On 24/02/2021 09:20, Chris Green wrote:
alan_m wrote:
On 24/02/2021 00:32, Dave Plowman (News) wrote:


Isn't the problem that the OAP needs a paper bill. As some suppliers are
now paperless how does flipper stop switching to suppliers who don't
offer a paper bill.

Dunno. A bill is a bit pointless since you're paying monthly by DD.


Isn't the biggest complaint about energy companies that the DD doesn't
truly represent the usage? Few companies vary the DD each month based on
a meter reading. For some customers it may not even be the preferred
method of billing with low bills in the summer and much higher bills in
winter, with some wanting to even out the charges. Many companies take
a fixed amount each month which can lead at the end of a period/year to
the customer being in credit or debit by a large amount. Without a bill
it is impossible to even establish if the DD is realistic, especially if
energy usage changes year to year as a result of home insulation
improvements or illness where often more heat is required for someone
who is not active.

DD doesn't have to be a fixed amount, though the energy companies
might make you think so. It would be perfectly feasible to pay the
exact amount each month.

That has certainly been one of the payment options on occasions where I
have switched. I prefer to even it out by a fixed payment through the
year though - although I often do have to kick back attempts during the
winter months, by them, to raise the payment - and it has always come
out very close to the right figure by the end of the year.