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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Business
Anna Tims

Big five UK energy companies turning away new customers

Ofgem British Gas EDF ScottishPower Eon
Close up of an energy bill breakdown
Ofgem, the energy industry regulator, says suppliers are obliged to accept new customers as a condition of their licence. Photograph: Rosemary Roberts/Alamy

Householders in Britain who want to sign up to a new energy company are apparently being obstructed by the largest suppliers, in potential breach of their licence obligations.

The “big five” energy companies are informing those who apply online for a tariff that they should remain with their current supplier because of the volatile energy market. According to the industry regulator, Ofgem, suppliers are obliged to accept new customers as a condition of their licence.

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