energy bills, after the cold weather that has struck the country caused gas prices to rise to the highest level for 18 months.

The National Grid has reported a significant increase in the demand for power as many parts of Britain have been experiencing unprecedented low temperatures for this time of year.

Demand for gas yesterday was 25 per cent more than it was at this time last year and the third highest daily amount on record, as households and businesses turned up their thermostats.

The surge in demand caused concern in the wholesale markets, with the price of gas jumping 11 per cent to 62p per therm – the highest level in 18 months.
Electricity also surged ahead in price, climbing to £71.25 per megawatt-hour, up from £55 the day before – the highest level in two years and up two-thirds since the beginning of winter.

Experts gave warning that as a result households face the possibility of record energy bills, as they turn up their heating, plug in electric heaters and stay at home.

There were also fears that not only could consumers use more gas, but they could pay more through companies putting up their prices.

The so-called "spot" prices in gas and electricity – which jumped yesterday – are the price companies pay for immediate delivery.

Though companies buy the bulk of their supplies on the forward market, by buying contracts guaranteeing delivery in three or six months' time, they rely heavily on the spot market to cover short-falls caused by sharp jumps in demand.
Experts yesterday warned that a prolonged cold spell could have an impact on domestic power bills.

The current average annual household energy bill – including gas and electricity – is £1,228. This is slightly lower than the record it hit during January 2009 when they reached an all-time high of £1,293, but nearly double what they were five years ago.

The majority of experts fear that there are more energy price rises to come. This winter three of the big six energy suppliers have announced bill increases, with most kicking in yesterday at the start of the month and as the cold weather started to bite.

One supplier, EDF, has promised not to raise their prices until March 2011, but the remaining two, E. On and Npower are widely expected to increase their tariffs if not in the next few days, then certainly after Christmas.

Not only are the remaining three suppliers expected to increase their tariffs, but the fear is that those who have already moved could put up their prices once again. In 2008 all of the suppliers put up their prices on two separate occassions, within three months of the first rise.

The more immediate fear is that consumers will have to pay far more for their energy this month than at any other time, because they are using far more to keep warm.
According to Energyhelpline, a price comparison site, in the last three days the average household has consumed 47 per cent more energy than normal for this time of year.

In January 2010, when temperatures plummeted in a similar fashion to this week, Britain's reserves of gas fell substantially. National Grid had to impose gas rationing on some companies, such as car factories.

Most believe that the country is in a better position this winter, however market insiders expressed surprise yesterday that European companies started to buy gas that was held in British storage facilities, sending gas across the Channel through the pipeline known as the interconnector.

Last week Ofgem, the industry regulator, launched an investigation into the major gas and electricity suppliers, after it calculated that companies were making £90 per profit from each customer on an annual basis, a jump of 38 per cent over the last three months. It said it wanted to check if firms were "being straight" with its customers.

Some said that this investigation would make it very difficult for energy companies to put through price rises without incurring a political backlash.

Gas is used to heat about 80 per cent of homes and to generate about half of the country’s electricity.

Business customers should call 0800 458 6460

Domestic customers can save money by visiting this site http://www.getmecheapbills.com

British Gas Price Increases

2010-11-12T12:02:00.000-08:00

British Gas customers will face a 7% rise in gas and electricity bills this winter, the company has announced.

The increase, which comes into effect on 10 December, was the result of rising wholesale prices, it said.

The rise affects eight million customers, but the company added that its 300,000 most vulnerable customers would initially not be charged more.

British Gas has become the second major UK energy supplier to announce price increases for the winter months.

It said that wholesale gas prices had risen by 25% since the spring.

"We know that rising energy prices come at a difficult time for many," said British Gas managing director Phil Bentley.

The company said prices for those on a typical dual-fuel deal would go up by £1.50 a week.

Vulnerable customers on the "Essentials" package with British Gas will have prices held until 1 April 2011.

Full details can be found at the BBC website. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-11741766

It is likely that the other 'Big 6'and the smaller suppliers will take this opportunity to increase energy costs for their customers. Southern Electric (SSE) have already increased their gas prices, although EDF have announced that they do not intend to raise prices before the winter ends.

Phoenix Energy recommend that domestic customers sign up for a fixed price deal at our comparison site before the prices of the best fixed tariffs raise again.

http://www.getmecheapbills.com

First 'Big 6' Domestic Energy Rise in 2 Years

2010-10-29T10:09:00.000-07:00

Scottish and Southern Energy (SSE) is putting up its domestic gas tariffs by 9.4% at the start of December.

The company, one of the UK's biggest energy suppliers, said the rise would affect 3.6 million customers.

The company blamed the increasing wholesale cost of buying gas which it said had gone up by 25% since March this year. The company said it was sorry that the higher bills would come in during this winter.

"The last few months have been marked by rising wholesale gas prices and, having absorbed losses in our gas supply business for some time, we can not delay an increase in retail prices any longer," said Alistair Phillips-Davies, of SSE.

"I am sorry it will take effect during the winter period." Those affected include 380,000 customers in Scotland and 440,000 customers in Wales.

Price effect
The company said that people were being more careful with their energy consumption, so it calculated the price rise would be £4.64 a month for the typical customer, or £56 a year.
However, taking regulator Ofgem's standard consumption measure, the effect would be a £5.60 a month rise, or £67 a year.

This is the first time for two years that standard prices among the "big six" energy suppliers have risen, and follows some price falls during last year.

After 1 December, SSE customers with a dual-fuel tariff would still be paying bills that were £33 cheaper than when prices were at their peak in January 2009, said Ann Robinson, of Uswitch, but she said the timing was a concern for customers.

With winter about to kick in, this is a body blow for consumers. What nobody wants to see is a repeat of 2008, when suppliers last put prices up and bills rocketed by £381 or 42% as a result," she said.

There could be more bills rises to come.

Earlier this month, Ofgem said that gas and electricity bills would both have to rise by £3 a year, as £32bn was needed to improve the UK's distribution infrastructure. Ofgem said energy firms needed to spend that sum over the next 10 years to "keep the lights on" and meet the government's green energy targets.

Other suppliers

Customers of the other major energy providers will have to wait to see if the rest of the industry also puts up prices.

"While we hope that other companies do not follow suit, history has shown us they adopt a pack mentality on pricing," said Audrey Gallacher, of watchdog Consumer Focus.
The watchdog has argued that companies should have reduced prices when wholesale costs were lower. It claimed that SSE's gas prices had fallen by 2% since wholesale costs peaked in 2008, while the wholesale gas price had declined by more than 40%.

A spokesman for the Department of Energy and Climate Change said: "While, on behalf of consumers, we are disappointed in the decision taken by SSE to increase their gas prices, this is a decision for the company which must compete for customers in the marketplace.

"Consumers should therefore continue to assess regularly whether they are getting the best energy deal for them and to take steps to switch supplier and tariff if not."

(article courtesy of BBC)

Domestic customers should check their own energy and see if they are getting a good deal by checking http://www.getmecheapbills.com

Utility Supply and Metering Work

2010-10-24T09:35:00.000-07:00

One of the areas in which Phoenix Energy specialise is the provision of utility supply to new build, refurbished and converted buildings.

We organise everything from the initial applications, organising quotations and payments, organising site visits and the scheduling of work to meet our clients requirements. Finally we organise meter appointments and register the meters to the appropriate company, indevidual or organisation. Phoenix Energy have organised over 800 metered supplies at dozens of site, predominately across the North East but also in Yorkshire, London and Manweb areas.

Working with the utility infrastructire providers can be very tiring and stressfull and we take away alot of hassles from architects, site managers, foremen, contractors and site owners - allowing them to do what they are good at (and are paid for!) building houses and making money.

I have used photos from 2 of our sites to illustrate what we do. The first site shows a small developement of 5 houses in Teeside - this job had stopped because of the recession but my client finished off the building of these houses - we organised all the utility and metering work.

Before. After

The second set of photos shows an onging development of barn conversions into 10 luxury houses in Co Durham. This site is ongoing and now the utilities are provided to the site, the plots will be indevidually sold and completed as self-builds, but with utility provision.

Site Distance from main road

One of the main problems, logistically and in terms of cost was the distance of the development from the utility networks, approx 500 m. All utilities supplies had to be placed in field to left of access road.

before work work ongoing

Street lighting New electricity transformer

Landlord supply for site 63mm gas main

The main road and the distance from the road can be seen in the above photo.

water supply added to trench before backfilling.

first house first house completed - (the gas and water service piping can be seen in the foreground)

The Phoenix Energy consultancy work on the above 2 projects assists the developers in the completion of their property developements. This compensates for the cost of the work many times over as any problems or delays with the utilites can have major effects on the construction timetables, leading to massive cost overruns.

We can be contact for this type of work on 0800 458 6460 or direct to John Lewins on 07974 387 218.

