A crowdfunding couple trying to take on the Big Six energy suppliers have launched with 4,500 customers.

Called People’s Energy, the new customer-owned entrant to the market raised nearly half a million pounds and aims to provide what it calls an ethical alternative to existing suppliers.

With only one tariff and 100% renewable electricity, the firm claims it will give 75% of profits back to its customers and will involve them in salaries, decisions, accounts and prices.

Founders David Pike and Karin Sode say they became so fed up with existing UK energy firms that they decided to do something about it.

They aim to hit one million customers by 2024.

Mr Pike said: “We want to create not just a different kind of energy company but an entirely different approach to services that put people squarely at the centre.

“Energy belongs to no one, we all need this resource and all should benefit from it, not just a few greedy shareholders.”