switching energy suppliers

[camtt]

Our energy fix ends this month and I am looking for a new supplier, or at least new price plan. I've looked on a comparison website. The suppliers that seem to offer the biggest advantage over my current supplier are companies I haven't heard of. Would I be stupid to stick with my current supplier (they have a tariff which is now cheaper than the one I am on but it's about 4th in the list) just because they are a fairly well known company (edf) and I am used to their online system?

How much would you save by switching? If it's not much, then there is no harm in sticking with the devil you know.

There is, however, nothing to worry about with the smaller companies. They are slightly cheaper as they don't have the same government obligations to fulfil (they have a small supplier exemption) - But crucially this does not affect their ability to supply you or their financial credentials. (I can't remember all the small suppliers - smartest, ovo, good energy, ecotricity are a few that spring to mind)

When do paring prices though, cheapest isn't necessarily best as you may want to a fixed price deal which will be slightly more expensive now, but you are betting on prices going up.

there can be quite a lot to worry about with the smaller companies. For instance, be very careful with Spark Energy who make you pay in advance and make it very difficult to escape. Ofgem investigation underway.

first utility also have a very bad rep.

the small companies don't generate, so lower costs. So they are just overheads.

how do I know? Had a battle with my letting agents NOT to change the property to Spark because it would be huge hassle for me and the tenants.

of course no guarantee on the big companies - npower's IT situation is interesting...

thanks special subject and santa. I can save a max of about 80 quid over the year, versus a saving of 30 if I stick with current supplier. First utility was one of the cheapest, either first or second place, can't remember exactly which. I still have a couple of weeks to arrange it, so will ruminate further!