CHAMBER TAKES FEAR FACTOR OUT OF SWITCHING ENERGY SUPPLIERS

The Chamber of Commerce East Lancashire is helping local businesses to take the fear factor out of switching energy suppliers.

Says Stewart Maloney Commercial Director "Many local businesses are reluctant to shop around on their energy and are missing out on potential savings because of a fear of sharp practice in the industry. This is borne out by a ten-fold rise in complaints of mis-selling received by Energywatch, the gas and electricity watchdog, during the past year.

"Our Chamber Energy service, delivered in partnership with independent energy management company Utility Auditing Ltd, can help companies find the most competitively priced contract on gas and electricity, without any fear of being ripped off. What's more the service is completely free, so they have nothing to lose in testing it out."

According to Energywatch, businesses enjoy less consumer protection than domestic customers and thousands of small firms are finding themselves with account, billing and transfer problems.

Chamber Energy offers impartial advice and expert support in identifying the best energy deals and ensuring that companies have the right tariffs and supply capacity for their needs. On-site energy audits are also available to help firms reduce consumption.

On average, local companies are saving an average 20% on gas and electricity costs by using the Chamber service. A free water supply evaluation service is also available, which can help businesses recover money if overcharging has occurred during the past six years.

Adds Stewart Maloney "It is imperative that businesses continually cut their costs. Saving money on energy is one of the easiest and most dramatic ways in which a company can reduce its overheads. They can do so with complete peace of mind when they use the Chamber service."

For more information contact the Commercial Team on 01254 356400

PREPARE FOR BIG RISE IN ELECTRICITY COSTS WARNS CHAMBER

Following the huge increases in employers liability insurance, companies should be prepared for big rises in electricity costs, warns the Chamber of Commerce East Lancashire..

According to the Chamber's Commercial Director Stewart Maloney: "The demand for electricity is outstripping supply and prices have risen by as much as 30 per cent over the last 12 months. Many companies will soon be getting their October renewal offers and will, potentially, get a nasty surprise when they see the bottom line."

The Chamber is urging local businesses to contact the Chambers Commercial team, who should be able to help companies mitigate the problem.

Through its partnership with independent energy managers Utility Auditing Ltd, the Chamber is able to offer companies free analysis of their gas and electricity bills. Utility Auditing can use its national negotiating power on behalf of over 60 UK Chambers and trade associations to find the best prices available anywhere in the country.

Adds Stewart Maloney: "When companies receive their renewal offers, they will be given a very brief opportunity to cancel their existing contract. It is vital that they act quickly to find a better deal."

To find out more about the free Chamber Utility Auditing service, contact The Chamber Commercial team on 01254 356400.