New proposals to expand support from Energy Ombudsman to
cover small businesses with fewer than 50 employees
Move would boost protection, offer an alternative to
costly court fees, and resolve disputes quicker
Follows survey finding 94% of total respondents supported
the move
More than 200,000 businesses could for the first time get access
to specialist support for disputes with their energy supplier,
under plans announced today (Thursday 7 December).
Under new proposals, companies with up to 50 employees would
qualify for support from the Energy Ombudsman – with issues
ranging from disputes over bills and energy supply, to how an
energy product or service has been sold, or wider customer
service issues.
Currently, this support is only available to businesses of up to
10 employees, and households.
Making this move will enable these companies to settle disputes
with their energy supplier without facing costly court fees –
ultimately saving them money.
It follows a survey conducted by regulator Ofgem, which found
that 94% of the total respondents, which included businesses
organisations, consumer groups, and suppliers, said they would
welcome this move.
Minister for Energy Consumers and Affordability said:
“This government has always stood by businesses, and we want to
ensure they are getting proper support and service in dealing
with energy suppliers.
“That’s why we’re proposing expanding the reach of the Energy
Ombudsman to cover an extra 200,000 businesses, allowing them to
access free, impartial advice and resolve issues with their
supplier without the need for an expensive trip to court.”
The consultation can be found here and will be live until
Wednesday 31 January 2024.
Notes to editors
- The consultation can be read in tandem with Ofgem’s
non-domestic market review statutory consultation which can be
found here. Their proposed
changes to specific rules for non-domestic suppliers will
provide better support for business customers and drive-up
standards.
