With energy bills soaring and the economy in a sharp decline, the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) is urging OFGEM, the energy regulator, to ensure that their current probe into the energy industry addresses a number of serious flaws in the way energy companies deal with businesses.

Furthermore, with the consumer champion Energywatch set to be amalgamated along with several other consumer groups from October 1, the BCC is calling for a new, independent and dedicated watchdog to be established, which is specifically focused on the energy concerns and needs of business. Energywatch analysis shows that they receive 32,000 calls from businesses seeking help and advice every year. A new and dedicated business watchdog would ensure that this vital service is not lost in the creation of a single consumer group covering a range of industries.


Commenting on the lack of adequate protection for businesses using energy suppliers, Director General of the BCC, David Frost, said: "With the economy slowing and energy bills on the rise, it is totally unacceptable that hard pressed businesses are left so open to exploitation by energy suppliers. OFGEM's investigation into the industry must hold the suppliers to account over the very apparent lack of transparency and fairness in their dealings with business.

"Energywatch is currently providing a crucial service to thousands of businesses who are confused and frustrated by energy suppliers. If a 'super consumer group' is to be established, as the Government plans, there is little doubt in my mind that this service will be all but lost, leaving companies at the mercy of the suppliers. An obvious solution would be establishing a separate watchdog, dedicated to assisting businesses."

(CD/JM)