MP, Labour’s Shadow Energy
Minister, responding to the government announcing
an agreement between Bulb and Octopus Energy, said:
“This is a further reminder of this Conservative government’s
abject failure when it comes to regulation of energy. And the
British people are once again paying the price.
“The government needs to come clean about how much the collapse
of Bulb has cost people in higher bills; what this sale will add
to that tally; and how they have concluded that this deal
represents value for taxpayer’s money.
“Billions has already been added to consumer bills from 32
companies going bust. The Conservatives can’t shirk
responsibility when the UK is the only country in the world where
this has happened.
“Only Labour can fix Britain's broken energy system, starting
with our national sprint for clean power by 2030 to make Britain
a global energy superpower.”
Rocio Concha, Which? Director of Policy and Advocacy,
said:
"Bulb customers will understandably be anxious to
work out what moving to a new company means for them, however
there is no need to panic. Your gas and electricity won't be cut
off and your credit will be protected. It usually takes a few
weeks for customers to be transferred and your new supplier will
get in touch to tell you about your new tariff, how payments will
work and how you'll get any credit back.
"As you wait to hear more, take a meter reading so your
account is up to date, make a note of any credit you've built up
and don't switch suppliers - this can make it trickier to
transfer you and pay back any money you're owed.
"While it appears this deal could mean smaller losses for
taxpayers, the government should ensure consumer bills do
not have costs added to them in the long run as
a result of Bulb's collapse."
Notes
UK government approves agreement
between Bulb and Octopus Energy, providing certainty to 1.5
million customers
