Engaging with suppliers and industry
The EHU works to bring about change in the industry for the benefit of consumers. We see the impact of suppliers’ practices on their customers first-hand. This allows us to contribute to industry consultations with real-life examples and influence stakeholders across the energy industry.
The EHU and Citizens Advice Consumer Service host a quarterly supplier liaison meeting with representatives from energy companies and key stakeholders including Advice Direct Scotland, the Energy Ombudsman, Ofgem and Citizens Advice energy policy research teams. This provides industry with an opportunity to share trends and best practice with one another on supporting vulnerable consumers and explore themes for example mental health.
We have an ongoing dialogue with Ofgem's compliance and enforcement teams through our participation in the Tripartite process (see diagram below or download PDF version) with Citizens Advice and the Energy Ombudsman, as well as fortnightly meetings to discuss more immediate concerns or requests for data.
Extra Help Unit casework evidence has fed into Ofgem consultations and compliance activity. For more details please see our 'Latest Work'.