Green Energy - Somes Obscure and Interesting Facts

2010-10-16T07:25:00.000-07:00

At Phoenix Energy we believe very strongly in ethical values and sustainable energy. We have a range of green products from major suppliers to meet the needs of our environmentally conscious customers. We supply renewable energy to business customers using energy from EDF and for our domestic customers our website http://www.getmecheapbills.com has renewaable energy from all of the leading suppliers and also an excellent deal from OVO energy.

There are some interesting and thought provoking links below. (taken from Greenpeace)

Wind could meet 12% of global power demand by 2020, and up to 22% by 2030.

Subsidies to fossil fuels worldwide outweigh renewable energy support by a ratio of 12:1.

On November 9th, 2009, Spain generated more than half its electricity demand with wind power.

A project is underway 2 deliver one sixth of Europe's electricity fm solar plants in the Sahara by 2050.

Price Waterhouse Cooper says Europe and North Africa could run on 100% renewable energy by 2050.

China built (roughly) one windmill an hour in 2009.

Wind overtook coal as the third-largest producer of power in Spain in 2009.

The annual market for renewable technology will rise fm appx US$100 billion today, to $600 bn+ by 2030.

Europe DECOMMISSIONED more coal, fuel oil and nuclear capacity than it installed in 2009.

Solar energy is now working at night on a commercial scale. A plant in Spain has seven hours of heat storage.

The global financial crisis didn't stifle the US wind power market: it grew by 39% in 2009.

China become the largest investor in clean energy in 2009, investing $16 billion more than the US.

Concentrated Solar Power plants focus the suns rays with mirrors at temperatures which melt steel.

The world's largest wind farm is in Texas.

Geothermal power provides 10% of New Zealand's electricity needs.

Iceland's power supply went from 75% imported coal to more than 80% local geothermal and hydro in 30 years.

In the space of just 5 years, Portugal's electric grid leapt from 15% to 45% renewables.

Concentrated Solar Power could employ 200,000 people by 2020, 2.1 million by 2050.

Four of Big 6 Energy Suppliers Face OFGEM Investigation

2010-09-02T11:52:00.000-07:00

Four of the "big six" UK energy suppliers are to be investigated amid concerns of mis-selling to customers, the regulator has announced.

Npower, Scottish Power, Scottish and Southern Energy, and EDF Energy all face questions over face-to-face and telephone sales of energy contracts.
Ofgem said it had received information from a variety of sources suggesting they could have breached new rules.
The quartet said they would work with Ofgem on the investigation.

Research by the regulator in 2008 found that, of those who switched their energy supplier, more than half did so in response to contact with a salesman.
But it found that many who switched following doorstep sales ended up on a more expensive tariff because they were misled, or found it difficult to compare bills.
As a result, Ofgem brought in new regulations at the end of last year aimed at tightening up the sales process.

The new requirements included:
supplying a customer with an estimate before any face-to-face sales are concluded
giving, in most cases, a comparison between the new offer and the customer's current deal
actively preventing mis-selling to customers on the doorstep and over the telephone.

The four energy companies face an investigation into whether these new licence agreements have been breached.
"We expect all suppliers to comply with these tougher obligations, but if our investigations find otherwise, we will take strong action," said Andrew Wright, of Ofgem.
The regulator has the power to fine a company up to 10% of its turnover if a breach is discovered.

Previously, under the preceding mis-selling rules, Ofgem fined Npower £1.8m in 2008. London Electricity - now part of EDF Energy - was fined £2m in 2002.

Views expressed by the four energy companies suggest they will vigorously refute any claims of mis-selling.
David Mannering, the corporate economic regulation director at Npower, said: "We fully support Ofgem in making sure that customers clearly understand the products on offer to them and we are confident that the processes we have in place mean that we comply with our regulatory obligations."
Scottish Power has the highest proportion of complaints per 100,000 customers made to advice line Consumer Direct this year. However, not all of these complaints are necessarily justified, as they are just the view of the consumer.
Its spokesman said the company would answer questions raised by Ofgem.
Scottish Power insists on the highest standards possible for all of our sales agents, and invests heavily in training and development to maintain these standards," he said.
EDF Energy said that it believed it was fully compliant with the rules, and trained its staff fully, including refresher briefings. All new sales were verified by telephone to confirm the customer's intention to switch.
And SSE said it believed it was complying with the new rules.
"As a responsible company we take seriously all our customers' issues and would ask any prospective or existing customer to contact us if they are concerned, and we will work with them to resolve the situation," SSE said.
Christine McGourty, director of Energy UK, which represents the leading gas and electricity companies, said: "The companies involved will collaborate fully with the Ofgem investigation and are awaiting further details from the regulator.
"The new regulations that cover doorstep selling are part of the industry's EnergySure Code of Practice and members undergo a rigorous independent annual audit to ensure all the obligations are being met.
"Any sales agent in breach of the code will be struck off the approved energy sales register. Companies take their customers' concerns seriously and would urge customers to call them directly with any concerns they have."

Helpline
Meanwhile, Ofgem is urging any householders who believe they have been mis-sold energy on the doorstep or on the telephone to report the case to the Consumer Direct hotline by calling 08454 040506 and choosing option one.
However, the current system still encourages mis-selling, according to Audrey Gallacher, of watchdog Consumer Focus.
"Complaints have declined since new rules came into effect this year, but suppliers still seem to be flouting the rules," she said.
"Some customers are still being given misleading quotes and information, which leave them worse off when they switch provider.
"While many doorstep sales people will do a good job, the pay and rewards system continues to encourage mis-selling, despite years of regulation and voluntary initiatives.
"If better advice for customers and enforcement of the tougher rules doesn't end the flagrant abuse of this form of selling, the big question will be whether it should be completely banned."

Article courtesy of BBC

Phoenix Energy recommend getting independent advice or visiting our independent and inpartial pice comparison site.
http://www.getmecheapbills,com/

A New Round of Price Increases?

2010-08-05T12:46:00.000-07:00

First Utility has increased energy prices for its existing customers by up to a quarter.

The start-up supplier has put up some of its prices by 23%, paving the way for the possibility of a new raft of increases from the “big six” energy companies.

Customers who are on First Utility's two variable online dual fuel tariffs - isave v1 and isave v2 - can expect increases to their energy bills.

Based on an average household, the isave v2 tariff has risen by 23.3% to £1136 a year from £921.
This deal is now £254 more expensive than the best online dual fuel deal, SaveOnline v2 from E.ON which stands at £882 a year, according to figures from moneysupermarket.com

Meanwhile, the isave v1 has also gone up from £965 a year on average to £1136 a year - an increase of 17.7%.

The news of price hikes is a stark contrast from earlier this year when First Utility named itself a price pioneer and the first energy firm in the UK to offer a dual fuel tariff costing less than £900.

Mark Daeche, chief executive officer of First Utility, said: "Last year Ofgem agreed to increase the charges that the gas and electricity distribution and transmission companies charge all Energy Suppliers. The increase in these charges came into effect on 1 April 2010.

“This is an industry-wide pricing change that all suppliers in the energy marketplace have to deal with.”
Daeche also blamed the rise in energy wholesale prices for the price hikes.
He added: “In addition wholesale energy prices have increased significantly since March 2010.
“We have been able to absorb these additional costs and delay increasing our prices until now, however it is has become apparent that these costs are likely to remain high for the foreseeable future.
“We will be reviewing this situation on a regular basis so that we can pass on price reductions directly to the consumer as soon as we can.“

At the end of July First Utility pulled two of its online deals - the smart online saver 4 and the isave V3.2 - and lauched its isave v 4 and smart online saver 5.

Is this the start of a new round of price increases from the 'big 6'? We recommend shopping around in order to obtain the best deals - particularly First Utility customers and customers coming off fixed price deals.

http://www.getmecheapbills.com lists all of the energy deals currently on offer. Check now to see how much you could save.

FREE Energy Monitors for Business customers

2010-07-20T09:37:00.000-07:00

Phoenix Energy are independent energy brokers and consultants, working with all of the leading suppliers with the aim of reducing business energy bills. Our customers cover all sectors of business and commerce, from corner shops to industrial manufacturing sites.

To celebrate the launch of our new bi-monthly newsletter, Phoenix Energy are running a promotion to increase business environmental awareness and to reduce the energy usage of its customers.

For every new business energy customer, signing a contract through Phoenix Energy, we will give away a FREE Eco-Eye Elite energy monitor.

The Eco-Eye constantly monitors the amount of electricity coming into a business and clearly displays the energy usage in either Kilowatts or in cost and is a visual reminder to think about how much power a business is using. Using an energy monitor helps identify wastage and encourages businesses to make changes which will reduce carbon footprint, making a real difference to electricity bills as well as the environment. The average energy reduction of businesses using this type of monitor is 15%

Simple to install, and easy to use, Eco-eye makes you aware of your electricity usage and will have you saving your money from the first time you use it. With real time information up-dating every 4 seconds, you can identify which appliances are energy efficient and those which are not!

Eco-eye monitors retails for approximately £50 so we believe this is a tremendous offer, particularly since using Phoenix Energy to organise your energy contracts will also usually give an average cost saving of 10-25%
Details of our monitors can be found at

http://www.eco-eye.com/

We have previously offered this promotion to Business Clubs North East members and our customers have experienced significant savings in usage as well as savings on energy bills – a ‘win - win’ situation!

