Energy expert stresses importance of checking price breakdown when choosing a fixed deal
- It is worth looking for a cheap fixed energy deal which won’t change with the price cap
- But Citizens Advice South Gloucestershire’s energy expert Marion Straker has warned people to check the price breakdown on fixed deals – and also to cut down on gas usage to make the best savings
- The charity is available for free energy price comparison calls – people can sign up here or leave a message on 01454 334961, stating they want to be signed up for an energy appointment
Anyone looking to fix their energy deal should check the price breakdowns on cheap deals rather than the headline figure – and reduce gas usage.
This is the opinion of Citizens Advice South Gloucestershire’s energy expert Marion Straker, who regularly advises people on energy issues and helps them choose the best energy tariffs.
It’s important for gas users to be aware of these points in order to make the best savings possible at a time when energy prices are going up.
The energy price cap rose by 13% on 1st July – and the main driver for this increase was the wholesale cost of gas due to the conflict in the Middle East.
It’s possible to get a fixed energy deal and avoid being bound by the price cap. A fixed deal means your tariff will stay the same for the duration of your plan length.
But Marion has warned gas users to check the price breakdown – including the cost of gas – in fixed energy deals as customers who use more gas will not see as much of a saving as the deal may suggest.
And a key point is to cut down on gas usage – for instance by using cold water instead of hot water where possible.
Speak with Marion for help with fixed deals
Marion is available for energy tariff price comparison calls – where customers will be able to find out what the best deal is for them.
Anyone interested can sign up on our webform here or by leaving a message on 01454 334961 – stating they want to be signed up for an energy appointment.
Marion said: “A lot of headline savings on fixed deals are because providers are cutting the price of electricity whilst increasing the price for gas. Other savings are in the standing charges – they can vary by as much as 40p a day.
“If people are investigating the best deal to switch, they should compare the price breakdown – and it is cutting down on gas usage where they are going to be able to save money.
“The picture is further complicated by all the cheap electricity offers that are around (due to the rise in renewables) so for those with the time and smart meters, I would advise them to take advantage of clever deals and avoid using any gas in all this hot weather.
“Fixing is still a recommended option even after prices go up. People will have already been told their bills are going to rise so there is no reason why they shouldn’t be still looking around. And the prediction is still that the prices will rise again in October.
“The deals are changing all the time so it is worth people having an appointment with me.”
Published 13/07/26
