Mixed response to proposed energy reforms

Ofgem proposals for a "simpler and fairer" energy market have drawn a mixed response from consumer groups, who say the changes "could mislead customers."

The reforms are expected to come into effect from the summer, however consumer group Watch? has said it "could mislead millions into paying over the odds for their energy."

Which? executive director Richard Lloyd said: "While these new rules will help make the market simpler and fairer it's hugely disappointing to see the regulator sticking to its fundamentally flawed idea of how energy prices should be presented.

"This will fail to help people find the best deal easily and could even mislead millions into paying over the odds for their energy.

"Energy prices are the biggest worry for consumers and our research shows overwhelmingly that people find it easier to spot the cheapest deal for them when prices are presented clearly, simply and consistently - just like on the petrol station forecourt."