An End to Fuel Poverty?

2010-07-19T08:54:00.000-07:00

With more and more customers falling into the fuel poverty* trap (latest estimates are around 4.8 million homes) Energylinx asks the question why government departments have not focused on resolving this at grass roots levels by encouraging customers to simply switch energy supplier to the least cost supplier.

Energylinx predicts that with careful management of those customer's transferring, ensuring that they do geniunely receive a 100% impartial comparison, that the likelihood is that fuel poverty could be eradicated in the UK almost overnight. The only negative issue is that if this was to happen energy suppliers would be forced to increase energy costs as they simply could not maintain their current competitive position with the sheer number of new customers joining them at the most competitive rates.

Energylinx predicts that if in an ideal world that all 4.8million fuel poor switch supplier to the least cost supplier for their household then energy prices across the board would need to increase by circa. 3% to allow suppliers to maintain current profit margins. The result is that the 4.8 million homes taken out of fuel poverty some 600,000 would ultimately fall back into that position.

At this level government initiatives could readily help reduce this further by the use of programmes such as http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Pensionsandretirementplanning/Benefits/BenefitsInRetirement/DG_185940.
With some simple changes to this very welcome programme a further 150,000 households could easily be helped out of the pain of fuel poverty. A further easy change would be stop paying the 63,740 pensioners who are resident full time outside the UK their Santa fund** ....................oops winter fuel payment! The winter fuel payment was introduced back in 1997 to help those over 60 manage their energy bills and cope with the winter temperatures. Last year those payments amounted to circa. £14million to those living outside the UK.

Phoenix Energy Support Armed Forces Day

2010-06-25T08:13:00.001-07:00

Phoenix Energy are proud to announce our support for Britain's Armed Forces and for Armed Forces Day 26th June 2010.

http://www.armedforcesday.org.uk/

To show our support for our servicemen (and women) ansd veterans we have agreed a deal for qualifying armed forces personnel, reservists, veterans and emergency services

For all new energy customers signing up to same money through GET ME CHEAP BILLS .COM using the Forces Discount Website,

http://www.forcesdiscounts-mod.co.uk/

Phoenix Energy will donate £20 to The Royal British Legion.

"The discounts and benefits provided in the Defence Discount Directory and web site are aimed at the Defence Community in its widest sense. Regulars, Reserves, Veterans, Cadets, MOD Civil Servants and families together make up a group of over 10 million people."
Vice Admiral Peter Wilkinson, Deputy Chief of Defence Staff (Personnel)

Phoenix Energy hope to make a substantial donation to the Royal British Legion and look forward to supporting this excellent cause.

http://www.britishlegion.org.uk/

Ovo Energy to Pay Interest on Account Credits

2010-06-23T10:34:00.000-07:00

New market entrant Ovo Energy is to pay interest to customers whose accounts are in credit. From July this year, the firm will offer 3 per cent to customers in the form of a credit.

Founder Stephen Fitzpatrick told Utility Week that the company now has 30,000 customers, with 12,000 switching in April and May this year alone. He said turnover is around £36 million and that the firm "is not operating a loss leader strategy".

Fitzpatrick added that the bulk of Ovo customers were on its 'new energy' tariff, of which green energy makes up 15 per cent.

The company also plans to start rolling out smart meters by the end of the year.

A very interesting development - we will be watching closely to see if any of the leading suppliers foolow suit and this becomes widespread amongst the industry

Npower - 'Footy Saver' Tariff

2010-06-17T10:23:00.000-07:00

npower has today launched a new tariff called 'Football Saver'.

Football Saver provides customers with a gaurantee that their prices will be 7% lower than standard npower prices until at least 30th September 2011.

The tariff is only available to new customers who either take gas and electricity or electricity only (if they simply do not have mains gas).

There are no early termination fees associated with this tariff so customers can leave without penalty at all times.

£50 welcome bonus from Sainsbury's Energy

2010-06-03T12:38:00.000-07:00

With immediate affect all customers signing up to Sainsbury's Energy Online S@ver Version 6 will be entitled to a £50 welcome bonus. The Welcome Bonus of £50 will be credited to the customer’s electricity account within 90 days of becoming a customer of Sainsbury’s Energy on the Online S@ver v6 tariff.

New offers on my ...website

Testimonials and Recommendations

2010-04-11T12:33:00.001-07:00

At Phoenix Energy we pride ourselves on our professional services and attention to detail. We belief very strongly in that only by offering the highest standards of customer services, can we differentiate ourselves from our competitors. We strive to offer a personal service and to 'go the extra mile' to ensure that we exceed our customers expectations.

Below are some of the recommendations and testimonials given to Phoenix Energy by our customers.

“John is a dedicated, professional, wholly independent utilities broker with many years experience in the industry. He works tirelessly to ensure his clients have the right tariff for their needs, not his. I've seen direct evidence of the savings John has made to both private and corporate clients, which can run into thousands of pounds a year. John also provides a full bespoke service to building companies in sourcing direct supply of not only utilities but resolves the time-consuming supply of meters and connections. An excellent service, supported by a very deep knowledge of his industry. I have no hesitation whatsoever in recommending John Lewins of Phoenix Energy”

MK - Entrepreneur and networking professional

“I write this to recommend John & Phoenix Energy to you. John has an incredible passion for his business and a knowledge of the Energy Supply market that I doubt is second to none. His attention to detail is exemplary and will work tirelessly to resolve any problem you may have. Unlike many in this field, John is honest and upfront about any savings he thinks he an help you achieve - forget about using any other comparison website in my humble opinion there can be only one that you must visit and that is www.getmecheapbills.com, if you do only one thing today to help you increase your bottom line profits or reduce your energy bills at home then this is an absolute must. If you want to get an advantage over your competitors reducing your overheads is a must and phoenix Energy can help you achieve this, if you don't I am sure your competition WILL! Good luck for the future Phoenix Energy.”

JA - Company Director

“I can always rely on John for impartial and professional advice, as well as for getting the cheapest utility tariff deals”

SA - Company Director

"John has provided a service to my business in order to make substantial savings on my utility bills. John's personal service is excellent and his honesty is commendable. Where savings have not been achievable John has simply turned away the business in favour of the business remaining with its original supplier for value for money.
I would recooned any business or householder to have a discussion with John in order to take advantage of his services and to help reduce their utility bills"

LC - Business owner

"Dear John
I wanted to let you know how much I was able to save on my home utility bills by using your Phoenix Energy wbsite - getmecheapbills.com.
My domestic dual fuel bill for 2009 was £2130. My forthcoming bill for 2010 will be in the region of £1605 with the same usage.
I was staggered to find I could make a saving of £524 by simply swapping my supplier from Scottish Power to EDF Energy.
The contract incurs no fixed term, drawn out and complicated terms and conditions, and is with an established supplier on Online Saver Version 5 tariff.
On this basis, I will be personally recommending your website to my clients and anyone I hear complaining about expensive utility bills."

SC - Business owner

"I recently had the pleasure of transferring my electricity supplies from NPower and my gas supplies from British Gas.
I emailed John the meter readings and account numbers and he dealt with the switchthe same day. I have recieved confirmations that the account have been switched and it looks like I am set to save amost 25% on my annual bills.
I would not hestitate to recommend John Lewins and Phoenix Energy to any of my friends, colleagues and clients"

JP-F Solicitor

"Phoenix utilities saved us 25% on our electricity bill and have saved our clients many thousands of pounds on their bills, I would have no hesitation in recommending Phoenix Energy"

MJ Accountants

"Organising utility supplies at our developments can be very complicated and time consuming, Phoenix Energy take all these hassles away from us and allow us to concentrate on more constructive work... Building Houses!".

PD Builder

"As a landlord I regularly encountered problems changing tenant details with the utility companies, particularly when a previous tenant had already left the property. Phoenix Energy take all the hassle away! I use them for all my properties"

JB, Mortgage Broker and Private Landlord.

Free Energy Monitors for Business Energy Customers

2010-01-31T10:01:00.001-08:00

To celebrate the 10th anniversary of Phoenix Energy director John Lewins’s involvement in the energy industry, Phoenix Energy are running a promotion to increase business environmental awareness and to reduce the energy usage of its customers.

For every new business energy customer, signing a contract through Phoenix Energy, we will give away a FREE Eco-Eye Elite energy monitor.

The Eco-Eye constantly monitors the amount of electricity coming into a business and clearly displays the energy usage in either Kilowatts or in cost and is a visual reminder to think about how much power a business is using. Using an energy monitor helps identify wastage and encourages businesses to make changes which will reduce carbon footprint, making a real difference to electricity bills as well as the environment. The average energy reduction of businesses using this type of monitor is 15%

Eco-eye monitors retails for approximately £50 so we believe this is a tremendous offer, particularly since using Phoenix Energy to organise your energy contracts will also usually give an average cost saving of 25%
Details of our monitors can be found at

http://www.eco-eye.com/

Customers who have taken advantage of our offer include

Cleveland Disabled Supplies of Middlesbrough - who supply specialist equipment for disabled markets and are keen to reduce their energy usage and to increase their environmental awareness. Phoenix Energy assisted them by reducing their electricity tariff from 14.7p to 8.7p upon renewal.

