AN ENERGY tariff dedicated solely to Barnsley residents has been delayed because of a ‘technical glitch’ with its website.
The council-approved Barn-sley Energy Tariff aims to provide fair, transparent and competitive prices and deals.
It was due to go live on Monday, with the council urging people to make the switch.
But a spokesman said there was a technical problem with the website, which meant the launch date had been put back.
It is estimated people who have never switched their energy supplier could be paying £300 over the odds each year with the tariff intended to offer savings to Barnsley people.
Once launched the tariff will be available for every household with a Barnsley postcode, regardless of whether residents own or rent their property.
The council plans to switch council houses on to the tariff when they become empty. This will include removing all prepayment meters and replacing them with smart meters.
Coun Roy Miller, cabinet spokesperson for place, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to be launching the Barnsley Energy Tariff and hope to see many residents making the switch over the coming months.
“With around 11,572 households currently living in fuel poverty across our borough, the launch of our own tariff provides a great opportunity to reduce these figures by helping our residents access fairer energy deals that are right for them.
“It’s really easy to fall into the trap of sticking with an existing energy provider whether that be due to convenience or fear of leaping into the great unknown.
“It’s actually estimated that 40 per cent of people nationwide have never switched supplier and could be paying around £300 per year more than they need to. With the cold months looming, not to mention the expense of Christmas, this is the perfect time for residents to make the switch, reduce energy bills and keep warm and well.”
The council has not incurred any costs in setting up the scheme which is a partnership with a not-for-profit supplier.
The council will make a small income from the tariff but it says this will be used to recover marketing costs only. Any surplus money will be placed in the Energise Barnsley community fund, for redistribution in the form of grants to other agencies in the borough to support projects tackling fuel poverty.
A council spokesman said: “The launch of the Barnsley Energy Tariff has been slightly delayed due to technical issues with the website. We have contacted everyone who has pre-registered interest and continue to encourage people to register. A new date will be announced shortly.”
For more information or to register your interest see visit barnsley.gov.uk/barnsleyenergytariff
