Ofgem to manage code of practice for energy comparison sites

Ofgem has now taken over management of a code of practice used by energy price comparison websites for households. Managed by Consumer Focus since 2008, the Confidence Code ensures that […]

Ofgem has now taken over management of a code of practice used by energy price comparison websites for households.

Managed by Consumer Focus since 2008, the Confidence Code ensures that websites accredited through the code have to make sure that prices they quote for energy deals and information given about the offers are done in a fair and unbiased way.

Using a site with the Confidence Code certification mark is expected to make the process of switching energy suppliers easier, more reliable and reassuring for consumers. The websites covered by the code act independently of the energy suppliers.

Ofgem will be reviewing the code this year to see if any improvements can be made and to ensure it supports its plans, which includes making the energy market simpler, clearer and fairer.

According to Ofgem, the transfer of management follows the Government’s review of consumer representation across a range of sectors. It decided that from April, Consumer Focus will have “less of a consumer facing role” as it restructures to become the Regulated Industries Unit (RIU) with a primary focus on the energy and postal services sectors. The RIU will work to represent the interests of consumers in these areas.

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