Cleveland Disabled Supplies are members of Tees Valley Business Club.

Director Arthur Ward

http://www.disabledsupplies.co.uk/

Another customer is BackBeat Music of Regency West Mall in Stockton. Backbeat are a supplier of musical instruments. Backbeat have recently relocated and Phoenix Energy specialise in providing energy advice for businesses taking on new premises.

http://www.backbeatmusic-stockton.co.uk/

Phoenix Energy will be running this promotion throughout February and March.

Recent Developments in Domestic Energy Markets

2010-01-17T08:04:00.000-08:00

Thousands of EDF Energy customers face higher bills after the power giant overhauled some of its domestic products last week, despite Britain’s coldest winter for 30 years.

Some consumers could be almost £170 a year worse off unless they switch — £45 due to higher prices and £122 because they already pay more than new customers who take out EDF’s cheapest online tariff, Online Saver 5.

Eon and Scottish Power, in contrast, cut rates on some tariffs last week while First Utility launched a cheaper deal.

One EDF customer, writing on a consumer forum, said: “It’s interesting how [EDF] waited for the maximum use of gas to raise the price. The new tariff would increase our bill by 14% overall.”

About 165,000 dual-fuel direct debit customers on five of EDF’s online tariffs were moved to more expensive plans last Friday. Those on the Online Version 3 tariff already pay £122 more than on Online Saver 5. They will pay another £45 on the standard tariff, so are a total of £167 worse off.

EDF said: “We recently changed some online products to simplify our tariff structure. This will affect less than 3% of our customers. No customers are obliged to pay higher prices and could reduce their energy bills by switching. We have written to all the customers affected.”

This is an unusual move, given wholesale prices have been trending lower. It could signal tariffs will gradually start rising.

Ofgem, the energy watchdog, has told firms to cut prices this year and experts said they are finding clever ways to make up margins — just as the banks did.

Energy companies are becoming more like banks. They bring out new products that supersede the others and many customers remain blissfully unaware that there is a cheaper one out there.

We investigate four tricks of the trade.

HISTORIC TARIFFS

Energy firms regularly roll out cheaper tariffs to attract new custom — there were 13 launches or relaunches of energy deals in October, for example. However, in the same way as EDF, many also operate several so-called historic tariffs, which are no longer available to new customers.

For example, Npower has launched 14 versions of its online tariff since February 2006. Those on earlier tariffs are paying up to £1,136, compared with £907 on today’s version — Sign Online Version 17.

Energy prices have, in general, been falling but instead of cutting prices for all customers, firms launch lower tariffs only for new business. Firms generally fail to tell existing customers they could switch.

“The advice to consumers is not to rest on your laurels. You should check your online plan once a year and compare it with other offers to ensure you are getting the cheapest deal with that provider.”

EXIT FEES

Since 2008 energy firms have charged exit penalties for consumers who ditch their fixed-rate deals early. British Gas, for example, levies a £70 fee if you leave its dual-fuel fix before January 30, 2012. However, experts said the practice is rapidly spreading to other products.

For example, Npower’s Sign Online Version 17 is the cheapest online variable deal and includes a guarantee to be two percentage points cheaper than the firm’s standard variable prices until March 31, 2011. If you choose to leave before this date — or even to move between Npower tariffs — you will incur a £40 exit fee.

Scottish Power has a penalty of £50 on its guaranteed deals, while British Gas charges £60 for early exits from its variable Websaver 5.

“This is a relatively new phenomenon. They are, in part, a compensation for the price promise but only British Gas offers any meaningful guarantee of staying lower than standard rates.”

He would still recommend the Npower deal, even with the penalty, because it is the cheapest on the market — but be aware you will have to stick with the deal.

AUTOMATIC UPGRADES

Many suppliers upgrade customers on capped tariffs to a new capped deal automatically, which can be more expensive than a standard plan. For example, Scottish Power came under fire last September for moving customers on its then market-leading fixed-price deal, costing an average £1,037, to its more expensive capped deal at £1,156 unless consumers actively switched.

“Many providers don’t tell comparison sites about these new capped tariffs — they will simply write to the consumer to tell them it is the best deal for them. This makes it difficult for people to shop around. You should always be able to find your existing tariff on a price comparison site. If you can’t then you should move somewhere else."

MARGINS

In December Ofgem told suppliers to cut their bills as it emerged that profit margins were at their highest for five years. Dualfuel bills fell by only 6% in 2009 to £1,235 — despite a 50% drop in wholesale gas and electricity prices. Alistair Buchanan, Ofgem chief executive, said: “Consumers are not yet losers on the wholesale gap but will be by spring if things don’t change.”

Prospects for price cuts were slim, so grab a good deal while you can.

Our online comparison site - GET ME CHEAP BILLS.COM lists all of the above tariffs and all other tariffs available in England, Scotland and Wales.

http://www.getmecheapbills.com

Get Me Cheap Bills . Com

2009-11-29T12:21:00.000-08:00

Get Me Cheap Bills . Com is our independent price comparison site.

The site is 100% independent and impartial - it lists all domestic energy deals currently available in Great Britain. It is updated daily with with all the latest deals.

The following are recent changes to the site.

EDF Energy has today removed the following tariffs from the market:

Online Energy Version 5

Online S@ver Version 2

at the same time they have launched Online S@ver Version 3 and for the first time they have launched a gas only version.

The new tariff is very competitive and from a gas perspective places EDF at the number one spot in all 14 areas across the UK, taking them into the same position as British Gas and OVO Energy - who together hold the number one spots for electricity and dual fuel for most areas.

Online S@ver Version 3 has been designed to be very competitive rates at time of sign-up, and a minimum 2% discount off EDF Energy Standard prices guaranteed until the end of December 2010.

Customers joining the tariff who do subsequently leave before the end of the December 2010 will be subject to early termination fees of £25 per fuel.

E,ON Energy has today launched FixOnline v4.

Key features and benefits of FixOnlibe v4 are:

* Limited availability

* Fixed term contract until 1st February 2011 discounts will be given until this date

* Available to dual fuel and single electricity customers (single electricity product is not available with other E.ON gas products)

* Customer must manage their account online to receive their full discount

* Customer must pay by monthly Direct Debit

* No Tesco Clubcard Points

* Exit fees applicable if customer leaves before the end date of 1st February 2011 - £30 duel fuel, £10 single electricity

* IGT charges applicable

* No Mains Gas applicable for customers without gas in their homes

With its 15 month fixed price and extremely competitive price this tariff immediately gains the position of being the cheapest dual fuel fixed price tariff on the market today for the standard customer**

npower has today launched two new tariff, Go Fix and Go Fix XL.

Both tariffs are fixed price tariffs where customers will enjoy a fixed price for their energy until 31st December 2010. Neither tariff has an early termination fee.

Both are online tariffs where the customer must be happy to manage their energy accounts online and also pay by monthly direct debit.

Go Fix is available as a gas only, electricity only or dual fuel tariffs and is available to both new and existing customers.

Go Fix XL on the other hand is only available as a dual fuel tariff to new customers.

At the same time as this launch npower removed from sale its two flagship products 'Sign Online' and 'Web 16'. These two new products are designed to be replacements.

In terms of price this is by no means the most competitive tariff on the market but with a capped rate until 31st December 2010, coupled with no early termination charges it is certainly one to watch!"

We have another blog - GET ME CHEAP BILLS.COM which will list all of the updates and changes in the domestic energy markets Why not log on and check out your own energy needs.

http://comparetheenergy.blogspot.com/

Fear of steep energy bill rises

2009-10-10T03:49:00.000-07:00

Fear of steep energy bill rises

Ofgem chief executive Alistair Buchanan: "Prices are looking to go upwards"
Domestic UK energy bills could rise by 60% by 2016 in a worst-case scenario identified by the energy regulator.

However, most other estimates outlined in the Ofgem report would see prices rise between 14% and 25% above inflation by 2020.

The review also said that up to £200bn of investment was needed to secure supplies and to meet carbon targets.

Volatile gas markets and power stations nearing the end of their use were the chief concerns, the regulator said.

Possibilities

The report was the result of Project Discovery, a scheme that Ofgem started in March, in which it outlines four possible scenarios for energy use and security in the next 10 to 15 years.

OFGEM SCENARIOS FOR PREDICTED RISES IN ENERGY BILLS

Dash for energy: Global economies bounce back, but there are concerns over security. Environmental targets are missed and no new nuclear plant is operational before 2020. Competition between countries for energy resources results in tight gas supplies and high fuel prices. Domestic energy bills rise by 60% by 2016 before falling back.

