Consumer confusion, distrust over supplier tariff offers

Many consumers are feeling confused about electricity tariff comparisons and how to go about determining the best supplier deals available in the market, a considerable number of enquiries expressed by energypress readers has indicated.

The confusion of consumers amid the energy crisis appears to have abounded despite the government’s recently introduced simplified system, through which suppliers announce the forthcoming month’s tariffs on a monthly basis. The net price for consumers results once state electricity subsidies have been subtracted.

Common questions asked by consumers include whether they should be on the constant lookout for lower-priced electricity offers, given the monthly tariff announcements by suppliers, which can fluctuate from month to month.

Consumers are also expressing insecurity as to where they should look for finalized, guaranteed price offers of suppliers, once the government’s subsidies have been deducted.

A price-comparison tool introduced by RAE, the Regulatory Authority for Energy, for this purpose does not appear to have convinced some consumers, or helped clarify the market picture for them, even though many consumers are aware of the tool’s existence and are using it.