Energy Supplers

[BJS]

I have the option via Martin Lewis's Energy Club to do a Big Switch to either EDF or OCTOPUS S. Does any one have any experienceof being a customer of either of these 2. Ihave only been a customer of British Gas in my 50yrs plus of being supplied. Thanks for any help.

[bhg481]

I changed to Octopus a few months ago after falling out with EDF. They're rated very highly for customer service, although I've had no reason to test the rating. Switching was easy - the only thing you might not like is that you effectively pay in advance ie, you start by giving them one month's payment before you are switched and then move onto your direct debit. Tey say it's just to give them a buffer in case your DD is wrong. I'm on a direct debit, paid monthly,but they ask me to read the meter each month - no great hardship and, if I don't, they just send me an estimated bill (for interest only). I've got no hesitation in recommending them from the little experience I've had so far.

[chrissa1]

I’ve switched suppliers three times in the last 6 years. I always got a better deal.
I’ve never dealt with Octopus but have never regretted switching.

Unlike bhg, I’ve never been asked to pay anything upfront and they have always taken the dd as the first payment. If you have given accurate figures of your last year’s usage to Octopus they should be able to accurately work out what you should pay each month.

I Always, send meter readings each month.

[Old_Geezer]

I'd, personally, not like DD in the first place.

[New Judge]

"I'd, personally, not like DD in the first place."

Then you'd have to enjoy paying a bit extra, OG. Virtually all suppliers offer a discount for paying by DD.

[Hopkirk]

OG, you sound like an old geezer.

[chrissa1]

O_G, direct debits were available long before the internet age. They simply make sure that you never forget to pay a vital bill each month. And, as NJ said, you get a discount for having one.

It makes economic sense.

[emmie]

I am with EDF and they aren't too bad, you don't get call centres in India for a start, where it can be hard to understand the person. They have been fair with me so far and my bills haven't got up by much, year on year.
I am a light user of gas/electric at any rate. I would recommend them if that is what you are asking.