Slow growth: There is low investment in gas and electricity infrastructure during the recession. Low gas and electricity prices, coupled with low carbon prices, reduce incentives to build nuclear and renewable power plant. Dependence on imported gas eventually increases consumers' bills by 22% by 2020.

Green transition: Rapid economic recovery and significant expansion in green measures lower gas demand, but increase electricity demand for electric vehicles and heat pumps. Domestic energy bills rise by 23% by 2020.

Green stimulus: During a slow economic recovery, governments support stimulus packages targeting environmental goals. Consumers energy bills rise 14% by 2020.

The report pointed out the need for investment at a time of volatile world energy prices and Britain's increasing dependence on gas imports.

This exposure meant that supply disruptions across the world could affect prices. The scenario in which prices could spike by 60% was that of a strong resurgence in global economies, along with missed renewable and carbon targets, and no nuclear facility built before 2020.

Ofgem figures show that the average annual household gas bill rose by 120% from September 2000 (£365) to September 2009 (£804). Over the same period, the average annual household electricity bill went up by 48% from £299 to £443.

The report said the cheapest future scenario - with an increase in bills of 14% by 2020 - factored in a slow recovery from the recession, coupled with global green stimulus packages. In this option, high carbon prices and government policies would support investment in renewables, nuclear and carbon capture and storage.

But significant changes were needed in the way energy was generated and consumed, the report added.

"These are big challenges. Consumers are already enduring high energy prices," said Ofgem chief executive Alistair Buchanan.
"This is why we are consulting with consumer and environmental groups, the academic community and industry to ensure any policy proposals we make are grounded on the best evidence available. Early action can avoid hasty and expensive measures later."

The costs of lighting is set to rise, the energy regulator says

The report said that recent events such as the Russia-Ukraine gas crisis had raised concerns about the security and price of gas supplies, given that many European countries were becoming increasingly dependent on imports.
It said that the retirement of older nuclear plants and closure of coal and oil plants in the UK by the end of 2015 could "pose a threat to security of supply".
Double the recent level of investment was needed, the report suggested.
Emissions

Mr Buchanan said that the good news in the report was that emissions would fall by up to 43% from 2005 levels, describing the climate change targets as "very, very tight".
The report came as the UK was facing the effects of the financial crisis, an acceptance that it was "no longer an energy island" and that it would see a revolution in the approach of power generation, he added.
The report said that gas and electricity supplies this winter were likely to be adequate, with a substantial reserve margin in electricity.
Mr Buchanan said there could never be a guarantee that the lights would stay on, but by looking ahead, the industry could be prepared for the changes needed and consumers would not pay for these changes being made too late.
David Porter, chief executive of the Association of Electricity Producers, said that the Ofgem report showed that the government needed to ensure the UK was an attractive prospect for investors. The billions of pounds needed for investment in energy would come from the global markets.
He said it remained to be seen how much extra people would pay on their bills.
'More vulnerable'
Garry Felgate, chief executive of the Energy Retail Association, said: "Energy suppliers face the challenge of meeting our future energy needs and reducing carbon emissions, all at an affordable cost to customers.

Consumer group Which? called for more urgent action from the government.
"The way consecutive governments have passed the buck on this issue is tantamount to negligence. By ignoring security of supply for so long, they've saddled consumers with what could be a colossal bill," said the group's energy campaigner Dr Fiona Cochrane.

"It's good that Ofgem has finally looked at this issue but what is needed now is quick and decisive action to ensure that consumers have safe, secure and affordable energy."
The Ofgem report is now going to consultation, with responses required by 20 November.

article courtesy of BBC

Phoenix Energy have a range of different energy products, from across the energy market and can make significant savings in energy costs now and offer guarenteed fixed prices for the future. Businesses can more accurately forecast futue energy costs.

http://phoenixenergy.co.uk/

Click for more information or call 0800 48 64 60 for a free no-obligation quotation.

Energy Bill ' unlikely to fall'

2009-09-19T08:08:00.000-07:00

Energy bills 'unlikely to fall'

Energy firms have rejected calls for swift price cuts

The big six energy suppliers have told the regulator Ofgem that there is little chance of any further cuts in their tariffs this coming year.

They were responding to calls from Ofgem for them to pass on more of the recent falls in wholesale energy costs.
However, while Ofgem had requested that the companies do so, it has no power to enforce any tariff cuts.
Peter Luff MP, chairman of the Business and Enterprise Committee, said energy markets were "not working properly".
Ofgem estimates lower costs will boost suppliers' gross profit on each duel-fuel customer by £60 this year.
The firms say other costs which make up 40% of bills are rising steeply.

Consumer Focus said the industry's responses were a "chorus of excuse and self-justification".
"In spite of increased margins and lower wholesale gas prices, there is the inevitable talk of higher domestic bills," said Robert Hammond of Consumer Focus.

Response

In August, Ofgem wrote to the chief executives of each of the big six energy firms, urging them to "respond" to falling wholesale prices as some poorer customers would be suffering hardship from high prices during the winter.

Depending on how good suppliers were at buying their energy in advance, the regulator says their wholesale electricity costs have fallen in the past six months by more than £7 per megawat hour, equivalent to £29 per customer's annual bill.

My committee warned the government and Ofgem last year that the energy markets were not working properly... this is further compelling evidence that that is the case
Peter Luff MP, chairman of the Business and Enterprise Committee

Meanwhile gas wholesale costs to the energy companies have dropped by an average of 10p per therm, or £59 for each customer's bill.

A spokesman for Ofgem stressed that the regulator did not have the power to force energy firms to trim prices, and instead that it could only act against energy companies if it finds evidence that they have acted anti-competitively.

He added that while Ofgem wanted the energy firms to trim their bills, there was no suggestion that the current high prices suggested anti-competitive behaviour.
However, Mr Luff, whose Commons committee studies the UK's energy market, said: "Ofgem can't stand by and watch customers pay excessive prices.
"My committee warned the government and Ofgem last year that the energy markets were not working properly... this is further compelling evidence that that is the case."

No cuts likely

The big six firms were united in rejecting the suggestion they should agree now to cut tariffs in the coming months.
Hugh Pym, BBC chief economics correspondent

Ofgem has made clear it has found no evidence of anti-competitive behaviour by the energy firms.

So effectively all it can do is bring the high prices to the attention of the public.
In essence, Ofgem is trying to shame the companies, but so far the firms are insistent there will be no price cuts, and in fact some have warned that prices may have to rise.
If Ofgem is to have the power to force energy firms to cut their bills, it is up to the government to give that to the regulator.

Some even hinted that customers' tariffs might be higher in a year's time.
British Gas - "Prices [are] likely to remain at historically high levels, and in fact likely to increase as non-commodity costs rise ever upwards."

EDF Energy - "We would of course be prepared to reduce tariffs if market conditions allow."

E.ON - "[We] do not believe there is a clear message regarding future wholesale costs movements that can be communicated to customers."

RWE - "A retail price commentary cannot be based only on a narrow view of wholesale costs and in any event wholesale costs need to be weighed against increases in other costs."

Scottish and Southern Energy - "With forward annual wholesale prices significantly higher, and with upward pressures in terms of distribution, environmental and social costs, seeking to avoid an increase between now and the end of 2010 is an important goal."

Scottish Power - "There are no immediate signals that would indicate a fall in retail prices for this winter, and risks of an increase next year."

Falling costs, higher profits

The regulator's previous two quarterly reports on the relationship between wholesale and retail prices found that there was no evidence that suppliers had failed to drop prices when costs fell.
If retail prices do not change, these lower cost will be reflected in higher gross margin
Ofgem

However, its third quarterly analysis suggests there is now scope for the firms to do so.
Ofgem estimates that the gross profit of each of the big six firms for the next year will amount to an average of £170 per dual-fuel customer.
That compares to an average gross profit of £110 over the past three years.
Looking ahead by 12 months, Ofgem estimates that the wholesale cost of electricity will fall by around £25 per customer and that of gas by around £40.
"If retail prices do not change, these lower cost will be reflected in higher gross margin," Ofgem says.

Volatile costs

The gross margin made by energy firms has to cover their every-day running costs, such as paying staff and selling their services, and so does not automatically translate into profits either for further investment or dividends for shareholders.

Ofgem acknowledged that energy firms also have other important costs which push up domestic and industrial bills.

Among them are the cost of subsidised "social tariffs" for poorer customers, and the cost of dealing with the bad debts of those customers who cannot pay their bills.
The bills that customers do eventually pay are also heavily boosted by the cost of paying for the transportation and distribution of gas and electricity around the national networks, and the cost of meeting the government's environmental obligations.
These cannot be controlled by the energy suppliers and are passed straight on to the consumer.
Overall, these extra costs now make up £360 of the average annual dual-fuel bill, compared to the £597 wholesale cost of the fuel itself.

Ofgem also noted that firms may start to face higher wholesale energy costs in the spring of next year.
The firms argue that there will always be a lag between wholesale price movements and customer tariffs.
"Prices are very volatile," said Andrew Horstead of energy consultants Utilyx.
"If they were fed through immediately consumer bills would naturally be very volatile," he added.

