Advice on switching - is fixed rate the best way to go?

hlhassall

I'm normally fairly ok at moneysaving things but I have to say the whole energy switching thing is getting me a bit confused.

When I look at the comparison sites there are quite a few companies that come out fairly similar and I'm not sure how to decide and whether to look at the actual cost per kwh if that's a better way.

The other thing is whether to go for a fixed rate as Scottish Power have rates fixed until 2011 in one deal but this is obviously a bit more expensive. Any thoughts on whether this is a good deal in the longer term although obviously will be paying more now than the best rate?

Thanks for any help.

Ken68

Don't see how the consumer can stay ahead of the game when it comes to forecasting. The energy providers have whole departments employed to keep tabs on the wholesale and retail prices, probably on an hourly basis.
Scottish Power will be buying ahead, they already KNOW what 2011 prices are.
Better for the customer to aim to insulate more, reduce consumption and be on the lowest existing tariff.

mute_posting

I agree that it is deliberately confusing.

The "No standing charges" tarrifs are a bit of a red herring (IMHO) unless each quarter you use less than the "first XXX units" quota.

Why can't the companies just be straight about things? Because they make money from people being slightly confused!