CITIZENS Advice analysis shows expensive doesn’t always mean good and cheap doesn’t always mean bad. Of the 20 cheapest deals with energy suppliers, only five tariffs are with suppliers in the bottom third of the star rating table, whereas 10 tariffs are with suppliers in the top third.

With the energy price cap set to increase by £96 to £1,138 for default tariff customers, the charity is encouraging people to consider switching suppliers to get a better deal. Doing so could save an average household up to £200 a year and secure a supplier with better customer service.

Citizens Advice research shows that nearly a quarter of energy customers - equivalent to over six million households - are worried they’ll struggle to pay their energy bills because of the pandemic.

With bigger winter bills arriving in the coming weeks for many customers, it’s critical that people are able to easily access support from their supplier. The charity is calling on poor performers in the star rating table to improve their customer service - including tackling billing errors and difficulty in contacting suppliers.

At a time when so many people are facing job losses and financial trouble, it’s unacceptable that energy bills are another source of stress.

With the rise in the energy price cap, many will have to pay more and rightly expect a decent service. Suppliers must step up to give their customers what they deserve.

Everyone should consider whether they are getting value for money from their supplier - paying more doesn’t always mean you will receive a better service. Don’t put up with it if it’s not good enough. Shop around if you can.

Alistair Cromwell

Acting Chief Executive of Citizens Advice