Article courtesy of BBC

Energyman response - All customers to shop around to obtain the best possible deal.
Domestic customers should use our domestic price comparison site http://getmecheapbills.com

There have been recent changes to the comparison site and the introduction of some excellent new tariffs from OVO and First Utility, together with British Gas making their cheapest tariff available to more customers.

Business customers should phone 0800 458 6460

information for Letting Agents

2009-08-15T11:31:00.000-07:00

One of the core activitities of Phoenix Energy is our 'VOID MANAGEMENT SCHEME'

This is designed to help landlords / letting / estate agents / councils and asylum providers. - basically anyone managing multiple domestic properties. We have successfully run this scheme for a number of years and we can now compliment this scheme with our domestic comarison site GET ME CHEAP BILLS .COM http://getmecheapbills.com/

By using a combination of these schemes we can guarentee superior levels of customers service and can also guarentee to source the cheaper rates in the country.

All letting agents / landlords entering into an agreement with Phoenix Energy, and using either, or both, of our schemes, will also recieve a commision for all property registered into our schemes.

We have over 3000 properties registered into our schemes and work with letting agents ranging from Aylesbury to Aberdeen.
< Any letting agent who wishes a joint venture with Phoenix Energy, should contact us on 0800458 6460 or visit http://phoenixenergy.co.uk/lettings.html

or send us an email with your details.

Going the Extra Mile (or 5000!)

2009-07-20T12:40:00.000-07:00

As a bit of fun I have attached some 'holiday snaps' showing examples of water and electricity infrastructure in Thailand / Malaysia. I personally feel a bit uncomfortable with electricity meters nailed to a lamp post, especially during monsoon!

I am not a big fan of overhead electricity network -bit of an eyesore

Especially during monsoon season

Doesn't look in great condition

Never seen this in England!- 4 electricity meters on a lamp post

Water meter Thailand style -bit of a trip hazard!

Water meters KL - I don't think Health and Safety would be too impressed

New Domestic Energy Comparison Site

2009-05-02T11:22:00.000-07:00

Phoenix Energy are pleased to announce that our new domestic energy price comparison site is fully up and running.

The site is called GET ME CHEAP BILLS . COM

and it can be accessed either through the billing section of the regular website

http://www.phoenixenergy.co.uk/billing.html

or by going direct to the site via http://getmecheapbills.com/

The site is 100% impartial and independent, and lists all of the domestic energy deals available in Great Britain.

It is possible to sign up online or if you wish to speak to a 'real person' by phoning 0800 849 70 77 and quoting Phoenix.

Please check it out and see how much you could save on your own energy bills - you could get a happy surprise.

New Development - Titan House Hartlepool

2009-04-26T11:17:00.000-07:00

Phoenix energy are proud to announce the completion (of our part) of the redevelopment of Titan House, Hartlepool.

Titan House, a former social services building once owned by Cleveland County Council, was one of five key buildings earmarked by Hartlepool's New Deal for Communities (NDC) as part of an overall strategy to bring empty buildings back into use.The building has also appeared in the Mail's Spot the Grots campaign and was on Hartlepool Mayor Stuart Drummond's hit list of buildings needing action.

For full information regarding this development please follow the links below

http://www.hartlepoolmail.co.uk/plot-the-grots/Big-plans-for-Titan-House.4093182.jp

http://www.hartlepoolmail.co.uk/latest-news/1215pm-Former-grot-spot-building.5140210.jp

http://www.investinhartlepool.com/pdfs/HE_19.pdf

We have recently organised the installation of 50 meters for the conversion of this previously unused building - 49 economy 7 meters for the individual flats and a 3 phase commercial meter for the landlord supply.

Photographs showing the installation of the metering are shown below.

Phoenix Energy wish every success to Montague Estates for this development and look forward to working with Montegue Estates again in the future.

'Unfair' Energy Bill Ban Proposed

2009-03-23T11:59:00.000-07:00

From the BBC -

Chief Executive of Ofgem, Alistair Buchanan, said he was determined to stamp out bad practices
Energy companies will be banned from charging "unjustified" prices under new rules proposed by the regulator Ofgem.
Prices for different payment methods, such as pre-payment meters, will have to reflect costs to the supplier.
Ofgem started the investigation into the state of the energy market in the UK in February 2008.
An industry body has welcomed the latest move, claiming that £300m has already been cut from pre-payment and electricity-only tariffs.
'Emphatic move'
In its initial findings in October, Ofgem said that there was no evidence of collusion between the "big six" suppliers in setting prices and the market was "working well" for most consumers.
This is an emphatic move by Ofgem to clear the decks of obstacles that prevent consumers from getting access to the best offers
Alistair Buchanan, Ofgem
But it raised concerns over the difference in prices for those paying in different ways, and deals for those with no gas supply.
About 12% of households pay one fuel bill on a pre-payment meter, although this increases to 37% of those in social housing, it said.
In 2005, they paid £80 more, on average, than direct debit customers. By the beginning of 2008, this had risen to £125, but this has since dropped back. Ofgem said in October that the cost of servicing a pre-payment meter is £85 a year.
It also said that those paying by cash or cheque each quarter paid £80 more a year than those on direct debit, up from £40 at the start of 2005.

Under the proposed rules:

Different payment methods will have to reflect the cost to the supplier of offering those methods
Energy companies must provide an annual statement to customers providing details such as the tariff, consumption and a reminder of the customer's right to switch
An at-a-glance price scorecard on bills to make it easier for consumers to switch
Small businesses to be given clear contracts with no automatic rollover when the agreement ended
Written quotes on doorstep sales.

"This is an emphatic move by Ofgem to clear the decks of obstacles that prevent consumers from getting access to the best offers," said chief executive Alistair Buchanan.
The new conditions would give Ofgem the power to fine companies that could not prove price differences were justified.
The regulator will publish a draft of the new licensing condition next month and consult with energy suppliers, with the aim to implement them by the autumn. The new rule would be in place for three years before being reviewed.
If they cannot agree, Ofgem said it retains the right to refer the matter to the Competition Commission.

Price cuts

Ofgem announced last year that it would be conducting a quarterly review of the link between wholesale prices and domestic bills.
Price cuts in 2009
British Gas: gas prices down 10% on 19 February
Scottish and Southern: electricity tariffs down 9% and gas down 4% on 30 March
Scottish Power: gas prices down 7.5%, electricity down 3% on 31 March
EDF Energy: electricity down 8.8% in some areas on 31 March
E.On: electricity tariffs down 9% on 31 March
Npower: electricity prices down 8% on 31 March

Battling bills - what help is there?
It first concluded that there was no evidence that suppliers passed on increasing wholesale costs to customers, but then failed to drop prices when costs fell.
At the end of the month, five major energy suppliers will cut some energy prices for UK households, following the move of British Gas in February.
The British gas and electricity markets were opened to competition 10 years ago and price controls were removed six years ago.
Six suppliers now dominate the market - Npower, EDF, British Gas, Scottish Power, Scottish and Southern Energy, and E.On.
Garry Felgate, chief executive of the Energy Retail Association, which represents the energy companies, said: "Energy suppliers have already taken significant action following the original probe findings, including reducing their tariffs on pre-payment and electricity-only tariffs by £300m.
"The regulator has stated on many occasions that we have the most competitive market in the world, with 100,000 people switching each week.
"Any measures which support competition in the market can only be good news for consumers, and now that all suppliers have reduced their prices, I would encourage customers to shop around to see if they are on the best tariff for their home."
But Bob Wilson, assistant director at the National Housing Federation, said the report was a missed opportunity to assist poorer householders.
"This makes a mockery of Ofgem's claims that it wants to protect vulnerable customers. Energy companies should absorb the extra costs of maintaining meters rather than passing them on to their poorest customers," he said.
"Pre-payment customers should not pay a penny more than people who pay their bills quarterly and should no longer be discriminated against."

Phoenix Energy welcome this bill - particularly the grossful unfair practice of 'rolling over' business energy customers at the end of their contracts and further contracting customers without their permission or approval.

New Building Conversion

2009-03-04T11:15:00.001-08:00

Phoenix Energy have recently undertaken to work on behalf of a Hartlepool developer to manage the utility supply and metering aspects of their new building conversion on Durham Road, Hartlepool. The direlict site of the ex United Reform Church and Sunday School are to be converted into 10 luxury appartments.

The building is direlict, as can be seen in the attached photos and presents a number of difficulties in terms of provision of utility supply.

Listed Building

Gas supply required - this is difficult in multi - story flats

Engineering difficulties - level differences as shown in photos

Access to flats via 'bridges'

Basement flats causing building to be set back from road

We have recently started the development and are in process of obtaining quotations from NEDL / United Utilities and Hartlepool Water. Please revisit this blog later (ie 6 months!) for an update and to view finished development.

This is an example of the work we do - Phoenix Energy specialise in providing expert utility advice to builders. We take the hassle out of dealing with utility providers and allo our clients to get on with earning money.

