Standing Charges

EssexHebridean

Until relatively recently we were on a zero S/C tariff for gas - we only use gas for cooking, and used to have a direct debit set at £2 per month. Always knew it was going to be a limited lifespan thing though realistically, and now we are paying £7.50 a month. Realistically when the current cooker needs replacement we'll be looking to switch to electric - and if things keep increasing we may end up cutting our losses and doing that before it technically "needs" replacing too. Low-users are already at a massive disadvantage when it comes to even getting a supply though as so few people are willing to even quote for supply. I looked again yesterday just out of interest, via the MSE Cheap energy club, and based on wanting at least "good" customer service, there were only two options. 

Effician

StephanA said:

 but hiking up the standing charge (presumably to recoup the profits they would otherwise make) ....is just taking very unfair advantage ... Has anyone else had their bills unsuspectingly stacked in this way?

I'm thinking this should have read ----  i was very lucky to get a rate this cheap, unfortunately it's ending.

MWT

Effician said:

StephanA said:

 but hiking up the standing charge (presumably to recoup the profits they would otherwise make) ....is just taking very unfair advantage ... Has anyone else had their bills unsuspectingly stacked in this way?

I'm thinking this should have read ----  i was very lucky to get a rate this cheap, unfortunately it's ending.

Agreed, for a lot of people who look once a year, switch or don't switch then don't look again for another year, the current prices are a great shock.

... but if people had been following the changes in tariffs over the last year there has been plenty of notice of what was to come...