THE ASSEMBLY member for Penarth has drawn attention to the thousands of local residents who could be losing out on their energy bills.

Vaughan Gething, who is also the deputy health minister, wants people in the town to consider switching tariffs to save money.

Research published by energy regulator Ofgem shows that up to 68 per cent of customers in Penarth who move from a standard tariff to a fixed tariff could save around £327.

Around 886,000 households in Wales are likely to still be on standard tariffs and could be better off moving to a fixed deal.

Ofgem’s research also found that the majority of the cheapest tariffs were fixed with some deals at around £792 per year, compared to £1,119 for the average standard variable tariff with one of the larger suppliers.

Ofgem chief executive Dermot Nolan said: “Ofgem’s research shows that many customers in Wales now could be better off to the tune of around £327 by moving from a variable rate to a fixed rate deal.

“Nearly half of all consumers switching are now moving to independent suppliers and not only are consumers benefitting from greater choice of supplier, but Ofgem has strengthened consumer protection for those choosing fixed tariffs.

“So there has never been a better time to go energy shopping and our Be An Energy Shopper website gives you independent advice on how to get a better energy deal and links to Ofgem-accredited switching sites.”

Mr Gething AM said: “I would encourage all my constituents to go energy shopping this winter.

“It’s now easier than ever to find the best deal and you could save up to £327 a year just by switching from a standard tariff to a fixed deal.”