On Jul. 30, UK OFGEM decided to retain ban on acquisition-only tariffs.
UK OFGEM issued decision to retain the ban on acquisition-only tariffs (BAT).
Followed a statutory consultation process which took place May 14 to Jun. 12, 2024.
Ban Retained
Rules preventing energy suppliers offering lower prices exclusively to new customers will remain in place to ensure all households can access the best available deals.
Decided to keep BAT, which ensures all customers have access to the best deals.
Campaigners had warned that proposals to remove ban risked returning to an unfair market for inactive switchers (so-called loyalty penalty), damaging consumer trust.
Ban also ensures that millions of customers in debt, who may not be able to switch to a new firm for months or even years, can access a better deal with current supplier.
Effectiveness
Decided to keep BAT in place at least until its current expiration date of Mar. 31, 2025.
Will shortly issue a call for input on merits of retaining BAT in some form beyond 2025.
