Electricity ready for switch to free market
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Britain's regional electricity companies have all assured industry regulator Professor Stephen Littlechild that they will be fully equipped to deal with the opening up of the domestic market to competition from April 1998, writes Ian Griffiths.
Despite the universal commitment to meet the target, there are still marked differences in companies' preparedness for full-blown competition.
Some regional electricity companies argue that the complexities of opening the market and potential pitfalls for consumers will undermine the project's effectiveness.
Professor Littlechild has made it clear he is determined to force markets open in what he regards as a landmark objective of improved competition in the post-privatisation climate.
From 1 April 1998 the country's 22 million domestic electricity consumers will be able to shop around for electricity from whichever supplier they choose.
The trial introduction of competition in the domestic gas market has brought price reductions of up to 20 per cent for consumers. The saving is expected to be less for electricity customers. Professor Littlechildis monitoring the gas experiments closely. He is acutely aware of the problems that can arise, notably through mis-selling, technology and "cherry picking" of more affluent and profitable customers.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments