Wednesday 4th July 2007
Citizens of the European Union (EU) could help to increase competition between utilities providers by switching their supplier, it has been claimed.
The European Commission (EC) states that an increase in the number of consumers switching supplier could help to create a competitive market in the near future.
Competition is expected to increase in the coming months as, from July 1st, EU residents are legally entitled to a wider choice of utilities provider.
July 1st, 2007, was the deadline for European citizens to be allowed to freely choose their provider, EC guidance reveals.
Commissioner Andris Piebalgs stresses the need for consumers to take their part in forcing utility companies to respond to the introduction of the new requirements.
"I encourage European consumers to take advantage of their freedom to choose their energy suppliers," Commissioner Piebalgs explains.
"A functioning EU energy market can only be obtained if consumers participate in the market actively."
The EC adds that the new legislation entitles consumers to take full advantage of the benefits offered by a variety of different companies.
By switching provider, the commission insists that citizens may not only receive lower prices, but also help to protect the environment by lending support to renewable energy sources.
However, concerns are expressed that vulnerable inhabitants of the EU could become victims of the new system if suitable assistance is not provided to help them to benefit from the rules.
"Because of their reduced mobility or their considerably low income, they are considered more susceptible," the EC warns.
As such, a range of additional protection is suggested for those deemed to be at most risk of experiencing a detrimental effect.
The commission includes the potential for further reduced tariffs to be provided to the most vulnerable citizens.
"Sufficient warmth" to ensure that EU inhabitants remain healthy and comfortable is also cited as an essential component of the protection to be offered.
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