Please visit our website http://www.phoenixenergy.co.uk/connections.html

Domestic Price Cuts

2009-02-23T11:59:00.000-08:00

At Phoenix Energy we specialise in business electricity and getting the best possible prices for our customers. In recent times 4 energy suppliers have reduced their rates for domestic customers. Am I being cynical but is it a coincidence that all of the suppliers have reduced rates by the same amount - the 'heirachy' of prices thus will hardly change!

Visit our website for details of our services to business customers and watch this space for details of our new energy comparison site for domestic customers.

http://www.phoenixenergy.co.uk/billing.html

The following artical is courtesy of the BBC

EDF Energy cuts electricity bills

EDF is the second energy provider this week to cut electricity, but not gas bills
EDF Energy has announced it is cutting bills by an average of 8.8% for most of its electricity customers.
Gas tariffs will remain unchanged, EDF Energy said, arguing its prices were still competitive.
The reduction in electricity bills will come into effect on 31 March and will affect 2.3 million of the firm's customers.
E.On cut its electricity bills by 9% on average on Thursday. It also decided to keep gas prices unchanged.
"These reductions will apply in London, South East, South West, Wales and Scotland, benefiting the vast majority of our standard rate customers across the country," EDF said in a statement.
"In other regions, EDF Energy is already offering some of the lowest tariffs on the market".
'Volatile wholesale prices'
Apart from EDF and E.On, competitors British Gas and Scottish & Southern Energy have also announced price cuts.
British Gas is to cut its gas prices by 10%, effective from 19 February while Scottish & Southern will cut the price of electricity by 9% and gas by 4% from 30 March.
The cost of wholesale gas is linked to the price of oil, which has fallen significantly from the peak it reached in summer 2008.
"Although wholesale prices have fallen recently, the market remains volatile. As a result, the outlook for retail prices is still challenging," EDF said.
"Forward annual wholesale prices for electricity and gas remain at relatively high levels."

Networking

2009-02-22T13:05:00.000-08:00

At Phoenix Energy we are passionate about networking and passionate about business.

We believe that in these hard and troubled times that small businesses should actively help each other and by sticking together that we will survive the current recession.

Much of our business comes from word-of-mouth referals from existing customers and from networking partners. We strongly believe in building business relationships and are members of local and national networking and business support organisations. Our advice is free and we are also quite happy to direct customers to other help and support organisations. We particularly enjoy talking to new or start up businesses.

We strongly believe in helping local business ,both within our own areas of expertise and through referals to trusted experts in different areas of business.

We are members of the following organisations and believe that 'if we can't help, we know someone who can!'

http://www.surteesbni.co.uk/

http://www.durhambusinessclub.co.uk/

http://www.sunderlandbusinessnetwork.co.uk/

http://www.enterprising-hartlepool.net/

http://www.networknorth.org.uk/index.html

We would be very happy to make introductions to the groups shown above and to any of our business associates.

If you need any introductions please contact us http://phoenixenergy.co.uk/contactus.html and we will assist.

Services for Builders / Property Developers

2009-01-18T03:59:00.001-08:00

Dealing with utility providers and organising new supplies and meters, can be a very difficult and time consuming process. Phonix Energy specialise in helping to facilitate this process.

We can organise Electricity / Gas / Water / Telecom / Sewerage supplies and the appropriate metering and registrations.

Phoenix Energy offer a range of services designed to help builders. We can handle any scale of building project, from a single house to a whole industrial estate..........and everything in between! We work with the developer and with your staff and can offer as much or as little assistance as required by the skills and time constraints of your staff.

We work on new builds and also conversions / reburbishments

Our services include:

Requesting and filling out the appropriate application forms

Liasing with utility providers

Handling of all correspondence / written verbal / electronic

Site visits
Organisation of quotations and payments
Processing of applications

Dealing with contractors

Organising supply work

Organising metering
Registration of meters to developers / owners / tenants as applicable

Each of these stages can cause problems and delays - our management of the process and swift intervention can greatly simplify the development.

A typical small developement can easily take a minimum of 2 months from application to metering and a larger or more complex developement may take many months or even years! We offer a fixed price for our services and by using us we will save you time and money.

We sort out the provision of utilities from start to finish ..............all our clients need to do is sign the cheques!

Please check out our website for more details

http://phoenixenergy.co.uk/connections.html

Examples of recent jobs include

New industrial estate - Self storage warehouse, vetinary hospital, motor dealership - utility provision for future developement - electricity supply, gas supply, water supply - (our largest job todate)

New garage developement - new electricity / gas / water supplies and metering

New housing developement - 18 elec meters , 18 gas meters

15 new build flats - water and electrcity supplies and metering

Nursing Home - Conversion into 9 flats - 9 electricity and water supplies and metering

Department Store - conversion into 50 flats - 51 new electricity
meters

Temple - conversion to 23 flats - 25 electrcity meters

2 new build shops - electricity supplies and meters

Commercial electricity supply and meter

Commercial gas supply and meter

Commercial 3 phase upgrade

Domestic gas meter move (our smallest job)

Void Management Scheme for Landlords / Letting Agents

2008-12-03T14:54:00.000-08:00

One of the core activities of Phoenix Energy is our 'Void Management Scheme.' This is designed to help landlords / letting / estate agents / councils and asylum providers. - basically anyone managing multiple domestic properties.

Dealing with energy companies can be difficult and time-consuming and the passing of information regarding other people is often met by a wall of 'data protection' rules.
The void management scheme is designed to facilitate the registration of energy accounts and to take hassles away from the staff of the letting agents. (time could be then spent on more productive work!)

All information is passed to a designated account manager and is acknowledged. We will complete the registration of your tenants through the managed housing department of one of the major suppliers. We guarentee that the rates will be amongst the best available for dual fuel in all areas of the UK. (We deal with agencies ranging from Newcasle to Swindon and Chester to Hull!)

Please see

http://phoenixenergy.co.uk/lettings.html

for more details - or phone 0800 458 64 60.

Examples of typical properties we deal with are shown below.

Urban Lofts

City appartments

New build houses

Student flats /HMO

Terraced houses

Another One Bites The Dust!

2008-11-06T14:43:00.000-08:00

Concern about the future of independent electricity suppliers grew yesterday after BizzEnergy went into administration and its 40,000 small and medium sized business customers were "sold" for the princely sum of £87.50 each.

British Gas Business, part of Centrica, the international energy group, agreed to pay £3.5m cash for the customer base and maintain the same contract terms shortly after BizzEnergy ceased trading following the failure to attract new funding. Administrative receivers from KPMG handled the deal but 129 out of a workforce of 168 have lost their jobs.

The company is the second independent supplier to collapse in the last two weeks. Electricity4Business (E4B), another small business supplier with 40,000 customers, went into administration after failing to find fresh financial support and struggling to compete in a volatile market.

BizzEnergy, founded in 2000 and still headed by John Devaney, chairman of National Air Traffic Control Services, former chairman of Marconi, Eastern Electricity, Exel, and non-executive director of Northern Rock, claimed to be the biggest independent electricity supplier. Turnover last year topped £175m.

Ofgem, the gas and electricity regulator, is closely monitoring developments amid fears that other small suppliers will go under in a market where the "Big Six" - British Gas, EDF, RWE, E.On, Scottish & Southern and Scottish Power - have tightened their grip.

The regulator has expressed concern about the fairness of small business deals after being told many customers were unaware of contract terms covering a change of supplier. Conditions covering the roll over of contracts are being used by suppliers to lock in small customers said the regulator in a call for reforms to prevent abuses of competition.

Independent suppliers without any capacity to generate power have been at the mercy of the markets and rapidly fluctuating prices. Many small businesses attracted by three year contracts signed up for fixed price deals but their suppliers have had difficulty in finding extra sources of finance to hedge in difficult markets to renew contracts.

Customers with E4B were switched to British Gas by Ofgem without the protection provided by their contracts because E4B had been unable to find a buyer. They were placed on what British Gas maintains is a competitive rate but have the freedom to shop around for cheaper supplies.

The BizzEnergy customers have more breathing space but service advisers say some could face increases of 50pc or more as long-term contracts, struck when prices were lower, come to an end.

It is more important than ever that customers shop around and seek good advice regarding their energy supplies.

One consequence of Bizz Energy going bust is that the customer service (from British Gas!) should dramatically improve!............and also that British Gas might take action regarding the mis-selling that has been associated with the Bizz Energy brand. (type Bizz Energy complaints into google for more information)

E4B in Administration

2008-10-25T03:20:00.000-07:00

Power company in administration

Electricity prices have risen sharply this year

An electricity company which supplies 40,000 small businesses has gone into administration, the BBC has learned. A buyer was unable to be found for Electricity 4 Business (E4B), which is based in Milton Keynes, energy regulator Ofgem confirmed.

Customers will not be disconnected, but will automatically be transferred to another supplier in a process organised by the regulator.

Customers' tariffs may change, but they will be free to switch supplier.

A spokeswoman for E4B said they would not be commenting on the situation on Wednesday.
The company had 140 members of staff, of which 100 were made redundant on Wednesday. The remaining staff will stay as the business is run down.

'Unusual'
Existing measures are in place for situations such as this. This will leave thousands of small businesses looking for new deals on their energy in an extremely volatile market
Federation of Small Businesses spokesman. Ofgem will invite other suppliers to take on the business's customers before appointing a supplier.

"This situation is very unusual but not unprecedented," said Philip Cullum, deputy chief executive of watchdog Consumer Focus, formerly Energywatch. "Ofgem has robust procedures in place to make sure that that these very small businesses are not left high and dry without an energy supply." An Ofgem spokesman said that a report regarding the future for customers would be released by the end of the week.

'Cutting costs'
On its website, E4B says that it is aimed at cutting electricity costs for small and medium-sized businesses spending less than £10,000 a year on electricity. It does not produce electricity.
Its customers include a number of sole trader businesses. They will be contacted by their new supplier.

"It is disappointing that E4B is gone," said a spokesman for the Federation of Small Businesses.
"This will leave thousands of small businesses looking for new deals on their energy in an extremely volatile market. We would urge Consumer Focus to get involved immediately to ensure new deals offered to small businesses are fair." E4B signed businesses on to relatively long-term contracts which allowed them to pay in regular instalments throughout the year.
It bought electricity at wholesale prices, which have remained stubbornly high over the last year.
"The decision by the directors of E4B to place the company into administration comes as a result of volatility in the energy market," said Stuart Maddison, joint administrator and partner at PriceWaterhouseCoopers.
"We will be working closely with Ofgem to ensure an orderly wind-down of the company's activities and would like to reassure E4B's customers that the administration will not affect their supply of electricity." - (From BBC)

Some Advice from Phoenix Energy

Cancel direct debits immediately - E4B are in administration - don't pay them any more you will now get it back - let the dust settle and pay up later.
Read your electricty meter and keep a copy - you may need this later to dispute how much you owe and who to.
Beware 'the hawks' We believe that the customer database has been sold to marketing companies - customers will be bombarded with calls! - we have heard that these companies are claiming ' customers will be cut off if they don't switch to ....Energy ' - this is NOT the case. Other lies are 'that they have been appointed to help' - again a lie - BEWARE!
Get independent advice - shop around - done make any rash decisions
Phone your current broker or consultant - if you don't have one Phoenix Energy will be happy to assist - 0800 458 64 60

Phoenix Energy Business Customers

2008-10-21T13:31:00.000-07:00

At Phoenix Energy we specialise in sourcing cheap electricity and gas for our customers. We deal with most of the major energy suppliers and organise new supply contracts for all types of businesses.

Our customers cover the whole spectrum of business users, we have 'no standing charge' products for our very low users and for 'landlord supplies' and for 'void' premises. We can organise electricity supplies for 01 / 02 domestic meters and for 03 / 04 small business meters. We have alternative suppliers who specialise in 05 / 06 / 07 / 08 supplies for larger users and we can organise 00 'half hourly' billed meter supplies for industrial customers.

We can also organise gas supplies and we can cover any amount of gas from 'domestic' quantities to large industrial users.

Please contact us on 0800 458 64 60 for a free no obligation quotation or visit http://phoenixenergy.co.uk/contactus.html for full contact details.

Some of our actual customers are shown below - is your business similar to any of these?
Call us for a free quote.

Farm Hair salon / cafe

Convenience store Public House

Religion Temple Office Block

Estae Agent Enterprise Centre

Call Centres Supermarket

Restaurant Garage

Large Office Small workshop

Our customers cover all business types, from sole traders to PLCs - will bills ranging from £1 to £100000 and everything in between.

Phone 0800 458 64 60 for a free quote or to arrange an appointment.

Estimated Bills

2008-10-21T11:35:00.000-07:00

Energy bills 'often inaccurate'

Energy customer Roland Gilliam says bills are difficult to work out
Energy customers could be paying higher prices for gas and electricity used months earlier, the new watchdog Consumer Focus has warned.
The six biggest energy suppliers have raised gas and electricity prices by up to 34% since the summer.
But 16 million people could be charged a higher rate for energy used before the increase because of inaccurate estimated bills, says the group.
The Energy Retail Association denies the industry is profiteering.
Consumer Focus, which began work earlier this month, says about a third of customers will get estimated bills this quarter.
These bills will take into account energy used before the summer price rises and after, but they may not take into account the price rise.

PRICE INCREASES SINCE SUMMER
5 July - EDF EnergyGas up 22%, electricity up 17%
30 July - British GasGas up 35%, electricity up 9%
21 Aug - EonGas up 26%, electricity up 16%
21 Aug - Scottish & SouthernGas up 29.2%, electricity up 19.2%
29 Aug - Scottish PowerGas up 34%, electricity up 9%
29 Aug - NpowerGas up 26%, electricity up 14%

Ofgem urges more transparency in energy bills
This could result in a huge and possibly inaccurate catch-up bill down the line once the customer's meter is read, because the supplier will not know which units of energy were used before the price rise.
"Consumers could be paying higher prices for gas or electricity used in the past, while for companies it results in a very nice windfall," Robert Hammond, of Consumer Focus told the BBC.
Estimated bills
A colleague at the group explained that the situation would only really change when so-called "smart" meters were rolled out across the country.
These devices offer a two-way communication between the energy supplier and household, offering real-time information on gas and electricity use and giving more accurate bills.
They are currently being trialled by the energy regulator Ofgem.
In the meantime, Consumer Focus urges customers to check their bills for the letter "E" which means that the charge is estimated.
And if that is the case to take a reading of their meter and contact their supplier.
The Energy Retail Association said the industry was not profiteering from the practice but did warn customers not to rely on estimated bills.
"It's important to get a correct bill rather than an estimated bill," said Gary Felgate at the Energy Retail Association.
The best way of doing this is to take a reading of the meter on the first day of a price rise taking effect, Consumer Focus added.

For free advice on any energy related matters or information on how to read a meter or calculate a bill please contact Phoenix Energy at the e-mail address shown above or call 0800 458 64 60

Services for Polish Customers

2008-10-10T12:57:00.000-07:00

At Phoenix Energy we pride ourselves upon meeeting the needs of our customers. We have identified the fact that many Polish people living in Britain are paying far more for utilities than they need to. This is often due to the fact that they don't understand the different options available to British consumers and also that they don't speak sufficiently good English to communicate with call centres.

We have a dedicated freephone 0800 number and a Polish member of staff who can take calls in English, Polish or Russian. If you need this service please call Jadzia on 08000 833 842.

If you need more information please download our information sheet.

http://www.phoenixenergy.co.uk/phoenix.pdf

New Website

2008-10-04T12:11:00.000-07:00

The new Phoenix Energy website has now gone live. If you haven't been directed here from the site please visit my site - http://www.phoenixenergy.co.uk

The site was designed by Kevin McCourt of Colourbomb Design - please visit their website for more examples of their work. -http://www.colourbomb.co.uk

I wanted to put examples of my work on my website but Kevin wanted a more 'modern, clean, minimalist' look. I am delighted with the site and would highly recommend Kevin's work.

I intend to show photos on this blog, together with relevent news from the energy industry so please return regularly.

EDF buys British Energy

2008-09-25T22:10:00.000-07:00

Taken from BBC.

French energy firm EDF has unveiled plans to build four new nuclear reactors in the UK after it agreed to buy British Energy in a £12.5bn deal.
Subject to shareholder and regulatory approval, EDF - 85% owned by the French government - will take over British Energy's eight UK nuclear power plants.
In addition, British Gas owner Centrica said it was in talks to take 25% of the power generated by the enlarged group.

British Energy power plants generate about one sixth of UK energy supply.

A chart showing the ownership of Britain's generating industry is shown below.

Government meddling

2008-09-11T15:04:00.000-07:00

Gordon Brown has agreed a £910m package of measures with the big energy companies aimed at helping people with soaring gas and electricity bills.

It includes half price insulation for all households and a freeze on this year's bills for the poorest families.

The package includes:

Free cavity wall and loft insulation for pensioners and poor households
50% off cost of insulation for all households
Freeze on this year's bills for half a million poor consumers
Partial reversal of cut to warm front programme giving free central heating to poorest pensioners
Cold weather payments to go up from £8.50 a week to £25 a week for pensioners, disabled people and unemployed families with children under five - if temperatures drop below zero for seven consecutive days

My question for the government is - what are you doing to reduce energy prices for business users? - Nothing!

What about working people, who do not have children and people who already have taken measures to reduce their bills ?- it appears these people will be subsidising the money given to other groups and unless the energy companies foot all of the bill, will probably have to pay more!

First blog

2008-09-05T10:07:00.000-07:00

My website designer says I should have a blog. I want to put loads of information on my new website but he won't let me! - I know about utilities and energy and must confess to not knowing much about websites, so I'll bow to his superior knowledge - for now!

Until my new website becomes live you can view my mini webpage at http://www.thebestof.co.uk/newcastle/23285/1/1/the_best_of.aspx